Becoming a pipefitter in Portland, WA, typically begins with an apprenticeship that combines hands-on experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships last about four to five years, requiring many hours of training under licensed professionals. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports 89,141 pipefitters nationwide, with approximately 3,000 in Oregon, and projects a 6% job growth from 2022 to 2032. Apprentices earn an average of $1,191 per week in Portland, with an annual overtime average of $4,848. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like Gild help aspiring pipefitters find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $61,550 annually for experienced professionals.
