Embarking on a career as a pipefitter in State College, PA, typically begins with an apprenticeship that blends hands-on experience with classroom instruction, enabling individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships generally span four to five years, involving extensive on-the-job training under seasoned professionals. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are 89,141 pipefitters nationwide, with a median annual wage of $61,550. In State College, PA, pipefitters earn an average weekly wage of approximately $1,000, with experienced professionals often earning over $120,000 annually. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like Gild assist aspiring pipefitters in finding apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a lucrative career with strong earning potential.
