Becoming a welder in Alexandria, VA, typically begins with an apprenticeship, combining 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. According to the American Welding Society, there are approximately 771,000 welding professionals in the U.S., with projections indicating a 2-3% growth in the welding sector. In Alexandria, VA, welders earn an average of $247.75 per week, with experienced professionals often exceeding $1,288.08 weekly. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like AWS help aspiring welders find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential.
