Becoming a welder typically starts with a technical school program or apprenticeship, which combines hands-on experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships last about 6 to 18 months, requiring many hours of training under licensed professionals. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports 402,333 welders nationwide, with projections showing a 2% to 3% job growth from 2025 to 2029. Apprentices earn an average of $411.50 per week in Alice, TX, with an annual overtime average of $21,300. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like AWS help aspiring welders find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $60,000 annually for experienced professionals.
