Becoming a welder typically starts with technical training, which combines hands-on experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Training programs last about 6 to 18 months, requiring many hours of training under experienced professionals. The American Welding Society reports 771,000 welders nationwide, with projections of 320,500 new welding professionals needed by 2029. Welders in Arlington, VA, earn an average of $1,000 per week, with an annual overtime average of $48,000. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like AWS help aspiring welders find training opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $80,000 annually for experienced professionals.
