Becoming a welder in Atlanta, GA, typically begins with an apprenticeship, combining hands-on experience with classroom learning and 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 402,333 welders nationwide, with approximately 12,090 in Atlanta, and projects a 2-3% job growth from 2022 to 2032. Apprentices earn an average of $122.51 per week in Atlanta, with an annual overtime average of $4,820. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like Gild help aspiring welders find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $108,000 annually for experienced professionals.
