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. According to the American Welding Society, there are currently over 402,333 welders employed throughout the United States, with approximately 9,463 active job openings at any given time. In Batesville, AR, welders can expect to earn an average of $1,000 per week, with experienced professionals often exceeding $50,000 annually. Trade schools, community colleges, and platforms like AWS help aspiring welders find training opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential and diverse specialization options.
