Becoming a welder in Bloomington, IL, typically begins with technical training, which can range from 6 months to 2 years, providing hands-on experience and classroom learning. According to the American Welding Society (AWS), the welding industry is experiencing significant growth, with approximately 320,500 new welding professionals needed by 2029. In Illinois, welders earn an average of $1,500 per week, with experienced professionals often surpassing $54,000 annually. Trade schools, community colleges, and welding associations offer apprenticeships and training programs, leading to a career with strong earning potential and diverse specialization opportunities.
