Becoming a welder in Chesapeake, NC, typically begins with a technical training program or apprenticeship, combining hands-on experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. The American Welding Society projects a significant demand for 320,500 new welding professionals by 2029, with about 80,000 positions requiring annual fulfillment between 2025 and 2029. In Chesapeake, NC, welders earn an average of $1,070 per week, with experienced professionals often exceeding $4,300 annually. Trade schools, welding associations, and platforms like AWS help aspiring welders find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential and diverse specialization options.
