Becoming a welder in Clearwater, FL, typically begins with an apprenticeship, combining hands-on experience with technical training, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships last about four years, requiring extensive training under licensed professionals. According to the American Welding Society, there are approximately 771,000 welding professionals nationwide, with a median annual salary of $45,190. In Clearwater, the average weekly wage for welders is approximately $1,560, with experienced professionals earning up to $2,300 weekly. Trade schools, welding unions, and platforms like AWS offer apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential and diverse specialization options.
