Becoming a welder typically starts with a technical school program or apprenticeship, which combines hands-on experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships last about 6 to 18 months, depending on the program. The American Welding Society reports 771,000 welders nationwide, with 402,333 employed and 9,463 active job openings at any given time. In Cordele, GA, welders can earn an average of $1,500 per week, with experienced professionals often exceeding $54,000 annually. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like AWS help aspiring welders find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential and diverse specialization options across various industries.
