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, requiring many hours of training under licensed professionals. The American Welding Society reports approximately 771,000 welders nationwide, with projections indicating a significant demand for new professionals by 2029. Apprentices earn an average of $50 per hour in Corinth, MS, with an annual overtime average of $12,000. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like AWS help aspiring welders find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $80,000 annually for experienced professionals.
