Becoming a welder in Davenport, IA, typically begins with a technical school program or apprenticeship, which combines hands-on experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to gain practical skills while earning. Apprenticeships last about 6 to 18 months, requiring many hours of training under licensed professionals. According to the American Welding Society, there are approximately 402,333 welders employed throughout the United States, with about 9,463 active job openings at any given time. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects steady growth in the welding sector, with estimates ranging from 2% to 3% depending on the specific timeframe analyzed. Welders in Davenport, IA, can expect to earn an average of $1,200 per week, with experienced professionals often surpassing $50,000 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.
