Becoming a welder typically starts with technical training or an apprenticeship, which combines 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. In Durham, NC, welders can earn an average of $149.43 per week, with a median annual salary of approximately $45,190. Trade schools, community colleges, and platforms like the AWS Foundation offer various training programs, leading to a career with strong earning potential, often exceeding $108,000 annually for experienced professionals.
