Becoming a welder typically starts with technical training, which combines hands-on experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Training programs last about 6 to 18 months, requiring many hours of training under experienced welders. The American Welding Society reports approximately 771,000 welders nationwide, with a significant demand for new welders in Forrest City, AR, driven by infrastructure development and manufacturing growth. Welders in Forrest City, AR, earn an average of $1,900 per week, with experienced professionals often exceeding $56,000 annually. Trade schools, community colleges, and platforms like the AWS Foundation help aspiring welders find training opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential and diverse specialization options.
