Becoming a welder in Greenfield, MA, typically begins with an apprenticeship, combining hands-on experience and classroom learning, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships last about four to five years, requiring many hours of training under a licensed professional. According to the American Welding Society, there are approximately 402,333 welders nationwide, with a median annual wage of $45,190 or $20.25 per hour. In Greenfield, MA, the average weekly wage for welders is approximately $1,600, reflecting a strong earning potential that can often exceed $108,000 annually for experienced professionals. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like Gild help aspiring welders find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a rewarding career in a field with steady demand and growth opportunities.