Becoming a welder typically starts with an apprenticeship, which combines hands-on experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships in Jonesboro, AR, last about four to five years, requiring many hours of training under licensed professionals. The American Welding Society reports approximately 771,000 welders nationwide, with a significant presence in Jonesboro, AR, and projects a steady job growth from 2022 to 2029. Apprentices in Jonesboro earn an average of $500 per week, with an annual overtime average of $26,000. 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.
