Becoming a welder in Kingston, NY, typically begins with an apprenticeship, combining hands-on experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships last about four to five years, requiring many hours of training under licensed professionals. According to the American Welding Society (AWS), 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% annually. Apprentices in New York earn an average of $500 per week, with experienced welders often exceeding $108,000 annually. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like AWS help aspiring welders find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential.
