Becoming a welder typically starts with technical training, which can range from 6 to 18 months, providing hands-on experience and preparing individuals for certification exams. According to the American Welding Society, there are approximately 402,333 welders employed throughout the United States, with a median annual salary of $45,190. In Knoxville, TN, the average welder earns about $1,800 per week. Trade schools, community colleges, and apprenticeships offer pathways to enter this skilled trade, leading to a career with strong earning potential and diverse specialization opportunities, such as underwater welding or industrial fabrication, often exceeding $100,000 annually for experienced professionals.
