Becoming a welder in Lexington, NE, typically begins with an apprenticeship that combines 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, there are approximately 402,333 welders nationwide, with projections indicating a significant demand for 320,500 new welding professionals by 2029. In Lexington, NE, welders can expect to earn a competitive wage, with an average of $1,200 per week. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like Gild help aspiring welders find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential and diverse specialization options.