Becoming a welder in Lima, OH, 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. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports 402,333 welders nationwide, with a significant presence in Ohio, and projects a 2-3% job growth from 2024 to 2029. Apprentices earn an average of $580 per week in Ohio, with an annual overtime average of $4,800. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like Gild help aspiring welders find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $80,000 annually for experienced professionals.
