Becoming a welder in Lubbock, TX, 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 median annual wage of $45,190, and projects a 2-3% growth in the welding sector. Apprentices earn an average of $65 per hour in Lubbock, with an annual overtime average of $3,384. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like Gild help aspiring welders find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $108,000 annually for experienced professionals.
