Becoming a welder typically starts with technical training, which combines hands-on experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Training programs last about 6 to 18 months, with the most efficient entry path being technical school training. The American Welding Society projects 320,500 new welding professionals will be needed by 2029, with approximately 80,000 positions requiring annual fulfillment between 2025 and 2029. Welders in Manhattan, KS, earn an average of $222.25 per week, with the potential to exceed $45,000 annually for experienced professionals. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like AWS help aspiring welders find training opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential and diverse specialization options.
