Becoming a welder in Mount Vernon, IL, typically begins with technical training, which can range from 6 months to 2 years, providing the necessary skills for this skilled trade. According to the American Welding Society, the welding industry is expected to see a significant demand for 320,500 new welding professionals by 2029, with about 80,000 positions needing to be filled annually between 2025 and 2029. In Mount Vernon, IL, welders can earn an average wage of $1,200 per week, with experienced professionals often surpassing $55,000 annually. Training programs through technical schools and community colleges, along with support from organizations like the AWS Foundation, offer pathways to this lucrative and in-demand career.
