Becoming a welder in Odessa, TX, often begins with a technical school program or apprenticeship, combining hands-on experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. According to the American Welding Society, the welding industry needs approximately 320,500 new welding professionals by 2029, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports over 402,333 welders nationwide. In Odessa, welders can earn an average of $1,070 per week, with experienced professionals potentially earning over $121,000 annually. Trade schools, community colleges, and industry programs offer pathways to apprenticeships, leading to a career with strong earning potential and diverse job opportunities across manufacturing, construction, and infrastructure sectors.
