Becoming a welder typically starts with technical training, which can range from 6 months to 2 years, providing hands-on skills and preparing individuals for industry certifications. According to the American Welding Society, there are approximately 771,000 welding professionals in the U.S., with projections indicating a need for 320,500 new welders by 2029. In Oklahoma City, the average weekly wage for welders is approximately $1,280, with experienced welders earning up to $1,700 per week. Trade schools, community colleges, and welding associations offer training programs, leading to a career with strong earning potential and diverse specialization opportunities across industries such as construction, manufacturing, and energy.
