Becoming a welder typically starts with technical training or an apprenticeship, which combines hands-on experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships last about 6 to 18 months, depending on the program. The American Welding Society projects 320,500 new welding professionals will be needed by 2029, with approximately 80,000 positions requiring annual fulfillment. In Pendleton, OR, welders earn an average of $1,200 per week, with experienced professionals often exceeding $1,500 weekly. 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.
