Becoming a welder in Peru, IN, typically begins with an apprenticeship, combining hands-on experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships last about four to five years, requiring many hours of training under licensed professionals. According to the American Welding Society, there are approximately 402,333 welders nationwide, with a significant number in Indiana, and the industry projects a 2-3% job growth annually. Apprentices earn an average of $580 per week in Indiana, with an annual overtime average of $4,800. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like AWS help aspiring welders find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $80,000 annually for experienced professionals.
