Embarking on a career as a welder in Portland, OR, often begins with an apprenticeship, blending hands-on experience with technical training, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships typically last about four to five years, requiring extensive training under experienced professionals. According to the American Welding Society, there are approximately 221,718 welders in Portland, with an average weekly wage of $117.50 for apprentices, rising to $544 for experienced professionals. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like WelderUp help aspiring welders find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $45,000 annually for experienced professionals.
