Becoming a welder typically starts with technical training, which combines hands-on experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to gain practical skills quickly. Training programs last about 6 to 18 months, depending on the depth of specialization. According to the American Welding Society, there are approximately 402,333 welders nationwide, with projections indicating a need for 320,500 new welding professionals by 2029. In Reading, PA, welders earn an average of $1,377 per week, with experienced professionals often exceeding $100,000 annually. Trade schools, community colleges, and apprenticeships offer pathways to this lucrative career, which is in high demand across various industries, including manufacturing and infrastructure development.
