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, requiring many hours of training under licensed professionals. The American Welding Society reports approximately 771,000 welders nationwide, with a median annual wage of $45,190, and projects a 2% to 3% job growth from 2025 to 2029. In Riverside, CA, welders earn an average weekly wage of $1,264.75, with an annual overtime average of $12,000. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like AWS help aspiring welders find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $100,000 annually for experienced professionals.
