Becoming a welder in Rochester, NY, typically begins with an apprenticeship, which combines 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 employed throughout the United States, with about 9,463 active job openings at any given time. The median wage for welders in Rochester, NY is approximately $39,696 annually, with experienced professionals earning up to $108,000 per year. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like Gild help aspiring welders find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential and diverse specialization opportunities.
