Becoming a welder in Shelby, NC, typically begins with technical training, which can range from 6 to 18 months, providing hands-on experience and classroom learning. According to the American Welding Society, there are approximately 771,000 welding professionals in the U.S., with a median annual salary of $45,190. In Shelby, NC, welders can expect to earn an average of $1,118 per week, with opportunities for significant growth through specialization and experience. Trade schools and community colleges offer accessible pathways to this lucrative career, with the potential for experienced welders to earn over $108,000 annually.
