Becoming a welder in Starkville, MS, often begins with an apprenticeship that combines 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 771,000 welding professionals nationwide, with a median annual wage of $45,190. In Starkville, MS, welders can expect to earn a weekly wage of approximately $1,000, with experienced professionals potentially earning over $120,000 annually. Trade schools, welding unions, and platforms like AWS offer apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential.
