Becoming a welder in Syracuse, NY, typically begins with an apprenticeship, combining 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 569,179 welders in New York, with Syracuse contributing significantly to this workforce. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 2% to 3% job growth in the welding sector from 2025 to 2029. Apprentices in Syracuse earn an average of $650 per week, with experienced welders often exceeding $60,000 annually. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like Gild help aspiring welders find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential.
