Embarking on a career as a welder in The Dalles, OR, typically begins with technical training or an apprenticeship, combining hands-on experience with classroom instruction. The American Welding Society projects a significant demand for 320,500 new welding professionals by 2029, with about 80,000 positions requiring annual fulfillment between 2025 and 2029. In The Dalles, OR, welders can expect to earn an average wage of $1,500 per week, with the potential for overtime boosting annual earnings. Technical schools, community colleges, and industry programs provide pathways to apprenticeships, leading to a rewarding career with strong earning potential, often exceeding $78,000 annually for experienced welders.
