Becoming a welder typically starts with a technical school program or apprenticeship, which combines hands-on experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships last about 6 to 18 months, requiring many hours of training under licensed professionals. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports 402,333 welders nationwide, with a median annual wage of $45,190, translating to approximately $869 per week. In Washington, VA, the average wage for welders is around $407.32 per week, with an annual overtime average of $9,438. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like Gild help aspiring welders find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $108,000 annually for experienced professionals.
