Becoming a welder typically starts with technical training, which can range from 6 to 18 months, providing hands-on experience and classroom learning. The American Welding Society projects a need for 320,500 new welding professionals by 2029, with steady job growth in sectors like manufacturing and infrastructure. In Willimantic, CT, welders can expect to earn an average of $1,500 per week, with experienced professionals often surpassing $56,000 annually. Vocational schools, community colleges, and industry apprenticeships offer pathways to this lucrative career, which is in demand due to the aging workforce and expanding industries.
