Welder at American Welding Society
at American Welding Society in Miami, FL
About This Program
The American Welding Society (AWS) sponsors a Welder apprenticeship based in Miami, FL. AWS is the leading professional organization for the welding industry in the United States, and this time-based apprenticeship program reflects its commitment to developing skilled welding professionals through structured, paid training.
The three-year program includes 6,000 hours of on-the-job training and 432 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices develop competency in a range of welding processes, including MIG, TIG, and stick welding, as well as cutting techniques and quality inspection. Technical coursework is aligned with AWS standards and covers welding theory, joint design, blueprint reading, metallurgy, and safety practices relevant to the profession.
Graduates finish the program as skilled Welders with training grounded in nationally recognized AWS standards, providing a strong credential for employment in manufacturing, construction, aerospace, or structural fabrication. Apprentices earn wages throughout training, supporting financial stability while building long-term career skills.
Wage & Training
Journeyman Wage
$24
OJT Hours
6,000
RTI Hours
432
Duration
3 years
Wage data is the national median for this occupation (BLS, May 2023), not specific to this program.
How to Apply
Welder Career Outlook
National Median
$23.81/hr
~$49,524.8/yr
Apprentice Start
$15.5/hr
Earn while you learn
Job Outlook
Employment for welders is projected to remain steady with consistent demand driven by infrastructure spending, manufacturing, and energy sector projects. Aging infrastructure across the U.S. requires ongoing repair and replacement, creating sustained need for skilled welders. Retirements in the current workforce are expected to generate additional openings over the next decade.
What to Expect as a Welder Apprentice
Duration
3 years of combined on-the-job training and classroom instruction
On-the-Job Training
~40 hours/week of hands-on work under journeyman supervision (6,000 total hours)
Classroom Instruction
432 hours of related technical instruction (~144 hours/year)
Paid Training
You earn a wage from day one, starting at a percentage of the journeyman rate and increasing as you progress
Time-based program: You'll progress through the program based on completing a set number of hours in both on-the-job training and classroom instruction.
Trade School vs. Apprenticeship for Welder
Apprenticeship
Trade School
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