Welder at Cate Machine & Welding
at Cate Machine & Welding in Belleville, WI
About This Program
Cate Machine & Welding sponsors a registered Welder Apprenticeship in Belleville, WI. This employer-sponsored, non-union program offers a structured and paid training path into welding for individuals in South Central Wisconsin who want to develop trade skills in a real machine and fabrication shop setting.
The apprenticeship runs three years, consisting of 6,000 hours of on-the-job training and 432 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work hands-on in a machine and welding environment, building skills in welding processes, precision fabrication, component assembly, and equipment setup. Technical coursework covers welding theory, metallurgy, drawing and blueprint interpretation, welding codes, and safe work practices relevant to machine and fabrication operations.
Graduates complete the program as journey-level welders with experience in a machining context — a combination of skills that is particularly valued in manufacturing and precision fabrication. Wisconsin's strong manufacturing base provides a solid foundation for career opportunities after completing this registered apprenticeship.
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.
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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