Welder at Hillside Custom Machining, Fabrication and Welding LLC
at Hillside Custom Machining, Fabrication and Welding LLC in Morgantown, PA
About This Program
The Welder Apprenticeship sponsored by Hillside Custom Machining, Fabrication and Welding LLC is a registered, employer-sponsored program based in Morgantown, PA. This non-union program is designed for individuals who want to build a skilled career in welding and metal fabrication while earning a paycheck from day one.
The apprenticeship runs three years and combines 6,000 hours of on-the-job training with 432 hours of related technical instruction. Working alongside experienced welders, apprentices develop hands-on skills in welding techniques, blueprint reading, metal preparation, joint fitting, and equipment operation. Classroom instruction reinforces the science and safety principles behind the trade, covering topics such as metallurgy, welding codes, and inspection methods.
Upon completing the program, graduates are prepared to work as journey-level welders across industries including manufacturing, construction, and custom fabrication. Welding is a consistently in-demand skilled trade, and completing a registered apprenticeship provides a recognized credential that supports long-term career advancement.
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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