Welder at Infinite Welding and Machine
at Infinite Welding and Machine in Volga, SD
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.
About This Program
Infinite Welding and Machine sponsors a registered Welder Apprenticeship program in Volga, SD. This non-union, time-based program offers individuals the opportunity to enter the welding trade with structured, paid training in a real shop environment from the start.
The program spans three years, incorporating 6,000 hours of on-the-job training and 432 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work directly with skilled welders to develop proficiency in welding processes, metal fabrication, equipment setup, and safety practices. Classroom instruction covers metallurgy, welding symbols, blueprint interpretation, and applicable industry codes and standards.
Graduates of this apprenticeship earn journey-level status as welders, qualifying them for a wide range of positions in manufacturing, agriculture equipment, and industrial fabrication. A registered apprenticeship credential from a recognized program like this one signals competency to employers and supports steady career growth in the skilled trades.
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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