How to Become a Welder

Welding is a skilled trade that involves joining metal parts using heat, pressure, or both. Welders work across many industries including construction, manufacturing, shipbuilding, automotive, and aerospace. The trade requires steady hands, attention to detail, and knowledge of metallurgy and blueprint reading. There are several welding processes professionals must master, including MIG (Gas Metal Arc Welding), TIG (Gas Tungsten Arc Welding), stick welding (Shielded Metal Arc Welding), and flux-cored arc welding. Many welders specialize in a particular process or industry, such as pipe welding for oil and gas or structural welding for construction. Welding offers strong earning potential, especially for those who pursue certifications from the American Welding Society (AWS). Specialized welders — particularly underwater welders and pipeline welders — can earn significantly above the median wage.

Two Paths to This Career

Trade School Path

Typical duration: 7-24 months

Trade school welding programs provide structured classroom and hands-on training in core welding processes. Students learn MIG, TIG, stick, and flux-cored welding along with blueprint reading, metallurgy, and safety procedures. Programs typically lead to a certificate or associate degree and prepare students to sit for AWS certification exams. Most programs include shop time where students practice on real-world projects. Graduates enter the workforce with foundational skills and can pursue specializations through additional certifications.

Apprenticeship Path

Typical duration: 3-4 years

Welding apprenticeships combine on-the-job training with related technical instruction. Apprentices work under experienced journeyman welders, progressing from basic tasks to complex welds over the course of the program. Apprentices earn wages from day one, starting at a percentage of the journeyman rate and increasing as skills develop. Apprenticeships are offered through unions (such as the Ironworkers or Boilermakers), employers, and industry associations. Upon completion, apprentices receive a nationally recognized credential.

Career Progression & Earnings

Typical earning trajectory for a welder. Wages vary by location, employer, and experience.

Apprentice

Entry level — learning on the job

$15.50/hr

~$32,240/yr

Journeyman

Certified — working independently

$23.81/hr

~$49,525/yr

Master / Senior

Experienced — may supervise others

$32.00/hr

~$66,560/yr

Source: BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics, May 2023. Annual estimates based on 2,080 hours/year.

School vs. Apprenticeship

Two paths to becoming a Welder. Here's how they compare.

Factor	Trade School	Apprenticeship
Cost	Tuition varies by school	$0 (earn while you learn)
Duration	7-24 months	3-4 years
Earnings During Training	No (student)	Yes ($15.50/hr starting)
Credential	Certificate or Associate's	Journeyman certification
Job Placement	Varies by school	Often hired by training sponsor

Source: BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics, May 2023

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.