How to Become. Welder

Video 503 Welders

First, get your high school diploma or GED. Then enroll in a welding training program, which can take anywhere from a few months to two years. After that, you can earn certifications like AWS (American Welding Society) depending on the type of welding you want to do. No apprenticeship is required, so you can start working right after school.

Entry-level welders usually earn $40,000–$50,000 per year. With a few years of experience and the right certs, that can jump to $60,000–$80,000. But the big money comes with specialization.

High-paying welding specializations: pipe welding ($80,000–$120,000), underwater welding ($100,000–$200,000+), industrial/rig welding ($100,000+), and welding inspector or trainer ($90,000–$120,000).

Welders who travel, take on riskier jobs, or master multiple welding methods can make serious money. There’s demand in construction, shipyards, aerospace, energy, and more. You can even start your own mobile welding business.

Welding is a skill you can take anywhere — and it pays to be good with your hands.

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