Welding Trades

Welders are essential to nearly every industry—from construction and automotive to aerospace and energy. If you enjoy working with your hands, solving problems, and creating things that last, welding offers a solid and flexible career path.

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What Do Welders Do?

Welders join metal parts using intense heat and specialized tools. Their work is found in buildings, pipelines, vehicles, ships, and even space shuttles. Key tasks include:

• Reading blueprints and technical drawings
• Operating welding equipment and tools
• Inspecting and testing welds for strength and safety
• Working with a variety of welding techniques:
  • MIG (GMAW)
  • TIG (GTAW)
  • Stick (SMAW)
  • Flux-core (FCAW)

Many welders specialize in a specific industry such as structural steel, underwater welding, or precision manufacturing.

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Salary & Job Outlook

Role	Median Salary	Job Growth (2024–2032)
Entry-Level Welder	$40,000–$50,000	👍 Steady
Certified Welder	$50,000–$60,000	🔧 Consistent
Specialized Welder (e.g., pipe, underwater)	$70,000+	📈 High Demand

📊 According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, welding jobs are projected to grow steadily due to aging infrastructure and demand in construction and manufacturing.

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How to Become a Welder

Here’s a step-by-step path to becoming a welder:

1. Earn a high school diploma or GED
2. Complete a welding training program (can take 6–18 months)
3. Earn welding certifications through AWS or NCCER
4. Gain experience on the job or through an apprenticeship
5. Specialize and pursue advanced certs if desired

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Training Options

Welding can be learned through:

• Welding Trade Schools or Technical Colleges
• Manufacturer or union apprenticeship programs
• Military training (for veterans)

💡 Some employers offer tool stipends and tuition reimbursement.

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Certifications & Licensing

Licensing requirements vary by state, but most employers expect certification from bodies like:

• American Welding Society (AWS)
• National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER)

Specialty certifications (like pipe welding or underwater welding) can increase job opportunities and pay.

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State Licensing & Requirements

Each state has different rules for welders. While many states don’t require a formal license, most employers expect:

• Being at least 18 years old
• Holding a high school diploma or GED
• Completing a welding training program or apprenticeship
• Earning certification (such as AWS D1.1 or equivalent)
• Demonstrating hands-on welding skills in a performance test

We’ve written state-by-state guides that walk you through exactly what’s required.

State	Step-by-Step Guide
Florida	Become a Welder in Florida
Texas	Become a Welder in Texas
California	Become a Welder in California

Explore more: All State Licensing Pages »

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Skills Needed

• Steady hands and good hand-eye coordination
• Ability to read blueprints and follow specs
• Basic math and measurement
• Physical stamina and safety awareness
• Precision and attention to detail

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Pros & Cons

Pros:

• High earning potential with specialty skills
• In-demand in multiple industries
• Minimal student debt (short training)
• Opportunities to travel for work

Cons:

• Physically intense and potentially hazardous
• Work environments can be hot or confined
• May require long hours or travel

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Related Pages

• Explore All Skilled Trades
• Electrical Trades
• HVAC Trades
• Plumbing Trades
• Carpentry Trades
• Solar Trades
• Mold Trades

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