How to Become a Welder in Florida
Updated April 13, 2025 | Brad Fishbein
Thinking about becoming a welder in Florida? You’re in the right place. This guide breaks down everything you need to know — from certification to training and job placement. Whether you’re a high school grad, military veteran, or career changer, welding offers a path to a stable, high-demand trade.
Welding is more than just melting metal. It’s precision, skill, and opportunity — and Florida’s industrial, construction, and shipbuilding sectors need welders now more than ever.
Overview: Welding in Florida
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Licensing agency | None (welding isn’t licensed in FL) |
| Certification body | American Welding Society (AWS) |
| Training approval | Florida Department of Education |
| Job data | U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics |
| Workforce funding | CareerSource Florida / WIOA |
“The American Welding Society (AWS), headquartered in Miami, Florida, is the national leader in welding certifications — including the Certified Welder (CW) and Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) programs.” — aws.org
Step-by-Step: How to Become a Welder in Florida
1. Meet the Basic Requirements
- Be at least 18 years old
- High school diploma or GED (recommended)
- Pass a basic physical (for jobsite readiness)
- Have reliable transportation to job sites or training centers
2. Enroll in a Welding Program or Apprenticeship
| School | City | Program Type |
|---|---|---|
| Tulsa Welding School | Jacksonville | Full-time technical training |
| Erwin Technical College | Tampa | DOE-approved trade school |
| Orange Technical College | Orlando | Evening & day classes |
| Florida State College | Jacksonville | Welding Technology Certificate |
Use Florida DOE’s database to find local accredited programs.
You’ll learn:
- MIG, TIG, and Stick welding
- Blueprint reading
- Pipe and structural welding
- Welding safety (OSHA compliance)
Typical programs last 6–12 months. Longer apprenticeships (1–4 years) are available through unions and employers.
3. Earn AWS Certification
The most recognized credential in Florida welding is the AWS Certified Welder (CW). Testing is performance-based — pass a hands-on weld test at an AWS-accredited test facility (ATF).
| Certification | Issued By | Needed For |
|---|---|---|
| CW (Certified Welder) | AWS | Entry-level and advanced jobs |
| CWI (Welding Inspector) | AWS | Quality control/supervisory |
| OSHA 10/30 | OSHA | Required on many job sites |
“AWS certification is portable — it’s not tied to any one state or employer. Once you pass, you’re nationally recognized.” — American Welding Society
4. Find a Job or Apprenticeship in Florida
Use these resources:
- CareerSource Florida: Job placement + training grants
- Apprenticeship.gov: Search active welding apprenticeships
- Florida shipyards, HVAC companies, and fabrication shops
- Military/veteran pipelines (ask local welding schools about GI Bill funding)
5. Advance Your Welding Career
After 1–3 years on the job, many welders choose to specialize or level up:
- Pipe welding (high demand in utilities + oil)
- Structural steel (commercial and bridge projects)
- Underwater welding (requires commercial dive training)
- Welding inspection (CWI)
Certifications can be stacked to boost pay and eligibility.
Salary & Job Outlook for Florida Welders
| Job Title | Avg. Salary (FL) | Job Demand |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level Welder | $37,000 | High |
| Pipe Welder | $50,000 – $70,000 | Very High |
| CWI (Inspector) | $60,000 – $90,000 | Growing |
| Underwater Welder | $80,000+ | Niche, specialized |
“Welding jobs are expected to grow 4% nationally through 2032, with even stronger demand in states with infrastructure and shipbuilding projects like Florida.” — BLS.gov
Tools & Downloads
FAQs
Is welding licensed in Florida?
No. Florida does not license welders. Certification is voluntary but required by most employers.
How long does it take to become a welder?
6–12 months for school, or 1–4 years through an apprenticeship.
Is AWS certification required?
Not by law — but nearly all employers require it for job placement.
Can I use my GI Bill to pay for welding school?
Yes. Many Florida welding schools accept GI Bill funding.
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Meet the author: Brad Fishbein is a Florida Licensed Mold Assessor and council-certified Microbial Investigator. He’s the founder of TradeCareerPath.com and has completed over 5,000 mold inspections since 2009. Brad now helps homeowners and tradespeople make smart decisions about mold, licensing, and skilled career paths.
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