Welding is a high-demand trade with strong job security and good pay. Whether you’re just starting out or changing careers, this guide will show you how to become a welder and what steps to take.
What does a welder do?
Welders use heat to fuse metal parts together, working on everything from bridges and buildings to pipelines, cars, and aircraft. Their work is essential in construction, manufacturing, energy, and repair services.
Common tasks a welder may be responsible for include:
- Read blueprints: Interpret technical drawings to understand project specifications.
- Prepare materials: Measure, cut, and align metal parts before welding.
- Weld components: Use different welding techniques such as MIG, TIG, or Stick to join metals.
- Inspect welds: Check for strength, accuracy, and compliance with safety or structural codes.
- Maintain equipment: Clean, test, and repair welding tools and machines regularly.
- Follow safety procedures: Wear protective gear and follow safety protocols to prevent injuries from heat, sparks, or fumes.
How to become a welder
The path to becoming a welder can vary slightly depending on your location and industry, but most welders follow these core steps:
- Earn a High School Diploma or GED
Most employers require a high school education. Focus on math, shop, and science classes, especially those related to metallurgy or mechanical drawing. - Complete a Welding Training Program
Enroll in a trade school, technical college, or community college program that offers hands-on welding instruction. These programs typically last 6 months to 2 years. - Gain Practical Experience
Many new welders enter apprenticeships, internships, or on-the-job training programs. This experience helps build skills and confidence in real-world settings. - Get Certified
While not always required, welding certifications (such as those from the American Welding Society – AWS) improve job prospects and show employers you meet industry standards. Certifications vary by process and job type. - Apply for Entry-Level Welding Jobs
With training and certification, you can pursue entry-level roles in manufacturing, construction, automotive repair, and more. - Continue Learning and Advancing
As you gain experience, you can specialize in advanced welding techniques, pursue additional certifications, or move into supervisory, inspection, or welding engineering roles.
Career opportunities in welding
Welding offers a wide range of career paths beyond entry-level roles. As welders gain experience and certifications, they can move into specialized fields, higher-paying industries, or leadership positions.
Common career path options for welders:
- Structural Welder – Works on bridges, buildings, and large infrastructure. Often employed in construction and fabrication.
- Pipe Welder – Specializes in welding pipes for oil, gas, and water systems. High demand in energy, shipbuilding, and industrial sectors.
- Underwater Welder – Combines commercial diving and welding to perform repairs on ships, pipelines, and offshore platforms. Highly specialized and well-paid, but physically demanding.
- Welding Inspector – Ensures welds meet quality and safety standards. Requires certification such as AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI).
- Welding Engineer – Designs welding procedures and oversees complex fabrication projects. Often requires a degree in welding engineering or materials science.
- Robotic Welding Technician – Operates and maintains automated welding systems in manufacturing. In-demand as automation increases.
- Fabricator or Metal Artist – Uses welding in creative industries for custom furniture, sculptures, or architectural metalwork.
- Welding Instructor – Trains future welders in schools, unions, or corporate settings. Ideal for experienced welders looking to give back.
Industry opportunities for welders:
- Construction (residential, commercial, and infrastructure)
- Manufacturing (automotive, heavy machinery, shipbuilding)
- Oil & Gas and Energy (pipeline installation, plant maintenance)
- Aerospace and Defense (aircraft, military equipment)
- Renewable Energy (wind turbines, solar panel infrastructure)
With the right skills and certifications, welding can lead to stable, well-paying careers with room for advancement or specialization.
Job outlook for welders
The job outlook for welders is 2% growth through 2033.
An estimated 46,000 openings are expected each year through 2033. Automation of metal work in manufacturing is one reason for the slower than average growth.
Welder salaries
The median annual income for welders is $48,940, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).