In short
Welding apprenticeships are usually found inside other trades. Pipefitter, ironworker, boilermaker and shipyard programs all train heavy welding, typically over three to five years with pay that rises as you go. Some manufacturers also register welder programs. BLS lists moderate-term on-the-job training as typical for welders, who earned a median $53,750 in May 2025. Many people take a short welding course first.
| Middle pay | $53,750 a year, roughly $25.84 an hour (May 2025) |
|---|---|
| How most people start | High school or GED to start, then moderate-term on-the-job training |
| People in the trade | About 437,700 nationwide (2025) |
| Growth to 2035 | BLS expects 2.4% growth |
| Openings a year | Around 40,300, counting retirements |
From the BLS Employment Projections table (2025 to 2035) and May 2025 wage survey. These are U.S. numbers. Local shops may pay above or below them, and apprentices start well under the middle figure.
Where the paid welding training is
| Program | What you weld | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pipefitter or steamfitter (UA) | Pipe for plants, refineries, power and large buildings | Pipe welders are among the best paid welders |
| Ironworker | Structural steel, rebar, bridges | Lots of stick and flux-core in the field, plus rigging and connecting |
| Boilermaker | Boilers, tanks and vessels | Heavy travel and long outage jobs |
| Shipyard apprenticeships | Ship hulls and structures | Run by shipyards, often with schooling attached |
| Manufacturer programs | Production welding, fabrication | Search the federal finder for "welder" near you |
Apprenticeship or welding school?
A welding school program can take months and teach you to pass a bend test, but you pay tuition. An apprenticeship pays you, but takes years and teaches a whole trade, not just welding. Plenty of people do both: a short program to get entry-level work, then an apprenticeship once they know which side of welding they like. Read about welding certifications to see which tests employers ask for.
Want to start with a short welding program?
Tell us your ZIP and we will send welding schools near you.
How to get in
Apply to the trade that matches the welding you want. Union programs post application windows and test math and reading. Manufacturers often hire for entry-level fabrication and then put you through their program. Our apprenticeship application guide covers each step.
Straight answers
Is there a welding apprenticeship?
Yes, but most are part of the pipefitter, ironworker, boilermaker or shipbuilding trades. Some manufacturers run welder programs too.
How long is a welding apprenticeship?
Usually three to five years, depending on the trade it belongs to.
Do you need welding school before an apprenticeship?
No, but a short course can help you get hired or score higher when you apply.
What kind of welder makes the most money?
Pipe welders and welders in specialized industrial work tend to earn the most. See our welder pay page.