The fundamental task of a welder is to join pieces of metal together using specialized equipment. Welders are always in demand, even when the U.S. economy is struggling. Men and women interested in this career can complete training at a trade school in St. Louis, MO.
Employment Opportunities
Welders work in such a broad range of industries that employment opportunities continue to grow. Welders who are laid off from one industry can transfer their skills to a different field.
Job growth in this occupation has slowed to a certain extent in recent years. Nevertheless, about a 3-percent increase has been forecast by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics through 2028. New workers also will be needed to fill openings left by large numbers of welders who are retiring. They can become ready by completing a program at a trade school in St. Louis, MO.
In fact, according to an article published in Bloomberg, a shortage of skilled welders is expected due to so many workers reaching retirement age. As of 2019, the average age of a skilled welder was 55, according to the American Welding Society.
Pay Rates
The Bureau reports the median hourly pay rate for welders at close to $20 as of 2018. That translates to pay of more than $40,000 per year, not counting any overtime hours. Overtime in this occupation is common, and many employees receive incentive pay for working second or third shift, or on weekends. Training can be completed at Crider’s Institute of Welding Technology.
