Start Your Welding Apprenticeship: A Second Chance Guide
Let’s talk about second chances and sparks flying—literally. If you’re looking to gain employment through a welding apprenticeship, you’re in the right place. Creating something meaningful with your hands could be your ticket to a fresh start.
The welding industry needs about 45,800 new welders every year, and here’s the thing: they care more about your skills than your past. Companies are eager to hire welding apprentices who can lay down a clean bead and show up ready to work.
Why a Welding Apprenticeship?
Think about it: every building, bridge, and car needs welding. The needs are constant and so are the opportunities. Welders make around $54,000 a year on average, but that’s just the beginning. When you complete an apprenticeship and become skilled enough, you could earn $70,000 or more. Some specialized welders make six figures!
Find a Welding Apprenticeship
Here’s what’s great about welding: you don’t need a degree. Many welding apprenticeship programs are specifically designed for people looking for a second chance. Places offering apprenticeships include:
And many of these welding apprenticeship programs prefer teaching people who are starting fresh. No bad habits to break, just pure potential to mold.
Big Names that Need Apprentice Welders
Opportunities are plentiful. Major companies are actively looking for welding apprentices and second chance hires, including:
- General Dynamics
- Newport News Shipbuilding
- John Deere
- These companies on our Second Chance Company list
These aren’t just jobs—they are potential career paths with benefits, training, and advancement.
The Real Deal about Welding Apprenticeships
Most welding apprenticeships run 3-4 years, but here’s the best part: you get paid while you learn. Apprentice welders typically start at around $35,000 and work their way up as their skills improve.
If you or a loved one is currently serving time, ask if the facility has a pre-apprenticeship welding program. This can give you a head start and make a big difference in your reentry.
Make Your Welding Apprenticeship Happen
The truth is a welding apprenticeship isn’t just about joining metal—it’s about building bridges to a better life. Every day, people with records are putting on their welding helmets and proving that the past is just that: past.
Need help finding a welding program? Use our training program finder below.
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Everyone deserves a chance to build something new, including you.
