What is the AVERAGE salary for all welders?
I imagine that there are many unemployed “philosophers” but employers are pleading for welders.
Check out Alaska - $31K to $53K Median: $41K
http://www1.salary.com/AK/Welder-I-salary.html
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Welding Careers
Ignite new career possibilities: discover welding
From skyscrapers to cars to bridges - welding shapes lives and communities every day. In fact, most people are surprised to learn that half of our nation’s total gross national product includes welding work, products and services of some kind. Amazing, right?
You might also be surprised to discover that a career in welding is very different than you think. These roles are dynamic and challenging. They offer you rewarding opportunities to harness new knowledge; scientific principles; and today’s most advanced technologies.
High tech and high skilled
Welding technology has changed dramatically. Many younger, technology-geared students are drawn to welding worksites where teams frequently work with lasers, robotics, computer programming and other complex technologies. In addition to welders, many other professional-level experts are needed, from certified inspectors and engineers to specialized sales teams.
Too many jobs: not enough welders
From manufacturing to construction the demand for welders is strong. Salaries are also good, given that many jobs don’t require extensive education. Average wages are $17-25 an hour, with more complex roles like underwater welding; specialized certifications; or supervisory roles offering even higher earnings.
At present, the top-demand markets are Houston, the Gulf States, North Dakota and Coastal Virginia....these are where you’ll find the most jobs.
Ocean depths to outer space
Welders work everywhere...deep beneath the ocean surface to the top of our universe....and many exciting spaces in-between.
Career advancement throughout many industries is just a certification away
There are many avenues for those wanting to advance: inspectors, supervisors, educators, radiographic interpreters, sales teams, engineers and many more industry roles.
http://www.aws.org/weldingcareers
The American Welding Society has revealed it will face a shortage of 400,000 operators by 2024. There is a combined problem of an ageing population of current welders and a lack of new workers with complete skill sets.
https://www.premierwelding.co.uk/a/welding-skills-shortage-a-real-issue