Welding Schools in Kentucky

Welders in Kentucky are usually in high demand and are well compensated for their duties. While the state’s duty of a welder may vary based on sub-disciplines within the field, Kentucky’s approach to launching a welding career is universal.

Below, we explore all the major requirements that interested individuals must consider on their journey. After examining the educational requirements and possible training options, we dive into the licensure laws and certification possibilities for better career opportunities.

To close, we explore the top welding programs in Kentucky and, finally, the salary projections based on actual figures earned by welders in the state.

How to Become a Welder in Kentucky

The following are the steps needed to become a welder in Kentucky.

Education

The minimum educational requirement to begin a welding career in Kentucky is a high school diploma or GED. This requirement ensures that candidates have the base level of knowledge in fields such as mathematics and physics needed to comprehend the advanced principles of welding.

Community colleges, vocational schools, and apprenticeship programs usually ask for it.

Training

Community colleges, vocational schools, and apprenticeship programs are responsible for setting the minimum educational requirements for future welders in Kentucky because these are the destinations where candidates can acquire the needed training.

All of them, of course, have their pros. Community Colleges offer strong certificates and degrees, while vocational schools are reputable for a strong mix of classroom and hands-on training.

Apprenticeship programs are the most prominent destinations for learning in a real-world environment, with the possibility of earning some income during training.

Experience

Experience is critical for aspiring welders in Kentucky. Yes, they have yet to become professionals, but they are still expected to be able to manage the requirements of the job in a real-world setting.

Candidates looking to gain experience before starting a full-fledged career may do so through internships, apprenticeships, and entry-level positions.

Certification

Lastly, even though it is not always required, future welders in Kentucky would obtain certification to shore up their skills and set themselves on a path toward a solid career trajectory.

We explore this particular topic in greater detail below.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Become a carpenter in Kentucky

Licensure & Certification Requirements

As above, welders in Kentucky are advised to obtain certification to shore up their skills and set themselves on a solid career trajectory. They are expected to do so by earning professional credentials offered by the American Welding Society, but there are other destinations to do so.

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers also offers valuable credentials for welders in Kentucky, as do many other reputable professionals. Candidates can also focus on obtaining professional credentials like this one, as obtaining a state or local license is unnecessary.

Certified welders must participate in continuing education classes and pass periodic examinations to retain their licenses.

Top Welding Schools in Kentucky

The following are a few of the most notable welding schools in Kentucky.

Explore welding schools in Kentucky by city:

• Welding Schools in Louisville

Salary & Career Outlook

Welders in Kentucky earn an annual salary that aligns with the national average. This figure of $45,903 pertains to an average worker among the midpoint earners.

A welder in the state who is closer to the bottom 10% earners will still manage an average salary of around $34,155 per year, while those who are among the highest-paid (top 10%) will manage an annual average salary of up to $61,692.

The best places to work as a welder in Kentucky for the highest annual returns include Bowling Green, with an annual average salary of $54,223; Florence, with an annual average salary of $48,943; Lexington, with an annual average salary of $46,399; Louisville, with an annual average salary of $45,631; and Shelbyville, with an annual average salary of $43,886.

Location, experience, specialty, and nature of employer also greatly influence how much a welder will earn in Kentucky.