How to Become a Welder in Michigan (2025)

Q: Where Do Welders Work in Michigan?

Welders can work in: Manufacturing plants – automotive, aerospace, or industrial machinery Construction companies – bridges, pipelines, and buildings Fabrication shops – creating custom metal parts Public works contractors – completing MDOT highway and bridge projects Many welders also find long-term employment through union apprenticeships or MDOT-authorized contractors involved in statewide infrastructure development.

By Jessa GuzonNov 17, 2023Updated May 20, 2026

See if you qualify for Welding programs

Answer a few questions in 2 minutes. Free, no commitment.

Start

Welding offers a practical, stable, and high-earning career for those who enjoy working with their hands and mastering technical skills. From car factories in Detroit to construction projects across the state, welders are essential to Michigan’s economy.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers in Michigan earn an average of $52,780 per year, or about $25.38 per hour. Skilled welders and specialists can make over $70,000 a year, depending on experience, location, and certification.

If you’re thinking about becoming a welder in Michigan, this guide covers what welders do, the education and training you’ll need, certification options like AWS and MDOT, and how to find welding jobs across the state.

Programs for you

Southern New Hampshire University

MS Management with concentration in Construction Management

Online

Learn to manage essential project teams
Program accredited by ACBSP

No cost info

Waldorf University

AA Occupational Safety & Health

Online

Online, estimated completion in 2 years for full-time students
Covers industrial hygiene, occupational safety, and more

Financial aid (may be available)

Arizona State University

Construction Management and Technology, MS

Online

Learn from notable faculty at the nation's most innovative university.
#2 for employability among U.S. public universities by GEURS.

Financial aid (may be available)

Arizona State University

Construction Management and Technology, BS

Online

Top 10 for best online bachelor's programs.
Learn from notable faculty at the nation's most innovative university.

Financial aid (may be available)

Key Points

Welders fuse and repair metal structures using high heat and precision tools.
Most welding programs in Michigan take 6 to 18 months to complete.
Programs cost between $5,000 and $15,000, depending on the school and training type.
Michigan welders earn an average of $52,780 per year.
Certification from the American Welding Society (AWS) or the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) can boost job prospects and pay.
You can find local programs through Dreambound and start training near you.

What is a Welder?

A welder is a skilled tradesperson who joins metal parts using heat and electricity. They work with steel, aluminum, and other alloys to build or repair equipment, vehicles, and structures.

Common tasks include reading blueprints, preparing metal surfaces, operating welding tools, and inspecting finished joints to ensure strength and safety.

In Michigan, welders work in industries such as:

Automotive manufacturing
Construction and infrastructure
Aerospace and defense
Energy and shipbuilding
Industrial fabrication and repair

Welding combines craftsmanship and technology, offering a steady career with strong growth potential.

Where Do Welders Work in Michigan?

Welders can work in:

Manufacturing plants – automotive, aerospace, or industrial machinery
Construction companies – bridges, pipelines, and buildings
Fabrication shops – creating custom metal parts
Public works contractors – completing MDOT highway and bridge projects

Many welders also find long-term employment through union apprenticeships or MDOT-authorized contractors involved in statewide infrastructure development.

Requirements to Become a Welder in Michigan

Before starting your welding career, you’ll need to meet a few education and training requirements:

Education A high school diploma or GED is required for most welding programs. Courses in mathematics, physics, and shop are helpful for understanding measurements, design, and safety.
Training Program Enroll in a welding course at a technical school or community college. Most programs last from 6 months to 18 months and combine classroom instruction with hands-on lab work. You’ll learn various techniques such as MIG, TIG, stick, and flux-core welding.
Certification Earning a certification shows employers that you meet professional standards. The most recognized credentials in Michigan are:

American Welding Society (AWS) Certification: The standard for welders nationwide, covering different processes and materials.
MDOT Welder Certification: Required for those who plan to weld on Michigan’s bridges, highways, and public infrastructure. Managed by the MDOT Structural Fabrication Unit, this certification follows AWS D1.1 and AASHTO/AWS D1.5 codes.

Experience After completing your program, gain hands-on experience through apprenticeships, internships, or entry-level jobs. Real-world practice helps improve precision and problem-solving skills.
Safety Training Welding involves heat, gas, and electrical tools, so understanding Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) safety protocols is essential.

How to Become a Welder in Michigan

1. Complete Your Education

Start with a high school diploma or GED. Strengthen your foundation by focusing on math, shop, and mechanical drawing classes.

2. Enroll in a Welding Training Program

Choose an accredited program that offers both theory and practice. Topics typically include welding safety, blueprint reading, metallurgy, and fabrication.

You can explore welding schools near you on Dreambound, which lists verified schools in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, Flint, and other Michigan cities.

3. Choose a Certification Path

After completing training, pursue certification to validate your skills.

AWS Certification is ideal for general welding jobs in manufacturing and construction. It covers various methods and positions, and the credential is recognized nationwide.
MDOT Certification applies to welders who want to work on public infrastructure projects. It follows AWS D1.1 standards and requires testing at an authorized MDOT testing agency. Certification is valid for two years, as long as you remain active in welding.

4. Get Hands-On Experience

Start with entry-level jobs or apprenticeships under experienced welders. This is where you’ll learn real-world problem-solving, time management, and advanced techniques like pipe or structural welding.

5. Keep Your Certification Active

Continue practicing your trade, attend refresher courses, and renew certifications as required. Many employers encourage welders to maintain multiple credentials to stay competitive.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Welder in Michigan?

Most aspiring welders can finish their training and certification in 12 to 18 months. Shorter programs focus on specific welding methods, while longer ones include advanced fabrication, pipe welding, and preparation for multiple certifications.

If you plan to work on MDOT projects, allow additional time for testing and approval from authorized agencies.

How Much Does Welding School Cost in Michigan?

Welding program costs vary by school and program type, but most range between $5,000 and $15,000. This includes tuition, materials, safety gear, and lab access. Some schools offer payment plans, scholarships, or financial aid to help offset costs.

Where to Find Welding Jobs in Michigan

After earning your certification, welders can work in various sectors:

Automotive manufacturing (Detroit and Lansing)
Bridge and road construction (MDOT projects)
Fabrication and repair shops
Energy and pipeline welding
Aerospace and shipbuilding industries

You can explore local job listings through MyNextMove or by connecting with unions and industry organizations.

Salary Outlook for Welders in Michigan

Welders in Michigan earn an average annual salary of $52,780, according to BLS data. Beginners typically start around $37,000, while experienced welders with multiple certifications can earn over $72,000 per year.

Specializations such as pipe welding, underwater welding, or MDOT-certified structural welding often pay higher rates due to technical difficulty and safety responsibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become a welder in Michigan? It takes about 12 to 18 months to complete training and certification.

How much does welding school cost in Michigan? Programs typically cost between $5,000 and $15,000, depending on length and location.

Do I need a license to weld in Michigan? No state license is required, but certification through AWS or MDOT is highly recommended and often required by employers.

What qualifications do you need to become a welder? A high school diploma or GED, completion of a welding training program, and certification.

What kind of welding jobs are available in Michigan? Welders can work in construction, automotive manufacturing, metal fabrication, or public infrastructure projects.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a welder in Michigan opens the door to a dependable and respected career with opportunities across multiple industries. Completing a certified training program and earning credentials from AWS or MDOT will help you stand out to employers and qualify for higher-paying jobs.

Start your welding career today.

Looking for a better fit? These other articles could be more in line with your expectations if this one isn't precisely what you had in mind: