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:

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.