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How to become a welder in Michigan
Michigan has no state welding license. Employers hire on skill and code certifications, usually from the American Welding Society (AWS), which you earn by passing a hands-on test. You can train at a career tech center in high school, a community college certificate or a union apprenticeship. Welders earn a median of $24.03 an hour.
Last checked: October 2026. Pay is the Michigan median from the federal government (May 2025).
Quick facts: welder in Michigan
| Median pay | $24.03 an hour ($49,990 a year) |
|---|---|
| Typical range | $22 to $28 an hour |
| Openings | About 1,320 a year, mostly replacing retirees. Total jobs are projected to shrink 2.4% through 2034. |
| Training | A certificate in under a year, or a 4-year apprenticeship |
| License | None from the state. AWS Certified Welder is a hands-on test. |
Sources: BLS, Michigan wages (May 2025) · Michigan Hot 50 (MCDA) · MCDA projections 2024 to 2034 · AWS, Certified Welder
Ways to get trained, cheap or free
In high school
Welding is one of the most common career tech center programs, and many students leave with AWS certifications. CTE guide
Community college
Example: Macomb Community College's Basic Welding Certificate is 23 credits (384 hours), with an advanced certificate after. Free for many adults through Reconnect. Find a college
Union apprenticeship
Welding is a core skill in several trades: Boilermakers Local 169 (4 years, 6,000 hours) · Ironworkers Local 25 · Pipefitters Local 636. Union welders who do pipe or structural work usually earn more than the median.
Short training for this job may qualify for Workforce Pell once Michigan approves specific programs, so ask the provider.
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Common questions
Do you need a license to weld in Michigan?
No. Michigan has no state welding license. Employers look for code certifications, such as AWS Certified Welder, earned by passing a hands-on test.
Source: American Welding Society
Is welding a growing job in Michigan?
Not in total numbers. Michigan projects welding jobs to shrink 2.4% through 2034, but there are still about 1,320 openings a year as welders retire or change jobs.
Source: MCDA