Dallas is one of the fastest-growing metros in Texas — and demand for skilled welders is surging with it. Find local apprenticeships, trade schools, and training programs. Start earning while you learn.
DFW's manufacturing and aerospace sector — with Bell Helicopter/Textron, Lockheed Martin, and numerous tier-1 suppliers in the area — creates strong demand for certified welders. The region's pipeline infrastructure and commercial construction add to demand. Aerospace-certified welders in the DFW area command some of the highest wages in the trade in Texas.
Salary Data — Dallas
What welders earn in Dallas.
Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington Metro — Welder Wages
Entry level (0–2 years)$36,000 – $44,000
Certified welder (3–5 years)$50,000 – $65,000
Pipe welder / specialty$65,000 – $90,000
Industrial / inspection welder$80,000 – $120,000+
Texas statewide median (BLS)$49,490
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment Statistics. Data reflects 2024 figures for Texas.
Training Paths
Programs available near Dallas.
Trade School — Certificate
Local Community College — Welding Technology
Dallas-area community colleges offer welding certificate programs. Programs run 6-18 months. AWS certification prep included at most programs.
Trade School
Texas State Technical College (TSTC)
TSTC welding programs are among the best in the state. Strong focus on AWS certification and industrial process welding.
Apprenticeship
Boilermakers / Ironworkers Locals — Dallas
Union apprenticeships through Boilermakers Local or Ironworkers Local often include welding certification as part of the training program.
Industry Training
Lincoln Electric / Miller — Authorized Training Centers
Manufacturer-authorized training centers offer short-course welding certifications. Good for adding specific AWS certifications to your existing skills.
Texas licenses electricians through the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). Dallas and Tarrant counties follow state licensing — no additional local license beyond the TDLR credential is required to work in the DFW Metroplex.
FAQ
Common questions about Dallas welder training.
Dallas welders earn $36,000–$90,000+ depending on certification and specialization. Pipe welders working in industrial and petrochemical settings earn the highest wages. Texas statewide BLS median is $49,490.
AWS (American Welding Society) certifications are the industry standard. For industrial and energy work, pipe welding certifications (6G position) command the highest rates. ASME certifications are required for pressure vessel work.
Certificate programs run 6-18 months. You can begin earning within a year of starting training. Advanced certifications — particularly for pipe and industrial work — take additional time and testing.
Dallas's industrial base creates consistent welding demand. Certified pipe welders and structural welders have strong employment prospects across manufacturing, construction, and industrial maintenance sectors.
Also serving Dallas
Programs near these cities also available
Fort Worth
Arlington
Plano
Frisco
McKinney
Irving
Garland
Mesquite
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