San Antonio 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.
San Antonio's manufacturing sector — including Toyota's largest North American plant and a growing defense manufacturing base — creates strong welding demand. Toyota's facility alone employs hundreds of skilled tradespeople. San Antonio welders with automotive or defense manufacturing experience earn premium wages at major facilities.
Salary Data — San Antonio
What welders earn in San Antonio.
San Antonio-New Braunfels 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 San Antonio.
Trade School — Certificate
Local Community College — Welding Technology
San Antonio-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 — San Antonio
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 TDLR. San Antonio and Bexar County follow state licensing — no separate city license is required. The City of San Antonio requires permits for electrical work but accepts state TDLR credentials.
FAQ
Common questions about San Antonio welder training.
San Antonio 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.
San Antonio'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 San Antonio
Programs near these cities also available
New Braunfels
Schertz
Converse
Universal City
Seguin
Boerne
Helotes
Pleasanton
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