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Skilled Trade · Indianapolis, IN

How to become a welder in Indianapolis

$18–$28/hr (starting) · $30–$45/hr+ (specialized) Free guide — no signup required
Why this pathIndianapolis is a manufacturing town — Allison Transmission, Rolls-Royce, and Cummins (Columbus, nearby) hire welders consistently. Training is short, and specialized welders (TIG, pipe) earn some of the best wages in the skilled trades.

Common starting roles

Welder HelperMIG WelderProduction WelderFabricator

Step-by-step roadmap

1

Get welding training

A welding certificate teaches you the main processes (MIG, TIG, stick) and shop safety. Ivy Tech offers welding programs, and Indiana WorkOne grants may cover the cost for eligible Hoosiers.

⏱ 4 months – 1 year💲 Free–$10,000
↗ Ivy Tech — Welding Technology — Certificate and degree options in Indianapolis.↗ Indiana WorkOne — May fund welding training for eligible workers.
2

Earn an AWS welding certification

Most employers require a passing weld test or an American Welding Society (AWS) certification proving you can lay a sound weld in a given process and position. Testing is often done at schools or testing facilities.

⏱ Test day after practice💲 ~$300–$1,000
↗ American Welding Society (AWS) — Certified Welder program and accredited test facilities.
3

Start as a helper or production welder

Allison Transmission, Rolls-Royce, Cummins, and dozens of Indianapolis fabrication and manufacturing shops hire entry welders. Production roles build speed and consistency fast.

⏱ Ongoing💲 Free — you earn
4
Optional

Optional: Specialize in TIG or pipe welding

TIG welding (precision, stainless, aluminum) and pipe welding pay noticeably more. Building skill in these processes is the fastest way to raise your wage.

⏱ 1–2 years on the job💲 Varies
5
Optional

Optional: Earn advanced certifications (6G pipe, CWI)

A 6G pipe certification or the AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) credential leads to top-tier pay, travel work, and inspection/supervisory roles.

⏱ Varies💲 Varies
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a Welder make in Indianapolis?

$18–$28/hr (starting) · $30–$45/hr+ (specialized). Indianapolis is a manufacturing town — Allison Transmission, Rolls-Royce, and Cummins (Columbus, nearby) hire welders consistently. Training is short, and specialized welders (TIG, pipe) earn some of the best wages in the skilled trades.

How much does it cost to become a Welder?

Typical out-of-pocket costs in Indiana: Earn an AWS welding certification: ~$300–$1,000. Many programs are employer-paid or covered by Indiana WorkOne grants for eligible Hoosiers — always ask before paying out of pocket.

How long does it take?

Get welding training (4 months – 1 year); Earn an AWS welding certification (Test day after practice); Start as a helper or production welder (Ongoing).

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Requirements verified against official Indiana and federal sources (Indiana Dept of Health, FMCSA, Indiana BMV, Indianapolis DBNS). Last reviewed May 2026. Found something out of date? Tell us.