for those who go tradeschools, i think welders are one of the higher paid among others. Get more certs & training throughout, and join an OnG construction contractor or something when the time comes. Then you may stand a chance of going offshore. There, you being paid day rate on contractual basis, and following where project goes. Earns more than your mom does. Free meal + not spending a penny for months. gooding. If good, make ur way up to foreman, inspector etc etc.