Most employers require a high-school diploma, certification and technical training. There are several ways to get there.
Formal technical school training can take between six and 18 months. If you have a high-school diploma or equivalent, you can combine it with technical, on-the-job training. Schooling in areas like advanced math, metallurgy, physics, mechanical drawing and blueprint reading is useful. Learning welding symbols and pipe layout will help you on the path to becoming a welder.