Ironworker at Central Indiana Ironworkers Jac
at Central Indiana Ironworkers Jac in Indianapolis, IN
About This Program
Central Indiana Ironworkers JAC in Indianapolis, IN offers a union ironworker apprenticeship for those looking to build a career in the structural, reinforcing, and ornamental ironwork trades. This Joint Apprenticeship Committee program provides paid training and prepares apprentices to work on some of Indiana's largest construction projects.
The program spans four years and combines 6,000 hours of on-the-job training with 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work alongside journeymen on structural steel erection, rebar placement, rigging, and ornamental installations. Technical classes cover blueprint reading, welding, rigging calculations, fall protection systems, and construction safety.
Completing the program earns apprentices journeyman ironworker status and union credentials. Based in Indianapolis, graduates have access to a strong construction market with opportunities on commercial, industrial, and civil infrastructure projects throughout central Indiana.
Wage & Training
Journeyman Wage
$29
OJT Hours
6,000
RTI Hours
576
Duration
4 years
Wage data is the national median for this occupation (BLS, May 2023), not specific to this program.
How to Apply
Ironworker Career Outlook
National Median
$28.82/hr
~$59,945.6/yr
Apprentice Start
$18/hr
Earn while you learn
Job Outlook
Ironworker employment is tied to large-scale construction activity including commercial buildings, bridges, and infrastructure. Federal infrastructure investment and urban development continue to drive demand. The trade has a relatively small workforce, so retirements create proportionally more openings. Ironworkers with welding and rigging certifications are in highest demand.
What to Expect as an Ironworker Apprentice
Duration
4 years of combined on-the-job training and classroom instruction
On-the-Job Training
~30 hours/week of hands-on work under journeyman supervision (6,000 total hours)
Classroom Instruction
576 hours of related technical instruction (~144 hours/year)
Paid Training
You earn a wage from day one, starting at a percentage of the journeyman rate and increasing as you progress
Time-based program: You'll progress through the program based on completing a set number of hours in both on-the-job training and classroom instruction.
This is a union-affiliated program. Union apprenticeships typically offer strong benefits packages, pension contributions, and structured career advancement through the local hall.
Trade School vs. Apprenticeship for Ironworker
Apprenticeship
Trade School
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