Ironworker at Fort Wayne Ironworkers Local 147 JATC
at Fort Wayne Ironworkers Local 147 JATC in Fort Wayne, IN
About This Program
Fort Wayne Ironworkers Local 147 JATC in Fort Wayne, IN sponsors a union ironworker apprenticeship that trains individuals through a structured four-year program. This JATC-affiliated program ensures apprentices receive paid, high-quality training aligned with national ironworking standards.
The apprenticeship requires 6,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work with experienced journeymen on structural steel erection, reinforcing bar installation, rigging, and ornamental ironwork. Technical coursework covers welding theory, blueprint reading, crane signaling, fall protection, and construction safety regulations.
Upon completing the program, apprentices advance to journeyman ironworker status and become full members of Local 147. Journeyman ironworkers in Fort Wayne and the surrounding northeast Indiana region work on a variety of commercial, industrial, and infrastructure projects, with union wages and fringe benefits.
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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