Ironworker at Houston Iron Workers Local 84 JATC
at Houston Iron Workers Local 84 JATC in Houston, TX
About This Program
The Houston Iron Workers Local 84 JATC sponsors this registered union ironworker apprenticeship in Houston, TX. As a Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC) program, it combines union representation with structured, employer-sponsored training — a strong foundation for a long-term career in the ironworking trade. Apprentices are paid from day one while they develop professional skills on real job sites.
The program runs four years and includes 6,000 hours of on-the-job training alongside 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices learn structural steel erection, reinforcing iron and rebar placement, rigging and signaling, welding fundamentals, blueprint reading, and job site safety. Classroom instruction reinforces the hands-on skills developed in the field.
Upon completing the program, graduates earn journeyman ironworker status — a nationally recognized credential that opens doors to work on commercial, industrial, and infrastructure projects across the country. Journeyman ironworkers are in consistent demand in the Houston metro area and throughout Texas's growing construction sector.
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.
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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