Ironworker at Int. Assoc. Bridge Struc. Orn. Reinf. Ironworkers Local 378
at Int. Assoc. Bridge Struc. Orn. Reinf. Ironworkers Local 378 in Bencia, CA
About This Program
The International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental & Reinforcing Ironworkers Local 378 offers this union JATC apprenticeship based in Benicia, CA. Backed by one of the building trades' most established unions, this program provides structured training for apprentices entering the ironworking profession in the Northern California region.
Over four years, apprentices complete 6,000 hours of paid on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. On the job, apprentices learn steel erection, reinforcing bar placement, rigging and signaling, ornamental ironwork installation, and safe work practices at height. Classroom sessions reinforce these skills with instruction in blueprint reading, structural systems, rigging calculations, and workplace safety regulations.
Completing this apprenticeship earns graduates journeyman ironworker status recognized across the industry. The JATC structure ensures training meets rigorous union standards, providing a strong foundation for a lasting career on bridges, commercial buildings, and large-scale infrastructure projects. Apprentices are paid throughout the program, allowing them to earn a living while developing their craft.
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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