Ironworker at Iron Workers Union, Local 37
at Iron Workers Union, Local 37 in East Providence, RI
About This Program
Iron Workers Union Local 37, based in East Providence, RI, sponsors a registered union apprenticeship for ironworkers serving Rhode Island and the surrounding New England area. This JATC-affiliated program provides paid, structured training for individuals committed to building a skilled trade career in the ironworking industry.
The apprenticeship spans four years and includes 6,000 hours of on-the-job training paired with 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work alongside experienced journeymen on structural steel erection, reinforcing bar installation, rigging, welding, and ornamental ironwork. Classroom sessions cover OSHA safety standards, blueprint reading, rigging calculations, and ironworking theory essential to safe and professional performance on the job.
Graduating apprentices earn journeyman ironworker status recognized throughout the industry. Union membership with Local 37 connects ironworkers to collectively bargained wages, health and pension benefits, and employment opportunities on commercial, industrial, and civic construction projects across Rhode Island and New England.
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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