Ironworker at Ironworkers JATC, Columbus Lu 172
at Ironworkers JATC, Columbus Lu 172 in Columbus, OH
About This Program
Ironworkers JATC Columbus Local Union 172 sponsors a registered union ironworker apprenticeship in Columbus, OH. This JATC program serves the central Ohio construction market, training the next generation of skilled ironworkers for careers on commercial, industrial, and public infrastructure projects. Apprentices earn wages from the first day of training.
The program is four years in duration and combines 6,000 hours of on-the-job training with 576 hours of related technical instruction. On the job, apprentices work with experienced journeymen on structural steel, reinforcing bar, rigging, and welding. Technical instruction delivered through the JATC covers safety standards, blueprint reading, mathematics for ironworkers, and construction trade principles.
Completing the Local 172 apprenticeship qualifies graduates as journeyman ironworkers. Union membership connects them to negotiated pay scales, full benefits, and consistent employment opportunities in one of Ohio's most active construction markets — with skills and credentials that are recognized statewide and beyond.
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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