Ironworker at Ironworkers Loc #1
at Ironworkers Loc #1 in Forest Park, IL
About This Program
Ironworkers Loc #1 in Forest Park, IL offers a registered ironworker apprenticeship program for individuals looking to build a career in structural, ornamental, and reinforcing ironwork. This employer-sponsored program provides paid training that blends hands-on field experience with related technical instruction.
The apprenticeship spans four years and includes 6,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of classroom instruction. Apprentices develop skills in steel erection, rebar placement, rigging, blueprint reading, and safe work practices at elevation. Technical coursework covers welding basics, crane signaling, load calculations, and industry safety regulations.
Graduates of the program earn journeyman ironworker status, opening doors to work on commercial buildings, bridges, and industrial facilities across the Chicago metro area and beyond. A career as a journeyman ironworker offers long-term stability in a physically demanding and skilled trade.
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.
Trade School vs. Apprenticeship for Ironworker
Apprenticeship
Trade School
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