Ironworker at Ironworkers Local 395 J.A.T.C.
at Ironworkers Local 395 J.A.T.C. in Lake Station, IN
About This Program
Ironworkers Local 395 J.A.T.C. in Lake Station, IN provides a union ironworker apprenticeship that prepares individuals for skilled careers in structural, ornamental, and reinforcing ironwork. As a JATC program, Local 395 combines paid jobsite training with formal technical instruction from the beginning of the apprenticeship.
The four-year program includes 6,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices develop hands-on skills in steel erection, rebar tying, rigging, welding, and ironwork at height, all under the guidance of certified journeymen. Classroom training addresses print reading, rigging mathematics, welding fundamentals, and OSHA safety standards.
Graduates earn journeyman ironworker status and union membership with Local 395. Located in northwest Indiana near the Chicago metro area, members have access to a robust construction market with union-negotiated compensation packages.
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
Reviews
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!
See something wrong? Help us improve this page.