Ironworker at Ironworkers Local 44
at Ironworkers Local 44 in Hebron, KY
About This Program
Ironworkers Local 44 in Hebron, KY sponsors a union JATC ironworker apprenticeship designed to develop skilled tradespeople for the structural and reinforcing ironwork industry. This registered program provides apprentices with paid, hands-on training from day one under the supervision of experienced journeymen.
The apprenticeship lasts four years and requires 6,000 hours of on-the-job training as well as 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices gain experience in structural steel erection, rebar placement, rigging, welding, and ornamental iron installation. Technical classes cover blueprint reading, rigging theory, welding basics, mathematics for ironworking, and OSHA safety standards.
Upon completing all program requirements, graduates become journeyman ironworkers and union members with Local 44. Hebron's location in northern Kentucky, near the Cincinnati metropolitan area, positions graduates for employment on major commercial and industrial construction projects with competitive union compensation.
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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