Ironworker at Ironworkers Local 512 JATC
at Ironworkers Local 512 JATC in St. Paul, MN
About This Program
Ironworkers Local 512 JATC administers a registered union apprenticeship for ironworkers in St. Paul, MN. This JATC program is designed to develop well-rounded ironworkers through a combination of supervised field work and structured classroom learning, with apprentices earning wages from the start.
The program spans four years, requiring 6,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices gain experience in structural steel erection, rigging and signaling, reinforcing iron and rebar placement, and welding operations. Classroom studies include blueprint reading, safety standards, ironworking calculations, and construction methods.
Graduates complete the program as journeyman ironworkers, qualified for skilled work on commercial and infrastructure projects across Minnesota. Membership in Local 512 connects journeymen to union-negotiated wages, health coverage, and retirement benefits.
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
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