Ironworker at Ironworkers Local 623
at Ironworkers Local 623 in Baton Rouge, LA
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.
About This Program
Ironworkers Local 623 in Baton Rouge, LA provides a union JATC ironworker apprenticeship that prepares individuals for skilled careers in structural, reinforcing, and ornamental ironwork. This registered program offers paid training from the start and follows the high standards set by the Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee.
The apprenticeship spans four years, requiring 6,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work under journeyman supervision on structural steel erection, rebar placement, rigging, welding, and architectural ironwork. Technical coursework covers print reading, rigging calculations, welding theory, and construction safety and health standards.
Graduates earn journeyman ironworker status and full union membership with Local 623. Baton Rouge's significant petrochemical, industrial, and commercial construction activity makes it an active market for skilled ironworkers, and union membership supports access to competitive wages and benefits.
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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