Ironworker at Mid Florida Ironworkers Jac

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipUnionPaid Training

at Mid Florida Ironworkers Jac in Orlando, FL

About This Program

The Mid Florida Ironworkers Joint Apprenticeship Committee offers this union JATC ironworker apprenticeship in Orlando, FL. Located in one of the Southeast's fastest-growing construction markets, this program equips apprentices with the technical skills and practical experience needed to work on major building and infrastructure projects throughout Central Florida.

The four-year program provides 6,000 hours of paid on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices develop hands-on competencies in structural steel erection, rebar installation and tying, rigging and load control, ornamental metalwork, and safety protocols for elevated construction. Classroom instruction covers blueprint reading, rigging engineering principles, fall protection standards, and OSHA safety regulations.

Completing the program earns graduates journeyman ironworker status through the JATC framework, supporting access to union job referral systems and career opportunities across Florida and beyond. Orlando's expanding commercial construction sector, tourism infrastructure, and transportation projects provide a strong employment landscape for skilled ironworkers. Apprentices are paid throughout all four years of training.

Wage & Training

Journeyman Wage

$29

BLS 2023

OJT Hours

6,000

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

RTI Hours

576

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

Duration

4 years

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

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

Cost$0 (earn while you learn)
Duration4 years
Starting wage$18.00/hr
Journeyman wage$28.82/hr
CredentialJourneyman card

Trade School

Cost$5,000–$20,000+
Duration6–24 months
Starting wageEntry-level
ExperienceHands-on labs
CredentialCertificate / diploma

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