Ironworker at North Florida Ironworkers JAC
at North Florida Ironworkers JAC in Jacksonville, FL
About This Program
The North Florida Ironworkers Joint Apprenticeship Committee sponsors this union JATC ironworker apprenticeship in Jacksonville, FL. Serving the North Florida region, this program prepares apprentices to perform skilled ironwork on a wide range of commercial, industrial, and infrastructure construction projects in one of Florida's fastest-growing metro areas.
The four-year program delivers 6,000 hours of paid on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices train on real job sites under journeyman supervision, developing competency in structural steel erection, reinforcing bar placement, rigging and crane signaling, ornamental ironwork, and safe practices at elevation. Classroom sessions address blueprint reading, rigging theory, fall protection standards, and OSHA safety requirements.
Graduates earn journeyman ironworker status through a JATC-recognized program, positioning them for steady employment in the region's active construction market. Jacksonville's continued growth in commercial development, transportation infrastructure, and industrial construction supports strong demand for qualified ironworkers. Apprentices receive pay throughout their training, combining income with skill development from day one.
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
Reviews
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!
See something wrong? Help us improve this page.