Ironworker at Omaha Iron Workers

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipPaid Training

at Omaha Iron Workers in Omaha, NE

About This Program

Omaha Iron Workers sponsors a registered ironworker apprenticeship program based in Omaha, NE. This employer-sponsored program offers a structured path into the ironworking trade, providing apprentices with paid, hands-on experience on construction projects in the greater Omaha area.

The four-year, time-based program requires 6,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices develop skills in structural steel erection, reinforcing iron and rebar installation, rigging and hoisting, metal decking, and welding basics. Classroom instruction addresses blueprint reading, ironworking mathematics, OSHA safety standards, and construction trade fundamentals.

Graduates complete the program as journeyman ironworkers, ready for skilled employment on commercial and industrial construction projects across Nebraska. This earn-while-you-learn program offers a direct route into a trade with strong regional demand and meaningful long-term career potential.

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.

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.

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

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!

See something wrong? Help us improve this page.