Ironworker at Pacific Northwest Ironworkers JATC - Local 14
at Pacific Northwest Ironworkers JATC - Local 14 in Spokane, WA
About This Program
Pacific Northwest Ironworkers JATC Local 14 sponsors a registered union ironworker apprenticeship in Spokane, WA. This JATC program provides union-backed, employer-supported training for individuals entering the ironworking trade in eastern Washington. Apprentices earn wages throughout the program, making this a true earn-while-you-learn opportunity from day one.
The apprenticeship runs four years, delivering 6,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices learn structural steel erection, reinforcing iron installation, rigging and signaling, welding, and safety practices directly on job sites. Technical instruction in the classroom covers blueprint reading, mathematics, and the theory behind ironworking methods and materials.
Graduates earn journeyman ironworker status upon completion, qualifying them for work on large-scale construction and infrastructure projects. Spokane and the surrounding Inland Northwest region continue to see commercial and public construction growth, supporting ongoing demand for skilled ironworkers trained through Local 14.
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
Reviews
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!
See something wrong? Help us improve this page.