Ironworker at (PHL) Ironworkers JATC (LU 401)
at (PHL) Ironworkers JATC (LU 401) in Philadelphia, PA
About This Program
Ironworkers JATC Local Union 401, based in Philadelphia, PA, sponsors a registered union apprenticeship for structural and ornamental ironworkers. As a JATC program, it combines employer involvement and union training resources to prepare apprentices for careers on commercial, industrial, and infrastructure construction projects throughout the greater Philadelphia region. Apprentices earn wages from day one.
The apprenticeship is four years long, encompassing 6,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices develop skills in structural steel erection, ornamental ironwork, welding, rigging and hoisting, and safety practices — all under the mentorship of seasoned journeymen. Classroom instruction addresses blueprint reading, ironworking mathematics, rigging load charts, and OSHA safety standards.
Graduation earns apprentices journeyman ironworker status through one of the Philadelphia area's most recognized union locals. Local 401 union membership brings collectively bargained wages, health and retirement benefits, and access to a pipeline of major construction projects in one of the Northeast's largest markets.
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
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