Union Ironworkers and employers sponsor a four year apprenticeship program. Training is conducted in the classroom and on the jobsite. Ironworker apprentices attend a four week, daytime training session each year of their apprenticeship. Classes are normally held during the winter months. Apprentices start at 65% of journey level wage. Pay rates are increased approximately every six months as the apprentice's work skills increase.

Ironworkers erect the structural framework for high rise buildings, bridges, power plants and towers. They also place reinforcing steel in concrete forms for roadways, foundations and structures. The aluminum fascia on high rise window walls is also erected by ironworkers. The majority of work done by Ironworkers is preformed outside and at heights. Agility and the ability to work comfortably off the ground are a must.