Education · 1 of 5

The path

An apprenticeship, not a degree. You are on site from the start.

1. 1

   High school diploma or equivalent

   Grade 12

   Most programs want a diploma or a GED (high school equivalency credential), plus basic math. Shop classes help but are not required.

2. 2

   Apply to an apprenticeship

   Weeks to a year of waiting

   Either a union local of the Iron Workers, or a contractor running its own registered program. Expect a math test, an interview and a physical.

3. 3

   Work and learn

   3 to 4 years

   Paid work on site with a journeyman, plus evening or block classroom instruction at a training center.

4. 4

   Welding and rigging tickets

   During the apprenticeship

   Most apprentices certify in welding and in rigging and signalling during the program. These are what raise your rate fastest.

5. 5

   Journeyman

   After your hours

   You finish with a nationally recognized credential, full rate, and the option to run crews as a foreman.