Iron Workers Locals 40 & 361 Joint Apprenticeship
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in New York / Iron Workers Locals 40 & 361 Joint Apprenticeship
Iron Workers Locals 40 & 361 Joint Apprenticeship Program – Astoria, NY
Program Information
The Iron Workers Locals 40 & 361 Joint Apprenticeship Program offers comprehensive training for individuals pursuing careers as structural iron workers and riggers. The program combines classroom instruction with hands-on training to ensure apprentices acquire the necessary skills and knowledge. Key components include:
- Classroom Instruction: Apprentices attend classes twice a week during evenings and occasional Saturdays, covering topics such as safety protocols, blueprint reading, and trade-specific techniques.
- Hands-On Training: The 12,000-square-foot workshop features 35 welding stations equipped with stick and wire feeders, as well as a five-ton overhead crane for practical training in erecting structural steel mock-ups.
- On-the-Job Training: Apprentices gain valuable experience by working on actual job sites, applying their skills in real-world scenarios.
Program Length
The apprenticeship program spans three years, during which apprentices complete over 600 hours of classroom education and more than 4,000 hours of on-the-job training.
Certifications & Career Opportunities
Upon completion, graduates are prepared for journey-level positions in the ironworking industry. The program provides courses leading to licenses and certifications such as Certified Welding Inspector (CWI), Master Rigger, Lift Director, Signal Man, and Rigger, meeting NYC Department of Buildings and New York State requirements.
Program Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years old to work in New York State (17-year-olds may take the entrance test).
- Must provide proof of age (State or Government-issued picture ID).
- Must possess a minimum of a GED (proof of education required).
- Must pay a $25 testing fee online.
Financial Aid & Support Services
The apprenticeship training program is free to all students, funded through contributions from employees and employers of Iron Workers Locals 40 & 361. Additionally, the program offers a Journeyman Extension Program for continued education and skill enhancement.
Apprenticeship Cost & Career Outlook
Iron Workers Locals 40 & 361 Joint Apprenticeship is a Registered Apprenticeship Program — meaning you can earn while you learn through paid on-the-job training in Ironwork.
- Paid on-the-job training with step increases as you progress
- Classroom / technical instruction is part of the program structure
- Training costs are often low — but you may still pay for tools, books, or fees
- Credential earned at completion is recognized by employers in the industry
Registered apprenticeships are overseen by the U.S. Department of Labor or a State Apprenticeship Agency. Because these programs aren’t traditional colleges, College Scorecard tuition and earnings data usually doesn’t apply.
Step-by-Step Career Guides
The programs and apprenticeships listed on this page relate to hands-on skilled trades. Explore the guides below to learn about training paths, licensing, salaries, and what to expect in each career field.