Ironworkers Local 86 Apprenticeship
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Washington / Ironworkers Local 86 Apprenticeship
Ironworkers Local 86 Apprenticeship Program
Program Information
The Ironworkers Local 86 Apprenticeship program provides a structured pathway into the ironworking trade while allowing apprentices to earn wages and receive full benefits during training. Apprentices learn the skills required to work safely and productively on major construction projects, including high-rise buildings, bridges, power plants, towers, and large infrastructure projects. Training follows an earn-while-you-learn model and includes health care benefits, pension and annuity contributions, and paid time off.
Ironworkers perform physically demanding work that includes erecting structural steel, placing reinforcing steel for concrete structures, and working at elevated heights. Apprentices are trained in multiple areas of the trade, including reinforcing steel placement, structural steel erection, welding, ornamental ironwork, rigging, and machinery moving. A strong emphasis is placed on safety, balance, coordination, and the ability to perform rigorous manual labor in challenging environments.
Applicants accepted into the program must successfully complete a one-day physical evaluation followed by a mandatory one-week unpaid safety orientation before being dispatched to a job. The safety orientation includes classroom instruction, physical training, testing, and a drug screening. Completion of both the evaluation and orientation is required for entry into the apprenticeship program.
Program Length
The Ironworkers Local 86 apprenticeship is a four-year training program. Apprentices receive progressive on-the-job training combined with classroom instruction throughout all four years. Upon successful completion of the program, apprentices journey out as full journeyman ironworkers, qualified to work independently across all areas of the trade.
Training Curriculum
First-year apprentices focus on safety fundamentals, reinforcing concrete, erecting structural steel, dismantling scaffolding, forklift operation, and jobsite organization. Second-year training emphasizes rigging loads with cranes, working safely around all types of cranes, construction math, CPR and First Aid, architectural and ornamental ironwork, and the history of ironworking.
During the third year, apprentices receive advanced instruction in welding and cutting processes, including oxyfuel cutting, Flux Core Arc Welding (FCAW), and Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW). Apprentices demonstrating proficiency may be tested in multiple welding processes and have opportunities to earn AWS and WABO welding certifications.
Fourth-year training focuses on blueprint reading, foreman responsibilities, jobsite leadership, instrument setup and use, window systems, advanced ornamental work, OSHA 30 training, and continued study of ironworker history. This final year prepares apprentices for leadership roles and journey-level responsibilities.
Program Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Ability to read, write, and speak English
- Submission of a completed application in person during designated application hours
- Valid driver’s license and proof of legal employment status
- Proof of dependable transportation
- Ability to pass a physical evaluation, drug test, and safety orientation
- Physical ability to work at heights and perform strenuous manual labor
Applicants must appear in person with all required documents on application day. Applications are kept on file for two years, and applicants are notified by mail regarding evaluation and screening dates. A union initiation fee and first month’s dues are required prior to job dispatch.
Apprenticeship Cost & Career Outlook
Ironworkers Local 86 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.