Education and training requirements for Structural and reinforcing iron and metal workersMost employers recommend a 3- or 4-year apprenticeship consisting of on-the-job training and evening classroom instruction as the best way to learn this trade. Apprenticeship programs usually are administered by committees made up of representatives of local unions of the International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers or the local chapters of contractors� associations. Ironworkers must be at least 18 years old. A high school diploma is preferred by employers and local apprenticeship committees. High school courses in general mathematics, mechanical drawing, and shop are helpful. Because materials used in iron working are heavy and bulky, ironworkers must be in good physical condition. They also need good agility, balance, eyesight, and depth perception to work safely at great heights on narrow beams and girders. Ironworkers should not be afraid of heights or suffer from dizziness. In the classroom, apprentices study blueprint reading; mathematics for layout work; the basics of structural erecting, rigging, reinforcing, welding, and burning; ornamental erection; and assembling. Apprentices also study the care and safe use of tools and materials. On the job, apprentices work in all aspects of the trade, such as unloading and storing materials at the job site, rigging materials for movement by crane, connecting structural steel, and welding. Some ironworkers learn the trade informally on the job, without completing an apprenticeship. These workers generally do not receive classroom training, although some large contractors have extensive training programs. On-the-job trainees usually begin by assisting experienced ironworkers on simple jobs, such as carrying various materials. With experience, trainees perform more difficult tasks, such as cutting and fitting different parts; however, learning through work experience alone may not provide training as complete as an apprenticeship program, and it usually takes longer. Some experienced workers are promoted to supervisor. Others may go into the contracting business for themselves. More information on Structural and reinforcing iron and metal workers from The U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook Overview of Structural and reinforcing iron and metal workers occupation Number of Structural and reinforcing iron and metal workers in the U.S. Salary and earnings for Structural and reinforcing iron and metal workers Working conditions for Structural and reinforcing iron and metal workers Significant points for Structural and reinforcing iron and metal workers Training requirements for Structural and reinforcing iron and metal workers Labor Information Home | Occupational data by city | Search Rainforests | Madagascar | What's new |