Workers in safety gear guiding heavy machinery lifting large industrial gear outdoors at construction site.

Ironworker

IronMen: Climb to the Top of a High-Paying Career as an IronWorker

IronMen: Climb to the Top of a High-Paying Career as an IronWorker

Workers in safety gear install large glass panels with city skyline and Ferris wheel reflections on a sunny day.

Become an Ironworker in Georgia

Ironworkers Local 387 Apprenticeship & Careers

Ironworkers build the structural framework that supports buildings, bridges, stadiums, and infrastructure projects. In Georgia, many ironworkers begin their careers through a union apprenticeship with Ironworkers Local 387 in Atlanta.

If you enjoy physical work, working outdoors, and being part of large construction projects, ironworking can be a rewarding career with strong wages and benefits.


What Ironworkers Do

Ironworkers install and assemble the steel framework that forms the skeleton of buildings and structures.

Their work includes:

• Erecting structural steel beams and columns
• Installing reinforcing steel (rebar)
• Connecting steel components with bolts and welds
• Installing metal decking for floors and roofs
• Reading structural drawings
• Working with cranes and rigging equipment

Ironworkers often work at heights and must follow strict safety procedures.


Where Ironworkers Work

Ironworkers help build major construction projects across Georgia, including:

• High-rise buildings
• Stadiums and arenas
• Bridges and transportation infrastructure
• Data centers
• Industrial plants
• Warehouses and distribution centers
• Commercial developments

Their work forms the structural backbone of many large projects.


Example Projects Ironworkers Work On

Ironworkers help build projects such as:

• Atlanta skyline high-rise buildings
• Major sports stadiums and arenas
• Airport expansions
• Manufacturing plants and distribution centers
• Bridges and infrastructure projects

These structures depend on steel frameworks built by skilled ironworkers.


Ironworker Apprenticeship Program

Most ironworkers begin their careers through a registered apprenticeship program.

The Ironworkers Local 387 apprenticeship includes:

• Paid on-the-job training
• Classroom instruction
• Safety training
• Hands-on structural steel work

Apprentices earn wages while learning and receive regular raises.


How Long the Apprenticeship Takes

Ironworker apprenticeship programs typically last:

3-4 years

Training includes:

• Structural steel erection
• Rigging and crane signaling
• Welding
• Blueprint reading
• Reinforcing steel installation
• Construction safety

Graduates become journeyman ironworkers.


Local Union for Ironworkers in Atlanta

Ironworkers Local 387

Local 387 represents ironworkers across the Atlanta region.

Members receive:

• Apprenticeship training
• Health insurance
• Pension and retirement benefits
• Job opportunities on major construction projects
• Continuing training and certifications


How To Apply for the Ironworker Apprenticeship

Ironworkers Local 387 Training Center

Website
https://ironworkerslocal387.com/main/

Phone
(404) 505-0027

Location
Atlanta, Georgia

Typical requirements include:

• High school diploma or GED
• Physical ability for construction work
• Valid driver's license


Why Choose a Career as an Ironworker?

Ironworkers enjoy careers that offer:

• Strong wages and benefits
• Paid training instead of college debt
• Opportunities to work on major projects
• High demand for skilled workers

Ironworkers build the structural backbone of modern cities.