The apprenticeship program prepares the student to earn a journey-level status in Ironworking, as well as an Associate of Applied Science degree. A four-year apprenticeship emphasizes the skill set required to be a highly skilled craftsman. The Ironworker erects, assembles, and installs fabricated structural metal products, usually large metal beams, in the erection of industrial, commercial, or large residential buildings. Structural Ironworkers erect the steel framework of bridges and buildings. Reinforcing Ironworkers set steel bars or mesh in concrete forms to strengthen concrete in buildings and bridges. Ironworkers install metal stairways, catwalks, gratings, grills, screens, fences, and decorative ironwork. The Rigger is an ironworker whose job is to move heavy machinery, using rollers, forklifts, and other sources of power.

Program Outcomes

Students completing the Construction Trades, General Apprenticeship: Iron Worker Specialization degree should be able to satisfy the following outcomes:

1. Apply effective communication techniques and demonstrate active listening skills by practicing clear articulation, interpreting verbal and non-verbal cues, and responding appropriately to enhance understanding and collaboration in diverse interactions.
2. Demonstrate professionalism, collaborate effectively, and adapt to workplace dynamics while continuously enhancing their knowledge and skills through learning and feedback.
3. Employ OSHA, company and in-house standards and policies, first aid and CPR to maintain a safe work site that is environmentally sensitive.
4. Interpret appropriate blueprints for a given project and apply basic math and geometry to determine layout.
5. Fabricate, erect and detail the structure and/or precast using appropriate equipment and tools in a safe, effective and environmentally sensitive manner for industrial, commercial or large residential building clients.
6. Construct, erect and detail stairways, catwalks, curtain walls, handrails, gratings, screens, fences and windmills using appropriate equipment and tools in a safe, effective and environmentally sensitive manner for industrial, commercial or large residential building clients.
7. Manufacture and place rebar and post tensioning using appropriate equipment and tools in a safe, effective and environmentally sensitive manner for industrial, commercial or large residential building clients.
8. Operate and install machinery using rollers, forklifts and other appropriate equipment and tools in a safe, effective and environmentally safe manner.

Iron Worker Specialization

Iron Worker Apprenticeship application requirements:

• 18 years of age or older.
• High School Diploma or GED.
• One year of high school algebra with grade “C” or better; or completion of MTH 060 (or higher) at Chemeketa; or placing into MTH 070 (or higher) on a college placement test.

HVAC/R Apprenticeship specialization degree requirements:

• Journey-level status in the Ironworker industry.
• Complete a minimum of 30 credits at Chemeketa.
• Complete the general education requirements for the AAS degree.
• Complete a minimum of 90 approved credits; 28 credits are awarded for proof of journey-level status.

Students may earn an Associate of Applied Science degree by successfully completing the Construction Trades, General Apprenticeship general education requirements of 20 credit hours, plus additional credits in the Ironworker area of specialization, and 28 hours for proof of journey-level status.

Are you looking to print a Degree Planner for this program? Click on located at the upper right corner of this page.