Ironwork apprenticeships are sponsored by ironwork unions or contractor's associations. Classroom training covers blueprint reading, math, and the care and safe use of tools and materials. Apprentices also study the basics of structure erecting, rigging, reinforcing, welding and burning, and ornamental erection and assembling. On the job, apprentices learn how to unload and store materials at the job site as well as how to weld. They also learn to rig material for movement by the crane and to connect structural steel.
Some ironworkers learn the job informally rather than participating in an apprenticeship.
These workers generally do not take any courses, unless the contractor sponsors them. Instead, they learn all their skills on the job. Trainees being by assisting experienced workers. Often they start with simple jobs, like carrying materials. Eventually they learn to cut and fit parts as well as other difficult tasks.