Why Dallas is a strong market to start.
DFW's skyline is in constant transformation. Major commercial projects, stadium construction, and the region's highway expansion program keep structural ironworkers continuously employed. DFW ironworkers benefit from one of the most active commercial construction markets in the South.
What ironworkers earn in Dallas.
Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington Metro — Ironworker Wages
Apprentice (years 1–2)$42,000 – $54,000
Journeyman ironworker$62,000 – $82,000
Foreman / supervisor$85,000 – $105,000
Reinforcing / ornamental specialist$75,000 – $103,000+
Texas statewide median (BLS)$62,480
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment Statistics. Data reflects 2024 figures for Texas.
Programs available near Dallas.
Apprenticeship — Union
Ironworkers Local — Dallas
Iron Workers International locals in Texas offer 3-4 year paid apprenticeships. Strong wages, benefits, and training in structural, reinforcing, and ornamental ironwork.
Apprenticeship — Non-Union
ABC TX — Ironworker Apprenticeship
Non-union path with good employer connections across commercial construction.
On-the-Job Training
Commercial Contractors — Dallas
Some Dallas commercial and industrial contractors hire entry-level ironworkers and provide on-the-job training combined with apprenticeship coursework.
OSHA & Safety Training
OSHA 30 + NCCER Core Curriculum
Required safety training for ironworkers. Most union apprenticeship programs include this — non-union workers should complete it independently.
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Getting your Texas license.
Texas licenses electricians through the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). Dallas and Tarrant counties follow state licensing — no additional local license beyond the TDLR credential is required to work in the DFW Metroplex.
Common questions about Dallas ironworker training.
Dallas ironworkers earn $42,000–$103,000+ depending on experience and specialization. Structural ironworkers on major commercial projects and reinforcing ironworkers on infrastructure work earn at the high end. Texas statewide BLS median is $62,480.
Structural ironwork (erecting steel frames for buildings and bridges), reinforcing ironwork (placing rebar for concrete structures), and ornamental/miscellaneous ironwork (stairs, railings, decorative elements). Dallas's construction market offers opportunities across all three.
Apply to the local Ironworkers International union for their apprenticeship program. ABC non-union apprenticeships are also available. You'll need a valid driver's license, basic physical fitness, and willingness to work at heights.
Dallas's construction market creates consistent ironworker demand. Commercial high-rise, bridge, and industrial construction all require structural and reinforcing ironworkers throughout the project lifecycle.
Also serving Dallas
Programs near these cities also available
Fort Worth
Arlington
Plano
Frisco
McKinney
Irving
Garland
Mesquite