Ironworkers Local 21 — Structural & Reinforcing Steel Apprenticeship (Nebraska + Iowa)

About This Opportunity

Ironworkers Local 21 is one of the most compelling apprenticeship opportunities in the entire Omaha/Council Bluffs metro — and one of the few union apprenticeships that explicitly covers both Nebraska and Iowa. If you have ever looked at a building going up, a bridge being constructed, or a stadium being built and wondered who puts the steel together — that is an ironworker. Local 21 apprentices earn $23.50/hr starting pay (65% of journeyman scale) from the first day on the job. Every six months, your wage increases. By the time you complete the four-year program, you hold a journeyman ironworker card recognized across the country. The program requires 204 hours of classroom instruction per year alongside full-time fieldwork. You do not need any prior construction experience. You need to be 18 or older, have a high school diploma or GED, pass a drug screen, have reliable transportation, and be physically capable of working at height. The application is available online — there is no paper-only requirement. This program explicitly covers Omaha, Nebraska, Iowa (including Council Bluffs), and South Dakota. If you are a Council Bluffs or Omaha area resident who wants a physically demanding, well-paid, career-defining trade — Local 21 is worth your full attention.

Who Can Apply

Must be 18 or older. High school diploma or GED required. Drug-free — drug screening required. Valid ID and work authorization (U.S. citizenship or legal work authorization). Reliable transportation to job sites. Physical fitness to work at height and in demanding conditions. Apply online at iw21.org. Serves Nebraska, Iowa (including Council Bluffs/Pottawattamie County), and South Dakota.