10/16/2026
Before the union, his paycheck depended on the week. Anywhere from $300 to $900, working non-union construction.
His first check as an apprentice was for almost $1,000. He was at the bottom of the pay scale, and he still earned more than his best non-union weeks.
Now he’s looking further ahead. When he retires, he’ll draw a pension of about $2,000, and it’s guaranteed. On top of that, he’s expecting an annuity payout of around $120,000 in one lump sum.
That’s what the work pays when it’s backed by a contract. Steady wages now. A plan for later.
If your paycheck still depends on the week, it doesn’t have to.
Apply at ironworkers384.com/join-us and talk to an organizer about where you’d start on the pay scale. No pressure, just a conversation.