Ironworkers
๐ค Save CareerIronworkers play a vital role in the US economy, with 85K professionals employed nationwide. The median annual salary is $61,940, with projected growth of 4% through 2034 (As fast as average).
๐ฐ Salary Range
๐ Growth Outlook
moderate โ 4% projected growth๐ค AI Automation Risk
This career is highly resistant to AI automation.
๐คAI Impact Deep Dive: Ironworkers
๐ฌ AI Impact Deep Dive: Ironworkers
AI Collaboration Score
Measures how much AI tools are used as collaborative assistants in this role (0% = no AI involvement, 100% = AI-intensive workflow)
๐ฎ Future Outlook
Ironworking is a highly physical occupation performed in unpredictable, outdoor environments and at great heights, which provides a significant natural barrier to AI and robotics. While AI might assist with peripheral tasks like blueprint analysis or site scheduling, the core duties of manual welding, bolting, and balancing on structural beams require real-time human dexterity and physical presence that cannot be automated with current or near-future technology.
Analysis based on Microsoft "Working with AI" research (2025), O*NET task data v30.2, and Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational projections. Updated March 2026.
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A Day in the Life
๐Career Outlook & Getting Started
Why It's Promising
With 4% projected growth and a median salary of $61,940, this career offers steady prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent.
How to Get Started
Entry typically requires high school diploma or equivalent. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field.
Who Is It For
Anyone interested in ironworkers who wants to build a rewarding career in this field.
๐Majors & Top Schools
โFrequently Asked Questions
How much does a Ironworkers make in 2026?โผ
The median salary for a Ironworkers is $61,940 per year. Entry-level positions start around $37,164, while experienced professionals can earn up to $99,104 depending on location, specialization, and industry.
How do I become a Ironworkers?โผ
Entry typically requires high school diploma or equivalent. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field. The typical education requirement is no degree required.
What degree do you need to be a Ironworkers?โผ
Most Ironworkers positions require no degree required. However, some professionals enter the field through alternative paths like bootcamps, certifications, or self-directed learning.
What AP courses should I take to become a Ironworkers?โผ
Check PathLeap for personalized AP course recommendations for Ironworkers. The right AP courses depend on your target college major and career specialization.
What does a Ironworkers do on a daily basis?โผ
As a ironworker, your day involves a mix of specialized tasks that require both expertise and adaptability. You work with colleagues, clients, or patients depending on the setting, applying your training to solve real-world problems.
Is Ironworkers a good career in 2026?โผ
With 4% projected growth and a median salary of $61,940, this career offers steady prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent. Job growth is projected at 4%, which is declining. The median salary of $61,940 also positions it competitively in the job market.
Will AI replace Ironworkerss?โผ
Ironworkers has an AI automation risk score of 10/100 (Very Low). This career is highly resistant to AI automation due to its need for human judgment, creativity, or physical presence.
What kind of person makes a good Ironworkers?โผ
Anyone interested in ironworkers who wants to build a rewarding career in this field. Success in this role also depends on continuous learning and adaptability, especially as the field evolves with new technology and industry trends.
Is Ironworkers Right for You?
Take our career quiz to see how Ironworkers matches your personality. Get personalized AP course recommendations and see what similar students are exploring.
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