Training
Our Training Programs and Course Offerings
At the Ironworkers Local 764 Training and Education Center, our mission is to deliver best-in-class, practical training to all dues-paying members and new apprentices eager to join our trade.
We are proud to offer industry-leading safety training at no cost to our members (with the exception of First Aid and any Energy Safety Canada courses). This same training is also available to the general public for a fee through the Ironworkers Training Center.
We’re also bringing exciting updates to our training programs. Our traditional 9-month Pre-Employment Course is being replaced with a Direct Entry Block System, allowing apprentices to enter the field much earlier — fully equipped with essential safety certifications and hands-on training that mirrors real-world jobsite conditions. This new approach will strengthen communication between the Apprenticeship Team and contractors, ensuring better support and follow-up on the progress of probationary members before they become part of our Union.
Looking ahead, we’re also modernizing our CWB Welding Program with the introduction of Virtual Reality (VR) welding simulators — giving first-time welders a chance to build confidence before stepping into the shop.
With upgraded classrooms, cutting-edge equipment, and dedicated instructors, our goal is to provide the highest quality training experience in a positive, inclusive environment — empowering every participant to build a strong and successful career in the ironworking industry.
Apprenticeship Training is under construction. Stay tuned for updates!
Exciting Changes Are Coming to Our Apprenticeship Program!
We’re transforming our traditional 9-month Pre-Employment Program into a modern Direct Entry and Block Training System — designed to better support apprentices and meet the needs of today’s industry.
We’re now accepting applications in preparation for these exciting updates! Stay tuned to our website for the latest news and details on the program launch. Big things are on the way — and we can’t wait to welcome the next generation of apprentices!
Safety Training
Ensuring a safe work environment is our top priority. Our safety training courses cover essential topics such as fall protection, confined space entry, WHMIS, and more. These programs equip members with the knowledge and skills needed to maintain workplace safety and compliance with industry regulations.
- Fall Protection (2 day)
- Fall Protection Recert (1 day)
- Confined Space (2 day)
- Powerline Hazards (1/2 day)
- Overhead Crane Safety (1 day)
- Telehandler Safety (1 day)
- Mobile Elevated Work Platform (MEWP) Safety (1 day)
- Rigging (2 day)
- Emergency First Aid (1 day)
- Standard First Aid (2 day)
- Energy Safety Canada Fall Protection (1 day)
- Energy Safety Canada MEWP (1/2 day)
- Energy Safety Canada H2S Alive (1 day)
- First aid courses and ESC courses have a small fee for members.
Training Calendar
Subject to change. To book training call: (709) 747-2158 or email: cjackson@ironworkerslocal764.com.
Fully Accredited CWB Welding Test Center
Our training center offers a fully equipped, modern weld test facility. We provide CWB welding tests for the following types :
- SMAW (T and S Class)
- FCAW
- Stainless Steel
- Decking
All SMAW processes use 7018 electrodes except stainless.
Interprovincial Certification “Red Seal” Refresher Course
At Ironworkers Education and Training Co. Inc., we offer a refresher course funded through the Provincial government. The students are allowed to overview all aspects of the Ironworker trade and to enhance their chances of being successful at their attempt at the Interprovincial Red Seal exam.
The benefits of holding a Red Seal are numerous, including increased mobility for individuals seeking employment. The Red Seal serves as a mark of excellence, assuring employers that the employee meets the industry’s established trade standards.
Successful completion also allows individuals to access funding programs, such as Post-Journey Training, which covers the cost of further training.
Direct Entry Training
Direct Entry is available for individuals who have worked in the trade but have not yet accumulated the required 7,200 hours for Red Seal Certification. The Department of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills requires these individuals to complete the technical (theory) training of the Ironworker program.
To be eligible to write the Interprovincial “Red Seal” exam, participants must complete all required courses and accumulate the necessary working hours.
Trade Qualifier
Individuals who have accumulated at least 7,200 hours in the ironworking trade and have completed the necessary documentation from the Department of Advanced Education, Skills, and Labour—such as the application to be examined and the mandatory skills sign-off sheet—may qualify as a Trade Qualifier.
Once approved by the Department of Education, they can write the Red Seal certification exam and, if successful, obtain their Interprovincial Certification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why become an Ironworker Apprentice?
- Enjoy teamwork
- Enjoy working outdoors
- Willing to face challenges
- Opportunity to earn while you learn
- Fulfillment out of accomplishing a great day’s work
- Great pay and incentives
What does an Ironworker Apprentice do?
- Erects structural steel buildings, bridges, and other structures
- Installation of reinforcing and port-tensioning systems
- Rigging of structural components and machinery
- Dismantling of structural systems in buildings, bridges, and other structures
- Use of rigging systems, including cranes
- Use of welding and cutting equipment in the fabrication and installation of structural components and their maintenance.
What do I need to become an Ironworker Apprentice?
- Minimum of 18 years of age
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Have a good mechanical aptitude
- Commitment to teamwork and a good work ethic
- Be in good physical shape and agile
- Be willing to work hard and be committed to the team
Training Centre Staff
Kim Roche
Training Coordinator / Instructor
kroche@ironworkerslocal764.com
Lori Bendell
Safety Instructor
lori@ironworkerslocal764.com
Robert Lush
Instructor
rlush@ironworkerslocal764.com
Shawn Simms
Welding Supervisor
ssimms@ironworkerslocal764.com
Alison Willette
Office Manager / Instructor
alison@ironworkerslocal764.com
Chris Jackson
Office Admin
cjackson@ironworkerslocal764.com