Become an Iron Worker

Click here to read about our apprenticeship program at the University of Iron.

Iron Worker Career Overview

Nearly every building, bridge and road around you couldn’t have been constructed without the help of an iron worker. Steel pillars, supports and shafts are needed to build structures like office buildings and bridges, while steel shafts and grilles are used to support the concrete used to make tunnels, freeways and industrial buildings. On a job site, iron workers can have several tasks, ranging from riggers and machinery movers to ornamental iron working. As an iron worker you will learn how to read blueprints, operate heavy machinery, use a torch wrench and inspect framework. Best of all, at the end of the day you’ll see what you’ve accomplished, in the form of a steadily growing or completed structure.

Do you have what it takes?

Iron workers provide quality work to meet high standards. The work can be physically and mentally demanding. Because most iron work is done on construction sites, it’s important to note that working conditions are very different from what you may have experienced in an office environment. The work environment can often be noisy, with heavy lifting machines, compressors and welding machines all working simultaneously on a job site. The work can also be physically demanding, requiring heavy lifting, along with long hours of bending, sitting, climbing, standing and crouching. But the team environment, the respectable wage and the ability to see your work in the form of buildings, bridges and other structures makes it well worth the effort.

If you’re interested in becoming an iron worker, there are some important questions you should ask yourself.

• Do you take pride in your work?
• Do you enjoy working in a team environment?
• Is it important for you to see your work accomplish something?
• Are you interested in providing quality work that meets exacting building standards?
• Do you enjoy work that is both physically and mentally challenging?
• Do you want to work outdoors?
• Are you interested in a career that can provide you with a steady income while you’re going to school to learn new skills or working toward your college degree?
• Is a challenging career important to you?
• Do you enjoy constructing things, working with your hands?
• Do you want something more than “just a job”?

If this sounds like you, then we would encourage you to seek out an apprenticeship training program. One of the best ways to do this is by contacting your local union. We can help you identify your goals and give you information about what you need to do to become an apprentice and start working. Being an apprentice is an important part of becoming an iron worker, as it gives you the training and on-site experience you’ll need in order to succeed. For more information about our apprenticeship program, please visit the “Programs” section of this Web site. You can also check out our “FAQS” or contact us with any other questions you might have.