What is an Ironworker?

An Ironworker is a tradesman who is an important part of the building and construction industry, responsible to perform many duties related to the construction industry. The various duties of the Ironworker are:

Reinforcing Ironworkers (Rodmen) place steel and post tensioning cables in concrete, as well as setting precast concrete into position. Structural Ironworkers erect steel members, which form framework of steel buildings. Ironworkers also install stairways, catwalks, handrails, floor plate, and grating.

Ironworkers erect Pre Engineered Metal Buildings; install metal siding and roof decking. Ornamental Ironworkers install window sash, metal curtain wall systems, ornamental and decorative structural steel members, doors and windows. Ironworkers also install fence, guard rail and bumper posts. Machinery movers and riggers are Ironworkers that install heavy machinery and equipment. Many times the fabrication and re-fabrication of steel is an important part of the job. The importance of being a certified welder, burner and layout person cannot be overstated. The ability to read blueprints and operate the transit is also important to Ironworkers.

Ironwork is an extremely hard and physically demanding trade. Because of the dangers of Ironwork, it is important to be a team player that works well with fellow workers to be sure the job is completed safely, on time and under budget.

What can I expect after I apply?

At the time of application you will be given a paper that informs you when and where to show for your DAT test. The DAT test is designed to test applicants in key areas directly related to successful job performance. All applications must be filled out in person at the apprenticeship Monday thru Friday from 9am-3pm.  If you miss the DAT test you will need to reapply and wait till the next scheduled test.

Any applicant scoring above 50% on DAT test will be invited to a physical attributes test.   This test will show that you can complete simple tasks that are asked of an ironworker.  The two tests will be averaged together to create the ranking list from which we pull the number of apprentices that are required to meet the need.  All applicant will remain on the ranking list for up to 2 years.

College or Trades School?

How about both.  The Ironworkers Apprenticeship has an articulation agreement with Northwest State Community college where college credits will transfer upon graduating from the Apprenticeship.  This is over half way to an associates degree.

Make sure you check out the Ironworkers FLICKR Page @ Union Ironworkers Photos

In the recruitment, selection, employment, treatment, and training of apprentices the Toledo Area Iron Workers Joint Apprenticeship Committee will not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), sexual orientation, genetic information, disability, Hispanic ethnicity, or age above forty years. The Toledo Area Iron Workers Joint Apprenticeship Committee will take affirmative action to provide equal opportunity in apprenticeship, and will operate the apprenticeship program as required under Title 29 of the Code of Federal Regulations, part 30, and the equal employment opportunity regulations of the state of Ohio.