Ironworkers fabricate, erect, or dismantle the structural steel framework of pre-engineered metal buildings, single and multi-story buildings, stadiums, arenas, hospitals, factories, utility plants, towers, wind turbines, bridges, or other structures.
As iron became a common building material, carpenters who built wooden bridges became ironworkers by the 1880s. The production of cast iron parts in larger and larger sizes necessitated the use of cranes, which were used in the early 1900s to construct high-rises and other tall structures. Cranes lifted steel girders into place, and rivets connected the girders to the structure's columns.
Ironworkers work with iron to create buildings, reinforce structures, or create decorative iron constructions. Ironworkers also perform various types of industrial maintenance.
Ironworkers may be classified as structural ironworkers, who assemble cranes in order to lift the steel columns, beams, girders, and trusses according to structural blueprints; reinforcing ironworkers, who works with reinforcing bars (rebar) to make structures based on specific designs; and ornamental ironworkers, who erect metal windows, doors, screens, stairways, catwalks, railings, fencing, gates, platforms, and ladders, welding iron parts together or fastening them with bolts.
The work of an ironworker is often physically demanding and dangerous, as much of it is performed at great heights.
Typically, a high school diploma or the equivalent is required in order to enter an apprenticeship, although it may not be necessary for those who learn through on-the-job training. Courses in math and training in reading blueprints and welding are helpful.
Many ironworkers learn the trade through an apprenticeship program that may last 3-4 years. Often sponsored by unions or contractor associations, these programs teach both reinforcing and structural ironworking. Each year of the apprenticeship will typically include 144 hours of related technical instruction and 2,000 hours of paid on-the-job training.
Upon completion of an apprenticeship, the ironworker is considered a journey-level worker and qualified to perform tasks without direct supervision.
Other ironworkers might learn the job through on-the-job training that will vary in length.
Apprentices and on-the-job trainees learn to use the tools and equipment of the trade, as well as to handle, measure, cut, and lay rebar, and to construct metal frameworks. They will also learn to read blueprints, sketch plans, general construction, and safety practices.
While requirements will vary by jurisdiction, certification in welding, rigging, and crane signaling can be an advantage, and several organizations provide certifications for different aspects of the trade. The American Welding Society (AWS) offers welding certification, while other organizations, such as the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) and the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER), offer certifications in rigging and other relevant competencies.
Ironworkers may be eligible for membership in the International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental, and Reinforcing Iron Workers.
Recommended Resources
Founded in 1895, the Albert Lea, Minnesota, company sells hydraulic ironworker machines and related metalworking equipment online, positioning itself as a long-standing manufacturer of metalworking machinery. Visitors to the site can browse by category to compare tonnage and tool compatibility, and find operation manuals, product registration, warranty and parts information, and customer service options. Listed prices may not include shipping, installation, or local taxes.
https://edwardsironworkers.com/
Iron Contractors is a national directory that lists wrought iron and related fencing, gates, railings, and door contractors across the United States. The website features contractor listings, photo galleries (portfolios), customer reviews, an informational blog, and a contact/membership area for contractors. Its contractor directory is searchable by state and includes several landing pages, and its blog discusses repairs, pool fences, and regional projects.
https://www.ironcontractors.com/
The International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers (Iron Workers) Union is a North American trade union with roots dating to the 1890s. It has around 120,000 members across the United States and Canada, some of whom have worked on landmark projects such as the Golden Gate Bridge, the Sears Tower, and the Saint Louis Arch. The union sponsors an apprenticeship program to become a journeyman ironworker, and offers advanced courses to journeymen.
https://www.ironworkers.org/
Ironworker Employers Association
The Ironworker Employers Association of Western Pennsylvania (IWEA) is an organization committed to furthering the ironworking industry while promoting quality, safety, and excellence. Intended for ironworkers, contractors, owners, developers, and association members, the website features OSHA updates, project photographs, contractor biographies, and upcoming project information, which is a special benefit to its membership. The IWEA is a Local Employer Organization member of the TAUC.
https://iwea.org/
Ironworker Learning Management System
The Ironworker LMS hosts the online portions of Ironworker apprenticeship training, including electronic reference manuals, homework, and tests. Students access enrollments under the "My Dashboard" section. Key features include electronic reference manuals, homework assignments, and tests. The subjects covered include blueprint reading, tool care and use, mathematics, safety, welding, and oxy-acetylene cutting. Apprentices receive at least 204 hours of classroom and shop instruction per year.
https://ironworkers.personalearning.com/
Ironworker Management Progressive Action Cooperative Trust
I.M.P.A.C.T. is a joint labor-management organization that supports ironworkers and their contractors through training, safety, workforce development, and member services. Its key programs and services include online safety training, safety webcasts, and an archive of safety calls and webinars for members, along with other resources and programs that expand job opportunities and support contractor growth. A member directory and a member-only portal are included.
https://www.impact-net.org/
Mashack Frederick Iron Works provides historic ironwork restoration, custom iron fabrication, and installation services in the Washington, D.C. area. They restore and create iron fences, porches, railings, and other architectural ironwork, and offer expert installation and fabrication. Key services include historic restorations, custom fabrication, and on-site installation of restored or newly fabricated ironwork. Its services, a photo gallery, an informational blog, and contacts are featured,
https://www.mashackiron.com/
Boasting over 60 years of experience, Northeast Iron Works is a family-owned iron contractor in Washington, D.C., offering custom functional and decorative metalwork for residential and commercial clients. Key products and services include security gates, window guards, air-conditioning cases, stairs, railings, and small structural steel. They custom-make gates, staircases, window guards, and other ironwork to client specifications. Photos, options, and contacts are provided.
https://www.northeastironworksinc.com/
This is the official website for the New York City Iron Workers Local 40 & 361 Joint Apprenticeship Program, offering information for members, contractors, and recruits. Its primary programs include apprenticeships in welding, SST safety courses, tower crane lift director, rigger/signalman, scaffold, MEWP, and flagger. Other resources include training provider alerts, course schedules, refreshers, SST card types, and information on registering for a class or exam.
https://nycironworkers.org/
