HOW TO GET THERE
Typical pathway
A typical pathway into ironwork often starts with secondary school courses that build math, shop, and problem-solving skills. Many people then enter the trade through an apprenticeship or related training route, where they learn on the job and in classroom instruction. Experience with construction tools, safety practices, and working at heights may be useful. Over time, workers can develop specialized skills in structural steel, reinforcing, or related ironworking tasks.
THE WORK
What you may do
- erect and install structural steel
- bolt, weld, or connect steel components
- rig and move materials into place
- work from drawings and plans
- use tools and equipment on job sites
- inspect and adjust assemblies
- follow safety procedures on construction sites
A DAY IN THE LIFE
What a day can include
A day in the life of an ironworker often begins with a safety meeting and a review of the day’s plans. Work may include lifting and fitting steel parts, securing connections, using hand and power tools, and working with a crew to position materials accurately. Because job sites can change often, the work can vary from one project to the next. The job is usually physical and may involve outdoor conditions and working at different heights.
SKILLS TO BUILD