Ironworkers Local 25: Building More Than Just Structures

Anthony, Logan, Kellen and Matt, four first-year apprentices from Ironworkers Local 25 shared their experiences in the Ironworker Local 25 Registered Apprenticeship Program.

When asked what motivated them to apply, one registered apprentice laughed and admitted, “honestly I was originally told I could make like 20 plus dollars an hour just to fire watch, but funny enough in the time I have been here I have yet to do any fire watching.” 

As a group, the registered apprentices agreed that the most enjoyable part of the job is the people they work with. “It doesn’t matter what your background is, the Ironworkers have a place for you.”  Another added they sometimes joke about being “misfits,” but within Local 25 they’ve found a true sense of belonging.

Kellen, a woman apprentice, advises other women considering this career path was frank but encouraging: “It’s tough sometimes, but it is what it is, you have to put the work in. And it may be a little scary, but it is totally worth it.”

Together, the registered apprentices’ stories highlight the strength of the Ironworkers Local 25 Registered Apprenticeship Program: a supportive community, great wages and opportunity for anyone who is willing to put in the effort.

More information on how to become an Ironworker registered apprentice can be found here.