Ironworkers Local 89
5000 J Street SW
Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
319-365-8675
Contact: Terry Usher
ORGANIZATION:
Local #89 was founded in 1905. The Apprenticeship program has been in existence for 28 years.
The mission and purpose of the association is to provide skilled labor required for erecting structural steel, heavy rigging, place reinforcing steel, erect ornamental ironwork, and welding.
Local #89 serves all of the following counties: Mitchell, Howard, Winneshiek, Allamakee, Floyd, Chickasaw, Butler, Bremer, Fayette, Clayton, Grundy, Blackhawk, Buchanan, Delaware, Dubuque, Tama, Benton, Linn, Jones, and Iowa. We also serve a portion of Washington, Cedar, Clinton and Jackson, as well as Jo Davies in Illinois.
NATURE OF TRADE:
The trade of Ironwork involves working both at great heights and underground. It includes the fabrication, production, erection and construction of all iron, steel, ornamental metals, bronze, etc., and the application of all sealants. The trade includes working on structural, ornamental, and reinforcing ironwork.
Structural Iron Workers erect, assemble, or install fabricated metal products in the construction of industrial, commercial and large buildings. They erect the steel framework of bridges, buildings, and other structures including metal storage tanks and overhead crane runways that support heavy-equipment. They also install steel decking, do riveting and welding operations.Ornamental Iron Workers install metal stairways, catwalks, floor gratings, iron ladders, metal window sash and doors, grilles and screens, and bank equipment. They also install gates and decorative iron work on balconies.Reinforcing Iron Workers set steel bars in concrete forms to reinforce concrete structures. They place the steel bars on suitable supports in the concrete form and tie the bars together at intersections so that each bar receives its intended structural load.APPRENTICESHIP TRAINING
The local apprenticeship program seeks to guarantee that all their members are properly trained and that they attain the skills necessary to uphold the standards of their craft. Ironworkers must complete a three-year apprenticeship program where they receive training in the skills and safety requirements of the trade. Apprentices receive on-the-job training as well as extensive course work in such areas as safety, welding, structural work, reinforcing, rigging, and blueprint reading. In addition, specialized training and certification programs are available to Journeyperson. Local Ironworkers have received specialized training in such areas as hazard communication, foreman preparation, and manlift safety.
During training, an apprentice receives 60% - 90% progressive rates each six months during a three-year training period. In addition, an apprentice receives all of the same benefits available to a journeyperson, such as health insurance, disability insurance, pension plan, and vacation.
QUALIFICATIONS
In order to be eligible as a candidate for an apprenticeship, an applicant must meet the following requirements:
· Must be at least 18 year of age
· Must have a high school diploma or equivalent
· Must complete a written examination
· Must be an U.S. citizen or have appropriate eligibility to work documents
In addition, other helpful characteristics considered by the Apprenticeship Committee include: military education, high school attendance records, efforts at continuing education beyond high school, and related work experience. While in high school, it may be helpful to develop a sound background of reading, writing, math, shop and drafting.
APPLICATION, SELECTION AND HIRING PROCESS
Applications are accepted annually and can be received by Ironworkers Local 89. Applicants meeting the minimum requirements will participate in a general aptitude exam and an oral interview with the Joint Apprenticeship Committee. All applicants meeting the requirements of the application process are then placed on a list according to score and are referred to apprenticeships, as openings become available.