Journeymen – Experience and Training Matter

Ironworker journeymen maintain consistency in their abilities through on-the-job experience. The most successful – and the ones sought out by contractors – also keep current in their craft by constantly learning new skills. That helps them build dependable careers and earn rewarding salaries.

Local 229 offers free classes to journeymen year-round to upgrade their individual skills – which, in turn, raises the quality level of the union workforce that contractors seek. That helps all members stay employable and in demand in the marketplace.

Here’s a list of the free upgrade classes available for Ironworker Local 229 journeymen during the next few months. A nominal registration fee that reserves each member’s class spot is refunded on the first day of class. To register, or for more information, contact Jack Gavett, Local 229’s apprenticeship and training coordinator, at apprenticeship@local229.org or at 858-505-9414.

Journeyman upgrading classes

1. Welding (all processes)
2. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 10-Hour Safety Training
3. First Aid / Certified Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Training (6-hour class)
4. Forklift Training (4-6-hour class)
5. Scaffold User
6. Lead-Hazard Training (32-hour class)
7. Post-Tensioning Certification
8. Mine, Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) (9-32-hour class)
9. Qualified Rigger
10. Sub Part R Training

National Labor College , an AFL-CIO institution in Silver Spring, Md., and Ivy Tech Community College , a public college with campuses throughout Indiana, are institutions that grant up to 42 college credits to graduates of Local 229’s apprenticeship program.  Local 229 members can enroll anytime to begin work online toward completing an associate or bachelor degree by visiting the Web site of either college.

Commitment Makes the Difference

Getting involved with the labor movement strengthens the individuals who commit their time and talent — and strengthens the local unions they represent. Ironworker Local 229 provides its members several ways to volunteer.

Attending meetings held by Ironworker Local 229 encourages discussion of critical issues and mutual support among members.

Local 229 sponsors a variety of events throughout the year that strengthen the union bond, including social gatherings and community service projects .

Supporting political-action activities helps communicate to government officials and legislators the needs and opinions of the constituents they serve.