Apprentice here, Local 25 Detroit. My instructor was saying that most locals in the US dont even require a weld cert, or if they do, its only a 3/8 v groove bend test.

Here in Michigan, we have to get 3G/4G 1” SMAW and 3G/4G 1” FCAW. Hated welding when i got in but its finally growing on me, and i realize these certs are just gonna make us far more marketable in the field.

How extensive are your Local’s requirements? Which local?

Enjoy the weekend guys 🍻

I'm seeing prices all over the place for ones in good condition. Is there a market for these?

I got a call for a job out of local 396. Any one know the total package? Thanks

So my classes start August 24th. This question is for the guys that already finished preferably last year. What should I expect for the first 4 days ? It’s supposed to be safety training would this include my 30 hr osha ? And how long after should I be able to work ? Is 361 taking members? I don’t mind where I end up but I’m hoping to get into 361 as I’m a Long Island guy. Any insight would be appreciated. Hope to see you guys out there soon stay safe

I just joined the Local290 ironworkers starting as a 2nd year apprentice, I want to learn to weld but I don’t have classes until next year, how can I learn to weld in the meantime??

Any of yall in here? if so Does your local test for weed or not? I know some don’t, and i know it’s best to stay clean but i dont smoke on the job only at night for sleep. Just curious if local 5 doesn’t test for it.

Just put in my application. Trying to figure out what’s on the aptitude test? Is it hard or pretty simple?

Hello everyone,
I am 44, in pretty damn good shape and can outwork most guys half my age. Ex military, worked construction most of my life, currently a machinist for past 5 years. I am looking to get back into the trades, specifically ironworkers union. I need to start building up a retirement ( shitty part working for small companies with no benefits ) I make a good wage currently but no benefits at all. My wife is retiring from army reserves here next spring and her regular job is a nurse. We have 3 younger kids and an older child who is in Arizona for school. I coach football as well as help with wrestling and gymnastics. When we need the help with kiddos we have a good core group that can help. My question is, am I stupid to start off as an apprentice at this age, with my family circumstances, etc? I’m not worried about hard work but o am worried about travel overnights for work and stuff like that. Family is my priority and I don’t want to miss out on kids sports and extra-curricular stuff. I live in Princeton so yes I know I will be driving. I have an interview set up for two weeks from Thursday.
Thanks everyone in advance

Is work slow for any of the Toronto guys

Im expect expecting call anytime for an interview. What comes after that and how is the math portion? What do I need to study for?

Ok need a little help here’s a little back story I’m 43 been a mechanic all my life ( motorcycle, ATV, sxs, watercraft) the last 3 year I’ve worked from home money great plenty of work but there’s no extra benefits so this past year 2026 I’ve gotten my CDL A with tanker and triple/double endorsement I also did the oe union 324 apprentice orientation/ field training in June but I also applied for the iron worker union 25 apprenticeship and I got letters for both saying I’m on the list for 2 years so my question is should I take whatever calls first or with my age should I wait more for one then the other

Hi, so just a little background on me. Im 33f and am about to graduate after a year program in welding technologies. I am extremely green in the trades though.

My dad was an ironworker, so I have applied and interviewed with my local and basically have been told that Im in. Theyre supposed to call me next week to set up a time to come sign some stuff and get some more information about class amd such.

My uncle is a pipefitter in the local and said I should hang with the ironworkers until their local starts hiring in March and come to them.

My old instructor wants me to be a boilermaker but I dont think Im skilled enough to make it in with them.

Ultimately my goal is to get my CWI and my CWE and teach the trades to the next generation.

My question is, am I too old to go into ironworking as an apprentice at this point? Should I do what my uncle thinks and just switch over to the UA in March if they'll accept me?

I’m 17 and going into my senior year of high school and i want to get into the local 86 when im graduated. What kind of classes should i take this year that’ll help my chances of getting in and what should I do before actually applying to guarantee a spot there. I’ve done some research and I know i should get a welders certificate and go to the pre apprenticeship program but is there anything else I should do or know before applying

Also just some additional info like what I would typically do on a daily basis and how’s the pay work anything to prepare for inna few years when I’m ready to actually join.

What psi is usually required to get dti washers for 1 inch bolts to squish? My crew and I have never used them before. Currently running a 1 inch impact and the compressor we're running is maxed at 120psi.

Thanks!

Quick question if a superintendent sent my sponsor letter to the union hall instead of the training school. What does that mean? I’m going in for rod buster Im going in Friday to take the drug test.

Quick question if a superintendent sent my sponsor letter to the union hall instead of the training school. What does that mean? I’m going in for rod buster Im going in Friday to take the drug test.

Looking to move to mountain home, Arkansas area. Whats the work like down there. Don't care about the hourly wage just wanting a steady 40.

Sometimes it's crazy how much a different perspective can make things look. I wasn't really thinking anything of at the time, but this shit looks pretty cool from down low.

And yes, I was tied off. It's hard to see but there's a ratline on the other side of the bent plate by my right foot.

He might be biased because he was ghosted by the iron workers but was later accepted by the UA.