Ironworkers Local 229, Councilwoman Marti Emerald and other elected officials celebrate the opening of the University of Iron Oct. 27. | Video Credit: Brian Myers, Media Arts Center San Diego
By Brian Myers
When it comes to grand openings, a ribbon cutting isn’t satisfactory for ironworkers.
With sparks flying Local 229 of The International Association of Bridge and Structural Ironworkers cut through a steel beam to announce the opening of their new University of Iron training center off Home Avenue in Fairmount Park.
The $7 million facility offers ironwork experience and safety training to high school graduates and equivalents for the union’s four year paid apprenticeship program.
Apprentices to the trade are paid at half the union starting rate and upon completing the program as journeymen are eligible for full union pay starting at $33.50 per hour.
District 9 Councilwoman Marti Emerald applauded the local union for investing in trade development in a region with concentrated poverty and low wages earners.
“They build the great towers, they build our cities, they build our hospitals, they build our roads and bridges,” Emerald said. “And this facility is going to make a lasting difference for a new generation of men and women who weave a stronger fabric for our community.”
The application window for the apprenticeship program is ongoing and those interested can contact Ironworkers Local 229.