Career Close-Up: Ironworker
An ironworker builds strong and safe structures like bridges, buildings, and stadiums. They place and secure steel bars inside concrete so the structures can handle heavy loads and last for many years. Introduce your students to the ironworker career path with the activities below.
- What does an ironworker do? Watch the video below.
- What does an ironworker need to be successful? Click on the skill cards below to see how they use these three skills. Which of these skills do you have? Which would you need to work on, and how would you do it?
- Research the educational path of an ironworker. What companies hire them? What related careers exist?
- Ironworkers use the latest in manufacturing technology! Consider how their tools (robots, 3D models, wearable technology) and tasks (programming) might change in the next 10 years.
Tool Tech Challenge! Design a high-tech tool that reinforcing steel ironworkers could use to increase efficiency on the job.
Skill match: Why would an ironworker need these skills?
Skill #1:
Teamwork
Ironworkers communicate constantly and work together like a well-coordinated team.
Skill #2:
Physical Strength
Moving steel and using tools takes strength, balance, and skill to get the job done safely and confidently.
Skill #3:
Attention to Detail
Getting every measurement and steel bar just right helps make sure the building is strong and ready for anything!