Ironworkers create the framework supporting the structure of our cities. These “skywalkers” work high above, on narrow beams, risking their lives swinging steel into place, welding and rigging in the fog, sun and rain, changing our landscape one building at a time.
Traditionally, ironworking has been a male dominated profession with a strong brotherhood culture, making it difficult for women to break in. In recent years, in response to equal opportunity actions between labor unions, contractors, and the government, ironworker companies have been adding more women to their payroll.
Although we still only make up 1% of all ironworkers nationwide, women are starting to make their mark. Providing training and job opportunities in non-traditional careers gives women an alternate and viable way to build a secure future for themselves and their families.
The video above tells one woman’s story… in it, you’ll meet Lakeisha Jones, a proud ironworker on the Dudley Square project in Roxbury, MA.
You can find more information about nontraditional employment for women and opportunities in ironworking here.