SEAA Ironworker Apprenticeship Standards Approved by U.S. DOL

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (Nov. 3, 2014)—The Steel Erectors Association of America (SEAA) announced that its Ironworker Apprenticeship program has been approved by the U.S. Department of Labor.

John Ladd, the Office of Apprenticeship Administrator for the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration, has found SEAA’s National Guidelines for Apprenticeship Standards to be in compliance with Title 29, Code of Federal Regulations parts 29 and 30. Ladd signed these guidelines on October 27, 2014. Bulletins will be distributed to all State Apprenticeship Agencies in the next few weeks.

This approval provides a template for SEAA member companies to use in establishing Registered Apprenticeship programs throughout the country. Companies using these guidelines will help to build standardization and consistency in Ironworker craft training for the industry.

“A long-term goal of SEAA is to overcome projected craft-worker shortages in our industry by creating programs for its members so that they can be prosperous and profitable long into the future,” said Steve Burkholder, SEAA president.

SEAA’s DOL-approved Ironworker Apprenticeship Program allows SEAA members to create formal training that meets specified standards and is recognized by Federal and State governments. With this program, companies can assess current and new employee knowledge and skill, and determine training needs and entry levels for apprentices. Companies will also be able to design training prescriptions for Journeyman Level workers to fill any gaps found in knowledge and skills.

“The Ironworker Apprenticeship allows merit-shop contractors to utilize government approved apprenticeship rates on Davis Bacon Wage Projects in lieu of paying full journeyman wages for all employees, regardless of their level of training. Ultimately, these programs increase competitive pricing for all of the industry,” said Burkholder.

“Programs like these, achieved through the collective efforts of SEAA volunteers, benefits SEAA members as a whole. We are pleased to offer this additional membership benefit to SEAA erectors across the nation,” said Tom Underhill, SEAA executive director.