Ironworkers Union to Host Day of Learning and Networking in Maryland
September 1, 2011

The Ironworkers Management Progressive Action Cooperative Trust (IMPACT) of Washington, D.C., the labor-management arm of the International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers (IABSO&RIW) of Washington, D.C., will host Steel Day, a hands-on, interactive day of learning about the steel industry on September 23 in Workers Local 5 Union Hall, Upper Marlboro, Md. The event is intended to bring together architects, engineers, contractors and students.

"Steel Day is an exciting time because it gives members of the community a unique chance to become an ironworker for the day," says Kenny Waugh, IMPACT director of industry liaisons and coordinator for the Steel Day event.

Attendees won't just shadow ironworkers as they do their jobs, Waugh says. They are invited to install glass, try bolting and use a torch to cut steel. "We'll even get them in a harness so they can climb columns with some ironworkers, if they want," he says. Attendees also will attend a presentation about the structural steel supply chain.

In addition to hands-on activities and lectures, continuing education courses from the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) in Chicago, and the National Steel Bridge Alliance (NSBA), a division of the AISC, will showcase students' bridge models. An award will be presented to the winning design during the daylong event.

Steel Day will start at 9 a.m., and will be open to the public. Lunch will be provided onsite. Visit the website to learn more, or to RSVP.

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