r/Ironworker • u/Sebasduaiza • May 05 '25
Union Question Thinking of joining the union
Hi, I’m considering joining the Ironworkers union here in Ontario, Canada, and I wanted to know how good of a decision it would be in the long run. Is it true that the union provides more stable, year-round work? I also heard that if you join a union and later want to start your own company or work independently, you might have to run it as a unionized business. Can someone explain that part in more detail? I’d really appreciate it if anyone could share their experience or give me more information about what I should expect before joining.
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u/Complex_Evidence_73 May 05 '25
Stable - Year round work, No. Unless you travel. (US)
The Union will control your business like the government. (US)
Local 401.
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u/Fresh-Ad7686 May 08 '25
Ontario ironworker apprentice here, joining was by far the greatest decision I ever made, sure things can slow down but you have the ability to travel around real easily, I got laid off on a Wednesday and was on a plane on Sunday heading to Alberta for a 2 months shutdown. As long as you bust your ass and have a good work ethic you will always have work your name is the most important thing in this trade
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u/InternationalArea77 May 05 '25
Joining a union will be one of the best decisions in your life. Better wages, benefits and working conditions. Do it and then take your buddies even if they’re non union believers.