Chicago – September 07, 2026 -- Illinois Governor JB Pritzker addressed more than 1,000 ironworkers from the United States and Canada at the International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers' 45th International Convention, held in Chicago from August 31 through September 4.
Union delegates gather to set policy for 130,000 North American members
The convention brings together ironworkers, union leaders and industry partners to elect officers, set policy and adopt the union's agenda for the next five years. The Iron Workers Union represents 130,000 members across North America who work on bridges, structural steel, ornamental and architectural metals, clean energy infrastructure, rebar and fabrication shops.
Demand for skilled labor rises on infrastructure and data center construction
The union cites growing demand for skilled ironworkers driven by infrastructure projects, manufacturing expansion, energy development and large-scale data center construction across North America. Kevin Bryenton, General President of the International Association of Iron Workers, said the union aims to create good jobs, strengthen communities and advance industry conversations as demand for safe, skilled union labor increases.
Convention theme centers on workforce expansion and safety standards
The 45th International Convention operates under the theme "Forging Our Future: Strength Beyond Steel,