Ironworkers Local 549 Announces Major Expansion

Wheeling, W.Va. (WTRF-TV) With an eye on the future, Ironworkers Local 549 announced a multi-million-dollar expansion project at its Wheeling Headquarters today.

The new, expanded facility will include a hands-on learning space for welding, traditional classrooms, a large gathering space for meetings and ADA-compliant bathrooms and an elevator.

This expansion will allow up to 90 apprentices to complete their training per year, increasing the output of skilled ironworkers in the Tri-State area.

“I think a lot of people, younger people don’t know all the avenues they have. When they come out of high school, it’s not just always college. Some kids it is, but some kids it isn’t, and we try to get the word out, let’s let them know that there are other avenues, and this facility will house up to 60 more apprentices. So, it’s just going to be great for all the future projects that are coming up. We’re going to need more younger people, and they are the future of our local. When I retire, they’ll carry on here.”

Kenny Smigle – Business Agent, Local 549

The project is partly funded by a grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission worth 1.75 million dollars.

Ironworkers Local 549 is matching the funds for the project, bringing the grand total to 3.5 million dollars.

Many large projects around the Ohio Valley have been completed by Ironworkers Local 549, including the Wheeling Suspension Bridge, and J.B. Chambers Performing Arts Center at Wheeling Park High School.

Some upcoming projects include phase 2 of the Form Energy Battery Plant in Weirton and WVU Cancer Center in Morgantown.

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