Portland's Silicon Valley

Steel fabrication careers that provide family wage jobs, waiting to be filled.

Chuck Bolland for Ironworkers Shopmen’s Local 516, Portland

Portland’s steel fabrication industry is rapidly becoming as known for its economic impact in Oregon as the Silicon Valley is to California or aerospace in Washington State. Airplanes and high-tech gadgets often get the spotlight but the vast construction industry relies on the infrastructure produced by Oregon fabrication plants.

Once skyscraper shells become architectural wonders, freeways are paved and bridges are completed the steel underpinnings, the backbones of these projects, become less visible. However out of the spotlight steel fabrication remains foundational to bridge, building and highway construction as well as to the Pacific Northwest economy.

Phil Casciato, Business Manager of Ironworkers Shopmen’s Local 516, emphasizes the availability of employment opportunities in this robust industry. “If someone has a welding certificate he or she could be at work within days. There are nine union fabrication plants in the area from Vancouver to Canby and all rely on qualified welders and fabricators. We could put 30 to work in the next month.”

Mr. Casciato goes on to stress the advantage of Union membership in the steel fabrication industry. “Rigorous training in union trades result in highly skilled workers and outstanding safety records—valuable assets for employers. At no cost, workers can utilize the union’s shop facilities to upgrade welding certifications and print reading skills, leading to higher pay. Hourly wages in fabrication shops currently average between $24 - $28 plus benefit packages including family health care coverage, dental care, retirement, sick leave and paid vacation. This contributes to a workplace of fairness and dedication valued by labor and management.”

Business leaders project the outlook for steel fabrication to remain strong in the coming years. Mr Casciato states, “current contracts on company books point to four to eight years of work as bidding on further projects continues.

The Union is eager to hear from prospective employees who have a welding certificate or want to earn one. Contact information: Ironworkers Shopmen’s Local 516 (Phone 503-257-4743); Business Manager Phil Casciato (503-407-3324) or Laramie Lexow (503) 567-5031.