CHICAGO, Sept. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Illinois Governor JB Pritzker addresses more than 1,000 ironworkers from across the United States and Canada during the International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers’ 45th International Convention in Chicago.
The convention, taking place August 31 through September 4, brings together ironworkers, union leaders and industry partners from across North America to elect officers, set policy and adopt the union’s agenda for the next five years.
Governor Pritzker’s appearance highlights the importance of ironworkers to Illinois’ economy and the state’s continued investment in infrastructure, construction, manufacturing, and a highly trained workforce.
“Ironworkers are building the infrastructure that keeps Illinois and all of North America moving forward,” said Kevin Bryenton, General President of the International Association of Iron Workers. “As demand grows for safe, skilled union labor, we’re proud to welcome Governor Pritzker and continue the conversations that help create good jobs, strengthen our communities and move our industry forward.”
For the Iron Workers, the convention comes at a time of major opportunity across the construction industry.
Demand for skilled ironworkers continues to grow across North America driven by infrastructure projects, manufacturing expansion, energy development, data centers and other large-scale construction. The union remains focused on ensuring that work creates family-supporting careers, maintains high safety standards and strengthens the future of the skilled trades.
The 45th International Convention is held under the theme “Forging Our Future: Strength Beyond Steel,” reflecting the union’s focus on strengthening membership, expanding opportunities and preparing for the challenges ahead.
The Iron Workers Union (IW) represents 130,000 ironworkers in North America who work in construction on bridges; structural steel; ornamental, architectural, clean energy, and miscellaneous metals; rebar; and in fabrication shops.
View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/governor-jb-pritzker-to-address-ironworkers-at-45th-international-convention-in-chicago-302867677.html
SOURCE Iron Workers Union
