Ironworker Local 396 vs Insulator Local 1 in St. Louis — which trade would you choose at 20?
I’m in Saint Louis and trying to decide between becoming an ironworker with Local 396 or an insulator with Local 1. I’ve already applied and interviewed for the ironworkers, and I scored pretty highly, but I’m still wondering if it’s worth skipping that opportunity to go the insulator route instead.
From what I’ve learned, the pay seems almost exactly the same. Apprentice pay starts around $26/hr and journeyman pay tops out around $44/hr for both, so money doesn’t seem to be the biggest difference. What I’m less sure about is the benefits for the insulators, since I know the ironworkers have great benefits. I also know Local 1 insulators are trying to hire badly right now and are short on hands.
I don’t mind hard work at all, but I also don’t want to wreck my body to the point where I can barely move when I’m older from carrying rebar for 30+ years. I’m 20 years old, so I’m trying to think long term, not just about the next few years.
For anyone who’s been in either trade:
• Which one would you choose and why?
• How do the benefits compare?
• Which trade is easier on your body long term?
• Does being in a local that’s short on people make a big difference for work opportunities?
Any advice is appreciated.