Ironworkers Show Skills of Bridge Building Jobs

The crowd claps and cheers Saturday afternoon, July 28, as ironworkers demonstrate rivet tossing, a working forge, and I-beam crossing techniques at Bridge View Park. The beams were constructed early in the week to give viewers a better understanding of the working conditions and balance needed to perform these jobs. Referring to the 80 degree temperatures and the workers wearing long pants, hard hats, and tool belts, 31-year ironworker veteran Bill Mikado said, "You have to wear this type of clothing." Mr. Mikado (not pictured), who worked on the Mackinac Bridge during the underdeck traveler replacement project in 2000 and 2001, now is a member of the ironworkers festival committee. Pictured are Charlie Faulkner (left) from Ironworkers Local 8, who demonstrates a beam crossing as he moves toward Judd Convse of Ironworkers Local 25.