New York, NY – Ironworkers Local 580 are deservedly proud of their handiwork. They have contributed mightily to New York’s skyline and architecture. The range of their contributions is vast – from architectural stairs that are the centerpiece of a hotel lobby to jail cell doors and beyond, they have left the imprint of their impressive and demanding work.
Outstanding Apprentice of the Year Gregory Bryant is one of the brotherhood. The East Islip, Long Island native has “union blood” in him, as he puts it: his grandfather, George Bryant was a WWII veteran and a Local 638 Steamfitter, as was his uncle.
Bryant came to the trade after he heard about the Local through a friend. Previously, he had “dabbled” in sales/business, but was lucky enough to be called in after completing the application. He took the required test, and fulfilled other requirements, and he was on his way.
Bryant, who graduated from the 4-year apprentice program in 2022, looks back on his experience and some of what he learned. “At the training center you’re shown how to simplify ornamental iron work by grasping basic principles and expanding on them through experience. Math and terminology are important. The theory and skill of welding while getting to practice hands-on in a booth will keep you busy. Blueprints, leadership training and problem solving help you become a professional. Mock ups of different details including curtain wall, cable/glass rails, and column covers get your hands on the tools.”
While he was an apprentice, he worked on the residential tower above the famous MoMA Museum on West 53rd Street in Manhattan, the Javits Center, which hosts hundreds of thousands at its conventions every year, and the David H. Koch Center for Cancer Care at Memorial Sloan Kettering Hospital, among other sites across Manhattan and Queens.
“I’ve done a mix of curtain wall, window wall, and miscellaneous metal work off of suspended scaffolds and building maintenance units (BMUs) along with other various things in this vast industry,” he continues.
“You implement the skills I mentioned above in the field, and learn from your fellow members how to be efficient and most importantly stay safe. I enjoy the mix of physical and mental challenges you face every day. Starting from scratch and beginning on the right path with a detail or complicated project as a whole is a difficult and very important task. Local 580 always finds a way.”
For the benefit of those who might be interested in the trade, Bryant explains, “I didn’t go through any specific programs but I highly recommend them to get some background training. I was lucky enough to learn some basics from an old boss who broke me into the construction business. I’ve been extra blessed to have parents who have shown resilience and that hard work pays off. My family, friends and kind, hardworking girlfriend have only added positive situations.”
The 30-year-old, who grew up observing the union men in his family reap the rewards of membership, now speaks with his own knowledge. “The value to being in a union is endless. The skills and expertise are one of a kind. Benefits including health, dental and retirement give you security. Our leaders at the hall stress the importance of hard work, safety, and unity. The bonds you make with your classmates, instructors, and co-workers, from the head boss to the new guy are timeless. Shout out to Local 580 members before me and everyone who brought me into this business.”
He ends with this tribute, “The future is bright and I hope I can always give back to greatest Local in the world.”
