Rodbuster

Rodbusters (Reinforcing Ironworkers) - Ironworkers Local 387

Become a Rodbuster in Georgia

Reinforcing Ironworker Apprenticeship & Careers

Rodbusters, also known as reinforcing ironworkers, install the steel reinforcement that strengthens concrete in buildings, bridges, highways, and other infrastructure. The steel bars they install — commonly called rebar — give concrete the strength it needs to support massive structures.

In Georgia, many rodbusters begin their careers through a union apprenticeship with Ironworkers Local 387 in Atlanta.

If you enjoy physical work, working outdoors, and being part of major construction projects that shape cities and infrastructure, becoming a reinforcing ironworker can offer strong wages, paid training, and long-term job stability.

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What Rodbusters Do

Rodbusters install reinforcing steel that strengthens concrete structures.

Their work includes:

• Placing and tying reinforcing steel bars (rebar)
• Installing steel mesh in concrete forms
• Reading structural drawings and rebar placement plans
• Cutting and bending steel reinforcement bars
• Securing rebar with wire ties and fasteners
• Working with concrete crews to prepare structural pours
• Installing reinforcement for foundations, columns, beams, and slabs

Reinforcing ironworkers must understand construction drawings, measurement, and proper placement of steel to ensure structural strength.

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Where Rodbusters Work

Rodbusters work on a wide range of construction and infrastructure projects across Georgia, including:

• Highway and bridge construction
• Commercial buildings
• Stadiums and arenas
• High-rise towers
• Parking structures
• Airport expansions
• Large foundations and concrete structures
• Industrial facilities

Their work is usually performed during the early structural stages of construction before concrete is poured.

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Example Projects Rodbusters Work On

Rodbusters help build critical infrastructure such as:

• Bridges and highway overpasses
• High-rise building foundations
• Stadiums and sports facilities
• Parking garages
• Airport terminals and infrastructure
• Large commercial buildings

Nearly every major concrete structure relies on reinforcing steel installed by skilled rodbusters.

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Rodbuster Apprenticeship Program

Most reinforcing ironworkers begin their careers through a registered apprenticeship program.

The Ironworkers Local 387 apprenticeship program includes:

• Paid on-the-job training
• Classroom instruction
• Hands-on reinforcing steel training

Apprentices earn wages while learning the trade and receive regular raises as their experience grows.

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How Long the Apprenticeship Takes

Reinforcing ironworker apprenticeship programs typically last:

3-4 years

During that time apprentices complete:

• Thousands of hours of on-the-job training
• Classroom instruction and safety training

Training includes:

• Rebar placement and tying
• Blueprint and structural drawing reading
• Steel cutting and bending
• Construction math and layout
• Rigging and material handling
• Construction safety procedures

After completing the program, apprentices become journeyman reinforcing ironworkers (rodbusters).

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Local Union for Rodbusters in Atlanta

Ironworkers Local 387

Ironworkers Local 387 represents both structural ironworkers and reinforcing ironworkers across the Atlanta region.

Members gain access to:

• Apprenticeship training
• Health insurance
• Retirement benefits
• Job opportunities on major construction projects
• Advanced safety and welding certifications

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How To Apply for the Ironworker Apprenticeship

To apply for the apprenticeship program, contact the training center:

Ironworkers Local 387

Website
https://www.ironworkers387.org

Phone
(404) 505-0027

Location
Atlanta, Georgia

Applicants typically need:

• High school diploma or GED
• Physical ability to perform construction work
• Valid driver's license
• Ability to work outdoors on construction sites

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Why Choose a Career as a Rodbuster?

Rodbusters enjoy careers that offer:

• Strong union wages and benefits
• Paid apprenticeship training
• Opportunities to work on major infrastructure projects
• Long-term demand in construction and infrastructure
• The satisfaction of building structures that last for decades

Reinforcing ironworkers help build the structural foundations of bridges, buildings, and infrastructure throughout Georgia.