Steel Industry Workers

High School

In the past, some employers hired workers without high school diplomas, but today most prefer high school graduates. Classes to take in high school include English, communications, general mathematics, computer science, and mechanical drawing as well as shop courses.

Postsecondary Training

Most steelworkers learn their skills on the job or through apprenticeships. Apprenticeships are open to high school graduates who are at least 18 years old. Apprentice programs generally last four to five years and teach skills through classroom lectures and on-the-job training. Some employers pay for workers to take additional courses in subjects they can use on the job, such as chemistry, management, and metallurgy. Other education is available through home-study courses, technical schools, and colleges. In general, those planning to work in administrative, managerial, technical, and engineering positions will need a college degree.

Other Education or Training

The Association for Iron and Steel Technology hosts specialty training conferences annually that allow steel industry professionals to hone their skills and stay up to date on industry developments. Past conferences include The Making, Shaping and Treating of Steel: 101 and Maintenance Solutions: A Practical Training Seminar.