HARVEY, Mich. (WZMQ) – 18 of the best ironworker apprentices from around the Midwest visited the Upper Peninsula this Thursday and Friday to compete in the 2026 Regional Local 8 Apprenticeship Competition.
“We’ve got the Dakota’s represented, Nebraska, Iowa, Minnesota, Upper Michigan, and Wisconsin,” explained Local 8 Marquette Business Agent, Tim Roman.
Each competing local brought four of its best workers, who competed within their own unions to qualify for regionals.
Over the two days, workers completed a set of written tests and showcased their welding skills, wrapping up with cash games on Friday morning for a change of pace in the competition.
While branding these skills, Milwaukee Local 8 Second Year Apprentice, Tyler Banach says showing character takes the opportunity a step further.
“This is a big feather in the cap,” he said. “The presidents from other locals, they’re super proud of us for making it this far. They’ll remember your name, your face, especially if you do well here and you put in the work.”
This is the first time the event has been held at the union’s Marquette location, built in 2023. Banach says being in the area adds to the excitement of working as a journeyman.
“Seeing all the guys from different areas and the stories they have about what it’s like to work out by them, it’s really cool,” he said.
The top three winners from the regional competition will qualify for an international competition in Washington D.C. in the fall.
