The Mohawk people have had a long legacy with ironworking that is still a large and integral part of the community and its identity. Mohawk ironworkers were fearless- often seen scaling beams without harnesses. But, today the industry is more focused on safety while still honoring the achievements of those brave Mohawk ironworkers.

Mike Swamp has given 40 years of service to ironworking before retiring in 2009. He volunteers his time as a business representative for the Ironworkers organization and understands the importance of safety on the job better than most.

“40 years going when I started there was a little bit of safety but nothing like it is today,” said Swamp. “Times have changed and now it is all about safety.”

Swamp’s job with the ironworkers is to oversee the apprenticeship training, journey man upgrading and setting up classes for the Northern New York State region.

Working with Dan Garrow of Area Management Board, Swamp has been instrumental in brining important safety training to Akwesasne. On Jan. 29 and 30, there was an Occupational Safety and Health Association (OSHA) training at the Wolf Clan Truck Stop. OSHA is an occupational safety course that brings workers up to date on the current safety regulations of OSHA 10 and is geared around all trades including: ironworking, fire departments, and construction. Of all classes done with the particular trainer the ones that are held in Akwesasne are the largest anywhere with 20-30 participants. Usually there are only 10-12 max in other areas.

“We really push the safety up here,” said Swamp.

Although ensuring safety on the job might make it a slower process it is 110 percent safer.

“When we send guys out they come home,” continued Swamp.

The Ironworkers’ Swamp and Area Management Board’s Garrow are continuing to work hard to make more safety courses available for interested Akwesasne laborers. Feb. 26 and 27 there will be scaffold training at the St. Regis Recreation Center in Kanatakon (St. Regis). The course can hold 25-30 and you can call Swamp at Ironworkers (518) 358 - 4288 or (518) 358 - 4856, or Garrow at Akwesasne Area Management Board at (613) 575 - 2626.