Ironworkers Local 725

05/20/2026

Good afternoon, Local 725!

As a follow-up to the message from Rob Riggle, this is another reminder that even the toughest people in our industry need to make time to look after themselves and their families.

The Harper Can Help Assessments are confidential online check-ins designed to support mental and emotional well-being. Using research-based questions, the program helps identify areas many people struggle with, including stress, anxiety, burnout, low mood, chronic pain, and financial pressure.

Once completed, members receive a personalized report along with access to the “Chat with Harper” feature. This tool helps break down your top areas of concern in a simple and straightforward way, while also allowing you to ask questions and explore practical ways to improve your overall well-being privately and without judgment.

The work we do is physically demanding, and many of our members also carry the pressure of providing for their families and preparing for the future. Programs like this are a reminder that taking care of ourselves is just as important as taking care of the job.

The support is there but it only helps if we make use of it.

Take care of yourselves and each other.

04/23/2026

04/10/2026

Heavy hearts in the Ironworker world.

Please keep Local 401 in your prayers.

04/10/2026

About six weeks ago, one of our long term members, Teddy, an outstanding Ironworker and welder wasn’t feeling well on the job. He headed to his car to drive himself to the hospital, thinking he might be having a heart attack. Thankfully, one of our foremen, John Slaney (Local 720 Brother), noticed something wasn’t right and stopped him.

When Teddy explained how he was feeling, John didn’t hesitate. He told him straight up, “No way you’re driving get in my truck, I’m taking you.”
It’s a good thing he did.

When they got to the hospital, it turned out Teddy was having a massive heart attack. After further testing, he had to undergo triple bypass surgery. Today, Teddy is on the mend, and we’re incredibly grateful John stepped in when he did. There’s no telling what could have happened if Teddy had tried to drive himself.

At last night’s Union meeting, we invited John up front to recognize what he did for a brother we all respect deeply.

At Local 725, we have a tradition of honouring members who go out of their way to help a brother or sister in need. We present them with a chrome (silver spud award as we like to call it) a symbol of stepping up when it matters most.
John received his hoodie, chrome spud, and a hat to a well-deserved standing ovation.

This is what brotherhood is all about. Looking out for one another. Having each other’s backs when it counts.

I couldn’t be more proud to be part of this organization. ✊

03/11/2026

Union meeting tonight at 8:00 PM

Third and final reading of the By-laws followed by the vote.

Nominations for International Convention in August tonight as well.

See you there.

03/06/2026

🔥 BIG NIGHT COMING – MARCH 28 🔥
Undefeated and unstoppable Ironworkers Local 725 Brother, Kelvin “Action Boat” Kpulubu (8-0, 8 KOs) is stepping back into the ring on March 28th to face “Sugar” Shane Upshaw — and you already know what time it is! 💥🥊

Kelvin has built a perfect 8-0 record with every single win coming by knockout, and he’s looking to make it 9 straight finishes in front of a packed crowd. If you’ve seen him fight, you know he brings the action every time — that’s why they call him “Action Boat.” 🚤💣

Let’s show up and pack the building to support one of the most exciting fighters in the game right now. Your energy in the crowd makes a difference!

🎟 Tickets are on sale now – grab yours, bring your crew, and come be part of the action on March 28th. Link below 👇

https://www.tickettailor.com/events/olympusboxingclub/2041733?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZnRzaAQXIVdleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA8xMjQwMjQ1NzQyODc0MTQAAac6YmHUQyjpsrowUwk6QwlsKD7wXXOmW-QJtRJKrSRvF3Verd6W4Z0ANY4eng_aem_534BsFGzI-Lk444NE2CYpw

Let’s get loud and support Kelvin “Action Boat” Kpulubu as he keeps the knockout streak alive! 👊🔥

Rumble In The Rockies PRO/AM Fight Night – Cochrane Lions Club and Events Center, Sat 28 Mar 2026 - Rumble in the Rockies PRO/AM Fight Night This stacked PRO/AM Fight Night on Saturday, March 28th delivers knockouts, rivalries & championship energy from the opening bell to the main event. Star...

02/27/2026

Good afternoon, Local 725!

Here is another message from Rob Riggle, just a reminder that even the Bad Asses of construction need to take care of the mental health of themselves and their families.

Harper Can Help Assessments are simple, confidential online tools created to help you check in on your mental and emotional well-being. Using trusted, research-based questions, the assessments guide you through common challenges many of us face stress, anxiety, burnout, low mood, physical pain, and financial strain.

After completing the assessment, you’ll receive a personalized report along with access to the “Chat with Harper” feature. This interactive tool identifies your top three areas of concern and explains them in clear, straightforward language. You can ask follow-up questions, explore your results further, and gain practical insight right away all in a private, judgment-free environment.

The work our members perform every day is demanding and physically tough. On top of that, many of us carry the responsibility of supporting our families and planning for the future. This program is here to remind us that looking after our own well-being is just as important.

It only makes a difference if we take the step to use it.

Your health—both mental and physical—matters.

Have a great weekend!

02/14/2026

This was a productive week, I was proud to be a part of these important discussions.

Have a great Family Day Long Weekend!✊

BTA’s Executive Director Terry Parker, Strategic Engagement & Development Director Rob Calver, Ironworkers Local 725 Business Manager Jason Smart and Connect Group Inc.’s CEO/VP of Construction Jesse Johnson met with leaders including: Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, Secretary of State (Labour) John Zerucelli, MP Kelly McCauley, MP Billy Morin and MP Corey Hogan.

The discussions focused on key priorities impacting Alberta’s construction sector, including:

✅ The Union Training and Innovation Program (UTIP)
✅ Advancing and supporting Major Projects
✅ Strengthening Investment Tax Credits
✅ Addressing the growing threat of pseudo-unions.

These conversations focused on ensuring Alberta’s unionized workforce remains ready to build greatness on the major projects that drive growth across our province.

02/13/2026

Good morning, Local 725!

We have FREE Calgary Hitmen vs. Everett Silvertips hockey tickets available for the Family Day game this Monday at 1:00 PM. This is a great opportunity for members to get together and spend some time with your brothers and sisters from our great Local.

If you’re interested, please text 587-998-2609 with your email and how many to tickets you would like, or email me at [email protected]. Tickets will be first come, first served.

Thanks everyone, and have a safe and great Family Day long weekend!✊

02/11/2026

Union Meeting Tonight at 8PM

02/09/2026

It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of Brother Don Oshanek. Our thoughts and condolences are with Don’s family, friends, and all who knew him during this difficult time.

A service for Brother Oshanek will be held on Friday, February 13 at 1:00 p.m. at Snodgrass Funeral Home in Okotoks.