How to Become a Pipefitter

Pipefitters cut pipes and install pipe systems.

Most pipefitters learn the trade through an apprenticeship then go on to work for factories, municipal water and sewer systems, contractors and other construction trade organizations. They need good mathematics, spatial perception and precision to excel in this field. Pipefitters earned an average of $16.63 to $29.66 in 2008, among the highest hourly wages for construction professionals. Becoming a pipefitter takes four to five years, but you'll earn as you learn through hands-on and classroom experience.

Instructions

1. Identify pipefitter apprenticeship opportunities near you by checking with local unions. Most pipefitters receive their training in an apprenticeship. The Bureau of Labor Statistics recommends checking with the United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry, National Association of Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors, American Fire Sprinkler Association or the Home Builders Institute of the National Association of Home Builders for apprenticeships.

2. Complete an apprenticeship application from the sources you identified and wait to be matched with an apprenticeship. Depending on your geographic location and the need for pipefitters in your areas, this wait may be quick or lengthy.

3. Begin working as an apprentice pipefitter. Measure and cut pipes, install pipe systems and perform repair and maintenance work. Apprenticeships last four to five years and combine hands-on training with classroom education. As you progress through the internship, you'll receive a higher portion of a pipefitter's wage and more responsibility.

4. Complete the classroom portion of your apprenticeship, which covers blueprint reading, physics, chemistry and plumbing codes and equipment. Pass regular examinations on topics covered in your classes; these may be multiple-choice, written answer or a combination and exams vary by location.

5. Finish both the classroom and work experience portions of your apprenticeship to become a journeyman pipefitter.

Tips & Warnings

• Some states require pipefitters to become licensed. If yours does, you'll submit licensing application paperwork upon completion of your apprenticeship and may be required to take an examination. For example, the state of Massachusetts requires pipefitters to submit documentation of the necessary experience, a licensing fee, proof of education and a photo but does not require an examination. Pipefitters in that state become licensed with the Department of Apprenticeship and Training as an apprentice and then journeyman pipefitter. Candidates in other states can obtain license information during their apprenticeship.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Plumbers, Pipelayers, Pipefitters and Steamfitters
• Degree Finders: How to Become a Pipefitter
• Mass.gov: Refrigeration Technicians, Pipefitters, and Sprinklefitters
• Education Portal: Becoming a Pipefitter