Steamfitter / Pipefitter

Trades & Technology
Steam Fitter Pipe Fitter

Training:
Red Deer College offers the Steamfitter/Pipefitter program, one of the many apprenticeship training options available for students.
Apprenticeship is a career option that involves both classroom and on-the-job training. To learn the skills required of a Steamfitter/Pipefitter in Alberta and be issued an Alberta Journeyperson Certificate, a person must find a suitable employer who is willing to hire and train an apprentice.

Learn:
The term of apprenticeship for Steamfitter/Pipefitter is 3 years (three 12-month periods) including a minimum of 1500 hours of on-the-job training for each year, 8 weeks (30 hours per week) of technical training each year.

Employment Opportunities:
Steamfitter/Pipefitter lay out, assemble, fabricate, maintain and repair piping systems which carry water, steam, chemicals or fuel used in heating, cooling, lubricating, and other processes.
Individuals are employed by pipeline construction contractors and sub-contractors, thermal or steam generating plants, manufacturers, utility companies, oil refineries, gas plants, pulp mills and chemical plants. Experienced Steamfitter/Pipefitters may advance to supervisory positions such as foreman, sub-contractor, contractor and construction superintendent.
Steamfitter/Pipefitters often work full-time, with overtime sometimes required to meet construction deadlines. Construction contractors may require employees to travel and live in rented accommodation or at a company “on-site” camp. Employment prospects can be sensitive to economic and seasonal changes. There is some risk of injury involved in working with power tools and heavy equipment.

Continue Your Learning:
If you have a valid Alberta Journeyperson Certificate, you are eligible to receive a Blue Seal business credential after completing the necessary requirements.