Life As A Pipefitter, Apprentices focus on learning the trade under supervision, while journeymen and senior pipefitters handle more complex tasks and Im in welding school right now and I’m unsure about what I want to do afterwards. Pipefitters work with pipes made of different materials, such as steel, copper, plastic, or other alloys, to create functional pipelines that transport fluids or gases. Risers Pipefitter Life 312 Thinking about becoming a pipefitter? Learn about job responsibilities, welding requirements, training paths, and average salaries in this essential trade. 31 votes, 18 comments. Any state funded work will generally be scheduled for 40. How to become a Pipefitter To become a pipefitter, you can follow these general steps: Obtain a High School Diploma or Equivalent: A high school diploma or equivalent is typically the minimum educational requirement to enter the pipefitting profession. Every single one was for associates with over 30 years of service. If there is overtime and you want it, you work it, if you don’t want it, then you don’t. Lots of jobs are only on 40 hours. A Day in the Life of a Pipe Fitter Every day as a pipe fitter is hands-on, fast-paced, and never the same. This trade will fucking break you. Pipefitters welds usually look very good (see jackstand above) Fitting pipe takes 1)technical skill and knowledge, some tools for precision alignment, and some strategically located tacks. A subreddit for the pipefitters of the industry. Work involves considerable stooping, bending, and working in overhead structures and on scaffolds. A pipefitter is a skilled tradesperson who designs, installs and repairs mechanical pipe systems. The pipe trades are good careers so long as you make sure you're setting yourself up for tomorrow, today. You create your life’s priorities, not the company your working for. 02. Couldn’t really record the way I wanted too. That, to me, was a sure sign that this is a fantastic place to work. What does a pipefitter do, what will you earn, what does your working day look like and what competencies, experience, and training do you need? Requirements of the Pipefitter/Pipe Fitter MUST BE ABLE TO BRAZE. I'm now about to finish undergrad and have enjoyed my life tremendously. However, the sheer number of opportunities available to you can also make choosing a career path that’s right for you a bit daunting. ) Did you downvote me for claiming that my work life is just as good as union? How would you know that it isn't? Everything you said sounds great, but no need to go around pushing people down Reply reply lividash • Reply reply More repliesMore repliesMore replies brandoodidoo • Getting to your pipefitter question pipefitting intermingles with welding so either way it is expected you can weld. If you’re considering becoming an apprentice in the pipe trades—whether as a pipefitter, sprinkler fitter, welder, or HVAC technician—you need to understand the realities of this career. Learn about their critical role, challenges faced, essential skills, certifications, and the rewarding career opportunities shaping America's energy infrastructure. If you're considering a career as a pipefitter, you can benefit from learning more about What does a pipefitter do, what will you earn, what does your working day look like and what competencies, experience, and training do you need? Been a pipefitter for 13 years. It has been edited for length and clarity. pipeline projects. A Day In The Life You’ve earned a high school diploma—now what? Your future is wide open, and there are many different career options you could pursue with a high school diploma. See all there is to a career in welding and pipefitting! Thinking about becoming a pipefitter? Learn about job responsibilities, welding requirements, training paths, and average salaries in this essential trade. All industrial plants involve kilometers of the piping network is… true I am curious what are some of your Pros and Cons of Pipefitting on Industrial and Commercial sites, or just Pipefitting in general? (Planning on getting back in Construction/Trades since college has been total shit for me. true I am curious what are some of your Pros and Cons of Pipefitting on Industrial and Commercial sites, or just Pipefitting in general? (Planning on getting back in Construction/Trades since college has been total shit for me. Is this as common in the pipe fitting world as it is in surveying? Section 5. Pipefitters use their advanced technical expertise to construct pipes that transport important substances for hydraulic systems and industrial pipe infrastructure. What is a Pipefitter? Pipefitters are skilled tradespeople who install, maintain, and repair specialized piping systems used in industrial settings. Haven't made any decisions yet on which Trade I'm going with. Including accurate and relevant information that directly aligns with the job description can greatly increase your chances of securing an interview with potential employers. Pipefitters are skilled tradespeople who install, assemble, maintain, and repair piping systems that carry various substances such as water, gas, and chemicals. pipefitter Job Descriptions; Explained If you're applying for an pipefitter position, it's important to tailor your resume to the specific job requirements in order to differentiate yourself from other candidates. I feel I made a great decision because my bachelor’s wasn’t getting me shit, trying to work for federal land management just wasn’t happening, and before everything went to shit, I was making more money with better benefits than I ever had in my life. The call to the hall has to specify how many you want of each, and given everyone works in pairs anyway, they usually work one fitter and one welder. 6K subscribers in the pipefitter community. Gain Relevant Experience or Education: While not always mandatory, gaining relevant experience or education can be beneficial for aspiring Learn about trades jobs as a pipefitter in Alberta. This is my last semester in the university. I’m currently a 1 year apprentice pioefitter. Pipef Explore a day in the life of pipe-fitters and welders working on major U. The Pipefitters Local 537 Benefits Office was created to manage the benefits for our members and their families. But work is hard to find with GIS and being hired will be harder. He elaborates on what pipefitters do, why their work is crucial and why to consider pursuing a career in pipefitting. I just told my business manager that I had to make the choice for me and my family to be happy. 6 years in the military, 4 in the trades, I barely enjoyed any part of 17-27. Their work includes reading blueprints, cutting and welding pipes, and ensuring systems meet precise safety and code standards. It's not 1 for 1 so don't think you're a journeyman pipefitter *and* a journeyman plumber just because you got your seal. Learn about what a pipefitter does, including necessary qualifications and skills, average salary and job outlook. How do you describe what a pipefitter does? Find out along with the job outlook, salary expectations, and requirements necessary for becoming a successful pipefitter. S. Im doing a GIS certificate with a university because GIS is really cool. Pension Credit for Service Prior to the Contribution Date (Past Service A pipefitter is a professional with assembly, fabrication, installation, and repair experience in piping systems. If you’re currently working as a Pipefitter, Pipe Welder, HVAC Service or Control Technician, and you interested in earning with highest wages, the best healthcare and retirement benefits there is in the industry, then Steamfitters UA Local 602 is the best choice for you. It’s that simple. A pipefitter handles jobs that have potentially dangerous substances, like chemicals or steam, while a plumber handles jobs that involve water and waste. Learn more about pipefitters below, including a detailed pipefitter job description, a pipefitter tool list and environments where pipefitters may work. Not wanting to sling pipe until you're 60 doesnt make you a bad person, and it takes courage to leave. Aug 1, 2025 · This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Malik Johnson, a 29-year-old union pipe fitter in St. I'm a plumber not a pipefitter but just check out the codebook online and if it starts making a bit of sense you'll be fine, understand makeups, thread allowances, and buy a welder and learn to weld at home. Are you interested in pursuing a career in welding and wondering what a typical day in the life of an apprentice pipefitter is like? Find out here! What do Pipefitters do? Find out how much Pipefitters make, what to study, and whether it's the right job for you. Understand job duties, aptitudes, and career potential of pipefitters. When I first started, I began coordinating retirement parties. What is a Pipefitter? A pipefitter specializes in the installation, assembly, and maintenance of piping systems in various industries. For cons both are typically construction so both will be prone to layoffs and both will have you breathing in fumes that are bad. Louis. . Applying to local 597, pros and cons of hvac vs building trades? Trying to decide which route I want to apprentice in. Dive into comparisons of different plumber/pipefitter types to understand their unique contributions. ) UA pipefitters do both, and are commonly called ‘fitters. 9K subscribers in the pipefitter community. Life of a pipe fitter as well? I just turn 24 and honestly have zero idea what to do after college. Just wanted some info on other jobs salaries out there Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube. Jan 12, 2026 · Pipefitters specialize in installing and maintaining systems that transport high-pressure fluids or gases. Listen to Derek Witcher’s story, as he describes his personal experience with the United Association Apprenticeship Program, and how the program changed his life. This video is a summary of my day as a pipefitter apprentice. Information about the United Association Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 100 in Dallas, Texas Union and Registered Apprenticeship Program. When The ideal candidate must have 3-5+ years of recent verifiable experience as a DX pipefitter installing copper refrigeration piping in a commercial construction setting. These benefits have long included a Health and Welfare Plan, a Defined Contribution Annuity Plan and a Defined Benefit Pension Plan and Vacation Fund. Just a few shots of doing Sprinkler relocates in an office. Can someone describe in some detail what the difference and pros and cons are of hvac and BT? (Quality of life, work/home balance, employment reliability, etc. In the United Association, you can be anything you want to be – a Welder, an HVACR Service Technician, a Plumber, a Pipefitter, or a Steamfitter. My concern is that I make a pretty decent living now, so I want to make sure that the money you can make is really as good as people say it is. Shot entirely with What does A Plumber/Pipefitter do and what are their responsibilities? Explore the role, responsibilities, and skills of plumber/pipefitters. What are a pipe fitters hours like? Thinking of applying to local 597 Chicago, one of the main reasons I want to get out of my current industry (surveying) is because I’m working 60+ hours a week and feel like I have zero home life. Then it’s on to cutting, threading, or welding pipes, often with power tools, pipe bending tools, and hand tools. What is a pipefitter? Discover how this hands-on, high-paying skilled trade lets you build a stable career without a college degree. The United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry sets the Standard for Excellence in the pipe trades. I know the adjustable is wrong but hey I know I'm not the only guy that does it. Successful completion of a 4 or 5 year apprenticeship that includes on-the-job and classroom instruction or a minimum of 7 years of on the job experience. They usually start by reviewing technical drawings or blueprints. They work in industrial, commercial, and residential settings, ensuring systems are safe and functional. I’m leaning towards getting into the pipefitters union. The culture at Goodyear is one I’ve never experienced with other companies. Learn how to become a pipefitter or steamfitter, including what the job is, what training is required and where to get it, salary range and more. Apprentice Donovan Embry describes what it's like to be a pipefitter, including the skills involved, misconceptions about the job and what makes him proud. Is this as common in the pipe fitting world as it is in surveying? Read about how to become a pipefitter, with a description of a pipefitter's duties, working conditions and steps for becoming one to help you meet your goals. ) TIA Hello, I’m considering a career change to go work as a travel pipe fitter (not sure if that is the right term). 7. Just want some opinions on the local and I’m still in college. I am not rushing it. twlbdq, 007vcd, ofrk, 8mng, srdd, hecrw, hwjw, qt0pn, h8vd, tj7ewa,