STEAMFITTER-PIPEFITTER
Show ‘em your pipes
Fast Fact
The Romans are credited with the first water carrying system - the aqueduct. Made from lead, some people believe lead poisoning enabled the fall of Rome. Some of the first pipes in North America were made from hollowed out logs.
Strength – both physical and mental – are requirements for this job. Pipefitting requires the eye of a designer, the brain of a Rubik’s cube master, and the strength of a welder. You will plan how it should all fit together, cut through walls to make it happen, then thread and weld it all together efficiently.
If you are a planner and a doer, this is the career for you!
How to Start
Contact the local building trade office for assistance. We’ll be happy to talk with you and answer any questions you may have. We can also help you contact the Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trades Commission to register you as an apprentice.
Plumber/Pipefitter Local 179 306-569-0624 Email Us> plumbers.pipe@sasktel.net
Frequently asked questions
How long is the training for this trade?
Training for this trade requires a total of 1800 hours of technical training and on-the-job experience each year for four years. Technical training is 15% of the 1800 hours; on-the-job training makes up the other 85%. There are 4 levels of technical training:
Level 1: 8 weeks
Level 2: 8 weeks
Level 3: 7 weeks
Level 4: 7 weeks
After you have met all of the requirements for journeyperson certification, you will receive a Completion of Apprenticeship Certificate and a Journeyperson Certificate of Qualification.
Where can I study for this trade?
Theoretical training for this trade is offered through the SIAST Kelsey Campus in Saskatoon.
Is this trade Red Seal certifiable?
Yes, inter-provincial Red Seal Certification is available for this trade.
What if I dont have my grade 12? Can I still look into this trade?
Yes. The academic requirements for entry into this trade are not related to high school grade level. If you do NOT have grade 12, contact Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trades Commission to have your academic qualifications assessed. Click here (http://www.saskapprenticeship.ca/) for the Sask Apprenticeship website. Or email (Apprenticeship@sasked.gov.sk.ca) Sask Apprenticeship.
I am a new high school graduate. Does this help me?
Employers do usually prefer workers who have grade 12, and a grade 12 diploma guarantees you have met the academic requirements for entry into this trade.
Why should I apprentice with an organized/unionized tradesperson?
Entry to this trade program requires the partnership of an employer and the supervision of a certified journeyperson. NOTE: You MUST be registered as an apprentice to work in this trade. Working with a unionized tradesperson means you will do your required on-the-job training with a skilled, professional employer who will mentor you through your apprenticeship, ensuring you have the highest quality work experience in the safest of working environments.
An added bonus is that being involved with an organized/unionized tradesperson from the start helps you to network as you build your new career.