What Pipefitters Do and Why They're Important
We spoke with Aerotek Account Manager Tanner Fasold who has over seven years in helping construction companies find quality skilled trades professionals. He elaborates on what pipefitters do, why their work is crucial and why to consider pursuing a career in pipefitting.
What is a Pipefitter?
Pipefitters are skilled tradespeople who install, maintain, and repair specialized piping systems used in industrial settings. Unlike plumbers, who work primarily with water systems in residential and commercial buildings, pipefitters handle high-pressure pipes that transport substances like steam, chemicals, oil, and gases. These systems are crucial in industries such as manufacturing, energy production and shipbuilding.
The pipes used in pipefitting are typically larger and made from durable materials like metal or concrete. Many also feature advanced pumping systems to regulate flow efficiently.
What Does a Pipefitter Do?
Pipefitters are responsible for assembling, cutting, welding, and maintaining piping systems that must withstand high pressure and extreme conditions. Their work often takes place in manufacturing plants, shipyards, power plants, and heavy industrial facilities. They must read blueprints, calculate pressure loads, and ensure pipes are securely fitted to prevent leaks or system failures.
“Pipefitters have very similar duties to plumbers and pipelayers. Generally, it’s only the industry, material or even just the location that separates them. A good rule of thumb is pipefitters work indoors in some type of industrial setting. Similar to plumbers in respect to indoors they differ by the type of material the tradesperson works with. Pipefitters are going to work with heavy-duty industrial grade piping systems for manufacturing plants, heavy-duty machinery, shipyards, powerplants, etc. When thinking pipefitters think BIG piping,” says Fasold.
Pipefitter Career Path: Opportunities and Growth
Becoming a pipefitter typically follows a structured path, although the specifics may vary based on the chosen specialty, such as mechanical or steam pipes. The journey often starts with a high school diploma or a GED equivalent. With this educational foundation, individuals interested in pipefitting can embark on a one-year training program commonly offered at community colleges or vocational schools. Some high school students with a keen interest in the field may have the opportunity to intern or enroll in introductory pipefitting or trades courses, gaining early exposure to the profession.
“Various trade schools will offer apprenticeship programs for pipefitting. Also, there are options to do apprenticeship programs with some companies where you would work in the field and on certain days or nights and take classes for four years. Other options are to get a foot in the door with a plumbing or pipelaying role, understand the application/physics of piping systems and then apply to a pipefitting company down the road with applicable experience,” says Fasold.
The curriculum of a pipefitting program covers a mix of relevant subjects, including mathematics, chemistry, physics, blueprint interpretation and hands-on experience in pipefitting and welding techniques. This comprehensive education equips students with the necessary skills to pursue an apprenticeship upon graduation. During the apprenticeship, individuals work under the guidance of experienced senior pipefitters, gaining practical knowledge and often receiving compensation for their efforts. After completing the apprenticeship, pipefitters can work independently, establish their own practice, or join existing teams of skilled tradespeople.
A Career Path in Pipefitting
Certified pipefitters have the flexibility to shape their careers according to their preferences. They can join established trade organizations, establish their independent businesses, or work as freelancers. As they accumulate experience in the field, pipefitters can transition into management roles, taking on responsibilities as supervisors or team leads. In these roles, they often engage in training and mentoring activities, passing down their valuable knowledge to the next generation of pipefitters. Eventually, as they approach the later stages of their careers, some may choose to practice less intensively, focusing on teaching and preparing for retirement.
“Pipefitters have a ton of career opportunities. Relatable trades such as plumbing, pipelaying, welding and millwright work are all relatable trades a pipefitter could transition into. Let alone they have access to different industries – manufacturing, power production, shipbuilding, gas and oil, renewable energies, and general construction,” says Fasold.