Boilermakers typically gain skills through apprenticeships or formal classes, with certification available through professional organizations and unions. Apprenticeships and technical schools offer training options, and boilermakers may work on a variety of projects beyond boilers. Career options include metal fabrication, technical drawing, and engineering.
Boilermakers, or tradesmen who work in metal fabrication, generally acquire professional skills through apprenticeships, although some may take formal classes at a trade or technical school to become a boilermaker. Working in this field requires extensive training and experience. Professional organizations and unions can offer formal certification, including qualifications to work in sensitive areas and on technically demanding projects. This work can be dangerous and requires physical fitness and a high degree of attention to detail.
One way to become a boilermaker is to directly apply for an apprenticeship after graduating from high school. Apprenticeship programs regularly list new job opportunities, and students can also discover training options through a union, professional organization or trade school. Apprentices move up the hierarchy as they develop experience. Under the supervision of a qualified boilermaker, they can gradually take on increasingly complex and demanding projects. Eventually, they will have enough experience and skill to work independently as part of a shop, and they will in turn be able to train apprentices.
Other boilermakers can begin training to become a boilermaker by taking classes at a college or technical school. Welding classes can be a good choice, and some schools specifically offer a boilermaking prep program. Students gain technical and classroom experience while at school, under the direction of an instructor. They may also have access to internships and apprenticeships that are not widely advertised, as some boilermakers looking for apprentices only list openings with credible trade schools.
Despite the “boiler” in the name, a person training to become a boilermaker may not actually work specifically in boilers. This work may include fabrication, maintenance and repair of a variety of vats, vessels and pressurized systems. Some technicians also fabricate metal parts for other types of projects. They work with structural engineers and other metal experts to develop design specifications and logically plan manufacturing.
Once a person becomes a boiler, there are a number of careers they can pursue with their qualifications and experience. One option is to continue working in metal fabrication. Others may move on to technical drawing, working on the schematics used by the boilers in their work. Boiler inspectors may also have experience in this area. Some boilermakers go back to school for engineering degrees and participate in the development of newer, safer technology for activities ranging from fermenting beer to storing jet fuel.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
