A career in a shipyard isn’t one size fits all. There are many paths you can take to find yourself working within the marine industry. If you think you might want to pursue a shipyard career, how do you know which skilled trade is best for you? Before you start, consider these 5 top skilled trades careers that can get you started in a shipyard.
Welding
Soldering or welding are important skills to have within a shipyard environment, so knowing these will give you an advantage. There are several different types of welding such as MIG, TIG or ARC, so it’s important to conduct a little research into the shipyards in your area to determine which they require. You can get this education through trade schools in almost any area.
Pipefitting
Another specialization that is essential for shipbuilding is pipefitting. Pipefitting can learn skills through a variety of ways including education and apprenticeships. It’s helpful to find a mentor within in the shipbuilding industry to talk about how they pursued their career and get tips for your own future.
Electrical
Similarly, electrical work is also highly sought after for shipbuilding. You can begin to learning electrical through courses and apprenticeships as well. The more you specialize, the more desirable you will be for specialized industries such as shipyards. Electrical wiring skills will be helpful for a variety of aspects.
Fabricating
Structural fabrication is one of the top jobs within a shipyard and one of the most important. Most roles will be centered on this skill in one way or another. Certification programs and apprenticeships will give you the skills you need to find a position with a shipyard environment.
Carpentry
Most people don’t associate carpentry with shipbuilding today, but there is a place for this skill within a shipyard. Wooden templates and dry blocks are just a few of the things that a skilled carpenter can contribute to the fabrication of a new ship. Carpentry is also learned through hands-on work.
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Are you interested in learning more about skilled trades in demand for shipyard jobs? Contact the recruiters at Hutco to learn more today.
