Pipefitters are one of several essential roles within shipbuilding. They fabricate, install, and repair crucial pipes for heating, water, cooling, steam, and more. These vital functions couldn’t exist without trained and talented craftspeople willing to work in shipyards. If you’ve thought about a career in pipefitting, it’s essential to know the most critical skills required. Here are three things you need to bring to the table to your pipefitting career and how to put your best foot forward when looking for your next job opportunity.
1. Math Skills
To become a pipefitter, you’ll need more than basic math. Fractions and measurements are significant when it comes to pipe installation. Not only will you have to measure and convert, but you will also need to have a firm grasp of geometry and spatial relations. Cutting, sizing, and fitting pipes have to be precise, or major structural and safety issues can occur in the future. Having a solid background in advanced math will help you get started.
2. Understanding of Blueprints
A lot of the job of pipefitters in shipbuilding is related to plumbing and safety. So it’s critical that you’re able to read, interpret, and understand ship blueprints. Without this understanding, things may fall through the cracks, leading to major safety issues. A pipefitter will need to know where exactly to install piping and the proper sizing. It will also help better navigate when repairs may be necessary for the future.
3. Experience with the Tools of the Trade
Pipefitters also use several tools for their work. Within the course of the job, they’ll measure, cut, and bend materials for piping. The understanding of how to use tools properly is key to safety as well as accuracy. You can expect to use tools like tape measures, saws, pipe benders, torches, and more. You may even need to have a basic understanding of welding. If you’re unfamiliar with these tools, it could lead to significant problems in the future.
Do you think a career as a pipefitter is right for you?
Contact the recruiters at Hutco to see what we’re working on today.
