Steamfitting/Pipefitting

CampusStart DateTuition/Fees
Saint JohnSeptember 2023 (Blended Delivery) Domestic | International

Program Overview

The Steamfitter/Pipefitter trade is unique because it's the only one that specializes in the planning, design, and installation of low and high pressure steam systems and installation methods for each. They build, maintain and repair piping systems that carry just about anything that can be transported through a pipe: water, steam, fluids, gasses, chemicals, fuels, woodchips, etc.

This program will give you entry-level knowledge and practical experience required to pursue a career as a steamfitter/ pipefitter. You'll learn to assemble, install, maintain and repair pipes carrying water, steam chemicals and fuel in heating, cooling, lubricating and other process piping systems. Hoisting, lifting and rigging are also part of the curriculum. Trade theory and practical experience is supported by courses in communications and mathematics. Workplace safety is emphasized.


Duration

The requirements for this certificate program may be achieved within one academic year of full-time study.    


Admission Requirements

    Profile A

  • High School Diploma or Adult High School Diploma or GED Diploma of High School Equivalency or Essential Skills Achievement Pathway: Post-Secondary Entry High School Diploma

    NB Francophone High School Math Equivalencies
    International Student Admission Equivalencies


    Career Possibilities

    Tradespeople in this profession can specialize in many fields including commercial or public buildings, manufacturing and processing facilities, crack oil cracking processes, offshore platforms, nuclear reactors, and many other types of steam powered processes. You may also find work as a gas fitter, plumber, steamfitter, pipefitter, sprinkler system installer, technical sales specialists (wholesale trade), or a waterworks and gas maintenance worker.

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    Specific Considerations

    Areas of specialization in this trade include maintenance, quality control, rigging, fabrication and installation of various types of systems.

    Steamfitters/Pipefitters work both indoors and outdoors at physically demanding tasks that often require working at heights. There is some risk of injury when working in and around trenches, on work platforms and with power tools and heavy equipment. The piping systems may carry dangerous substances. Safety practices and training are emphasized in order to minimize risks.

    Steamfitters/Pipefitters must have mechanical aptitude, manual dexterity, mathematical skills, an ability to read and understand complex instructions and an ability to do careful and exacting work. They sometimes work in uncomfortable or cramped positions. The work can also be physically demanding.

    Technology Requirements
    NBCC is a connected learning environment. All programs require a minimum specification, including access to the internet and a laptop. Your computer should meet your program technology requirements to ensure the software required for your program operates effectively. Free wifi is provided on all campuses.


    Areas of Study

    • workplace safety
    • trade related legislation, regulations and codes
    • tools and equipment
    • blueprint reading
    • architectural drawings and specifications
    • piping drawing and symbols
    • fundamentals of electricity
    • piping layout and common installation
    • rigging and hoisting
    • steam system installation
    • heating, cooling, and process system installation


    Program Courses

    Course curriculum for this program is still under development. Once the courses have been finalized, they will be posted here. Courses are subject to change.


    NOC Codes

    6221 - Technical sales specialists – wholesale trade
    7251 - Plumbers
    7252 - Steamfitters, pipefitters and sprinkler system installers
    7253 - Gas fitters
    7442 - Waterworks and gas maintenance workers


    External Certifications

    Steamfitting/Pipefitting graduates may have an opportunity to acquire the following external certifications upon meeting the external agencies certification requirements and paying any required fees to the external agency:

    Institution: Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour
    External Certification: Apprenticeship
    Information: Certification through Apprenticeship and Occupational Certification Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour.


    Disclaimer: This web copy provides guidance to prospective students, applicants, current students, faculty and staff. Although advice is readily available on request, the responsibility for program selection ultimately rests with the student. Programs, admission requirements and other related information is subject to change.


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