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Q: What is this industry really all about?
A: The Pipe Trades are very important to all of us, because
they help us maintain a high standard of living in our country.
The industry helps businesses, schools and homes run efficiently
and comfortably all year round. If you think about how you yourself
use water, gas and air, you will realize that the Pipe Trades make
a big difference in your daily life.
Q: Isn't this industry kind of old fashioned?
A: People sometimes mistakenly think that the Pipe Trades
are old industries that have not evolved. On the contrary, new technology
is continually in use throughout the plumbing, pipefitting and HVAC/Refrigeration
industries. The people in the industry are educated in and comfortable
with highly technical equipment and sophisticated methods.
Q: What are Pipe Trades workers responsible for?
A: In an age of increasing technology, plumbers and pipefitters
are responsible for installing, maintaining and servicing a wide
range of systems involving fluids and gases for industrial, commercial
and residential buildings. Tradespeople in these jobs are also trained
as certified welders and experts in valve repair, and are just as
likely to be found in high-tech "clean rooms" as in the field.
Q: What kinds of systems would I work with in
the Pipe Trades?
A: The kinds of systems that our tradespeople work with can
include these and many more ...
- Ultra high purity process water and gas piping
- Heating, ventilating and air conditioning
- Process gas and chemical distribution
- Hotel, restaurant and office building plumbing
- Fire protection
- Bio-process and sanitary piping
- Commercial and manufacturing utilities
- Process cooling water
- Boiler and power plants
- Toxic treatment
- Specialty acids and solvents
- Controls
- Refrigeration piping
- Waste treatment and storage
Q: Do the Pipe Trades offer a young person like
me a good future?
A: Since this industry is so central to America, it offers
an outstanding future to any young person looking for a successful
career. The Pipe Trades can help you build your future by providing
customized education and training, hands-on experience, substantial
income potential, strong benefits and a variety of career paths.
Q: How would working in the Pipe Trades compare
to working in a service job or in an office?
A: When you enter the Pipe Trades Apprentice Program, you
are beginning to work at a career instead of a job. That means you
are building your future with specific skills that will make you
more marketable over time, while building your ability to earn higher
incomes because of your experience in sophisticated systems. Working
in a service job like a restaurant or at a clerical position in
an office usually cannot offer you the career and financial rewards
that the Pipe Trades provide.
Q: Can I still work in this industry if I move
to a different city or state?
A: Once you have completed the Pipe Trades Apprentice Program
and become a certified, skilled journeyman, you can become a member
of your local union wherever you choose to live. You can use your
skills and experience anywhere in the country.
Q: Is the industry open to both women and men?
A: There are no gender, race, nationality or age restrictions
to enter the Pipe Trades industry. Both women and men are welcome
in our field and are encouraged to apply to the Program.
Q: What is the best way to enter the industry?
A: The best way to enter the industry is by applying to the
Pipe Trades Apprentice Program. The Program will allow you to learn
everything you need to know to become a highly skilled and highly
paid tradesperson.
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