The recommended prerequisites for high school students include construction courses, shop courses, and math and science courses. Knowledge of chemistry, physics, algebra and geometry are all applied to the pipefitting trade almost every day. Blueprint reading and welding are useful skills students can practice in shop classes before starting an apprenticeship.

Pipefitters practice their mechanical skills regularly by using a variety of tools. Having the physical strength to carry heavy pipe and use heavy tools is essential to getting the job done. Applicants also must enjoy problem solving, as pipefitters need to be able to see a problem, diagnose the source and fix the issue.

Completion of high school classes do not count for hours in the apprenticeship program, but the experience and classes taken are valuable in building students skill set.

A two-year diploma is not required to qualify for a pipefitter apprenticeship. A welding certificate is helpful for the interview process and will be helpful when beginning your career as a pipefitter.

A pipefitter apprenticeship is a five-year paid program in which apprentices receive both on-the-job practical training and classroom instruction. The apprenticeship requires 8,750 hours of on-the-job training and 1,080 classroom training hours each year. Fees for supplies are about $540.00 per year plus books.

Begin your career search at the Pipefitter Local near you. Candidates should locate his/her preferred union and connect with local contractors to begin an apprenticeship. Find the Local for your area below.

When a pipefitter apprentice can demonstrate competence in vital skills, the apprenticeship will be complete. Apprentices will graduate to journey-level workers after passing the Minnesota State Pipefitting License exam. After joining the union, apprentices will be eligible for benefits after 2 months of work.

Rochester Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 6
Apply for an apprenticeship with Local 6.

Duluth and Detroit Lakes Plumbers & Steamfitters Local 11
Apply for an apprenticeship with Local 11.

Minneapolis & St. Cloud Plumbers Local 15
Apply for an apprenticeship with Local 15.

Saint Paul & Mankato Plumbers Local 34
Apply for an apprenticeship with Local 34.

Minneapolis Gasfitters Local 340
Apply for an apprenticeship with Local 340 by calling (612) 379-3241.

Saint Paul & Mankato Pipefitters Local 455
Apply for an apprenticeship with Local 455.

Minneapolis & Saint Cloud Pipefitters Local 539
Apply for an apprenticeship with Local 539.

Virginia Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 589
Apply for an apprenticeship with Local 589 by calling (218) 741-2482.

Pipefitters must have good interpersonal and customer service skills, especially if the work is done in residential areas or in teams. Knowledge of a variety of tools and being cautious and aware of safety practices at all times ensures a pipefitter gets the job effectively.

For high school students preparing to become a pipefitter, part-time jobs require a person to enjoy being outdoors in a variety of conditions and be physically fit. Knowledge of tools such as the experience one gets working at a local hardware store is beneficial to a pipefitter apprentice candidate.

Military members applying for a pipefitter apprenticeship, no training hour credit can be granted unless the applicant has pipefitting experience and can meet Minnesota code standards. Veteran’s can search job opportunities at www.helmetstohardhats.org.