Pipefitter Assistant Career Paths in Pennsylvania

Pipefitter assistants play an essential role in construction at manufacturing, commercial, and industrial sites. The services they provide allow heavy-duty pipes to safely carry gases, chemicals, and acids. To become a pipefitter, you need specialized training from a vocational school. At the Bristol, PA, campus of Pennco Tech, students may enroll in the Plumbing and Heating Technology Program to obtain the fundamentals for this interesting career field. Learn more about what a pipefitter assistant does and the various career paths they may explore.

What Does A Pipefitter Assistant Do?

While you will need to attend plumbing school to become a pipefitter assistant, the occupation is separate from that of a plumber. Pipefitters organize, assemble, create, and maintain mechanical piping systems designed to withstand high pressures. They work with various metals, including carbon, stainless steel, and alloy metals, shaping them through welding and bending techniques. Typical responsibilities of a pipefitter assistant include:

• Going over blueprints and consulting with clients to understand specific requirements
• Inspecting and preparing sites for construction operations
• Measuring and modifying pipes according to requirements
• Welding, assembling, and lubricating pipes
• Installing and securing pipes
• Testing the functionality of hydraulic and other systems
• Repairing malfunctions, breakages, or leaks
• Enforcing safety guidelines and promoting best practices

Educational Requirements

Obtaining a pipefitter assistant position requires learning the essential skills and techniques to perform job duties safely and effectively. An outstanding trade program like Pennco Tech offers the necessary courses on pipe system design, safety, and tool use to thrive in the role.

Offered exclusively at our Bristol, PA, campus, our Plumbing and Heating Technology Program thoroughly prepares students by providing them with the required training for the position. Led by advanced instructors with real-world experience, the 26-week course covers a range of essential topics, such as:

• Brazing and soldering
• Bending tool and reverse-bending tool
• Hydraulic crimping tool
• Hand threading and Power Head threading
• Water supply systems, plumbing fixtures, water heaters
• Piping materials and fixtures
• Valves and meters
• Reading blueprints and symbology
• Preparing for plumbing system installation
• Installing fixtures, faucets, and appliances

Pipefitting can be a dangerous profession if not done correctly. That is why we emphasize the importance of safety within the program. We teach students the dangers a pipefitter assistant can encounter, instructing them on how to eliminate risk through OSHA safety training courses.

Various Career Opportunities

With the fundamentals students receive by completing the Plumbing and Heating Technology Program at Pennco Tech, they can progress to a pipefitter assistant and then other potential higher-paying job opportunities. Other roles you may seek include:

Steamfitter

As the two positions feature similar training, a pipefitter assistant may obtain a steamfitter job, as well. This profession primarily involves installing pipes designed for high-pressure gas materials. It requires individuals to use various pieces of equipment, including welding machines, cutting torches, and a variety of other hand and power tools.

Pipelayer

Another specialized role in the pipefitter field is a pipelayer. This line of work deals with digging and leveling trenches for pipes. This occupation entails installing piping of various materials for use. The work pipelayers perform contributes to drainage, water, gas, and sewer systems.

Learn How Pennco Tech Can Help You

If you wish to become a pipefitter assistant or seek other plumber jobs, consider enrolling in the Plumbing and Heating Technology Program at Pennco Tech. Students in the Tri-State area and Pennsylvania completing this course gain an innovative education that gives them the skills and experiences they need to find success after graduation. To learn more about our trade programs and how Pennco Tech empowers students to achieve meaningful careers, please contact us today.