Steamfitting Service Apprentice

Work Description

Steamfitters (Refrigeration/Service) install, start-up, perform preventative maintenance, troubleshoot, diagnose and service heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration systems, equipment and controls in piping systems which carry water, steam, chemicals, compressed air, liquid gases or fuel used in energy production, heating, cooling, food processing, manufacturing, lubricating and other process piping systems.

They install, service, and start-up components of heating, ventilation, refrigeration and air conditioning systems including basic knowledge as follows:

• Blueprint readings, drawings, specifications, and written instructions from manufacturers.
• Rigging, setting, supporting and controlling related equipment.
• Measure, cut, bend, prepare and join all types of pipe, including threading, welding, brazing, soldering, cementing, mechanical joining.
• Pressure test systems to detect leaks.
• Test systems to detect problems in electronic, pneumatic, digital, electrical, software or programmable logic controls.
• Works independently on proper piping practices in the industry and confirms proper function of installed/repaired heating, ventilation, refrigeration and air conditioning systems, equipment and controls.

Work Conditions

The work is performed at various job sites, including new construction, hospitals, industrial, chemical, power and waste water treatment plants, and most other commercial or institutional buildings, as well as residential sites. Work is accomplished in buildings, trenches, on roofs or inside tunnels or confined spaces. Work usually requires exposure to weather conditions, extreme temperatures, and loud noise. Steamfitters (Refrigeration/Service) work both indoors and outdoors at physically demanding tasks that often require climbing and heavy lifting (over 50 lbs.), strenuous physical stamina with walking, standing and working in cramped or high areas using appropriate Personal Protection Equipment. Steamfitters operate various hand and power tools, heavy equipment, welding machines, cutting torches and other industry related equipment.

Training

• Five-year training program
• 8,000 hours on-the-job training
• 500 hours paid related instruction
• Apprentice must complete Red Cross First Aid, CPR and OSHA Safety Training Courses
• Apprentice must attend a certain number of hours of unpaid related instruction determined by the local committee.
• Apprentice must in his/her final year complete the Transition-To-Trainer Course 

Lean more from the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development.

Program Details

Steamfitter (Refrigeration/Service) Apprentice classes may be offered at these Madison College campuses:

• Madison - Commercial Avenue