Recently, we took the opportunity to interview j’Amey and Emile to gather some specific information as to what a career as a Boilermaker requires from and offers an individual. We recognize that having such information provided by Industry experts well assist and enable you to identify students best suited for this unique career path.
1. First of all, what is a boilermaker?
Boilermakers build, erect, and maintain pressure vessel equipment in heavy industry sectors. We work in industries such as refineries, nuclear plants, steel mills, pulp and paper, power boilers, hydroelectric power, shipbuilding, storage tanks, and fabrication shops. The Boilermakers’ union employs fitters, riggers, and welders. Individuals can specialize based on their interests and the demand in their jurisdiction.
2. Why should a Canadian high school student consider a career as a boilermaker?
It’s an ideal trade for someone who enjoys hands-on work, problem-solving, adventure, traveling across Canada, and being part of a team. With our apprenticeship program, you’ll be guided by local training coordinators, and you’ll have the advantage of earning while you learn.
From apprenticeship to leadership, pursuing a career as a Boilermaker offers endless opportunities.
3. What are some characteristics that an individual pursuing a career as a boilermaker should possess?
Boilermakers are hands-on workers who are curious about how things operate and enjoy tackling challenges. If you’re open to traveling for work or putting in overtime, you can enjoy significant earning potential. Plus, you’ll be supported by strong union agreements that ensure fair treatment, wages and benefits.
4. Are you able to tell us about the training / apprenticeship program for a student considering a career is a boilermaker? (For example, length of apprenticeship, what’s involved, tuition, timeline)?
The Boilermaker apprenticeship is approximately 6,000 hours, depending on the province. Typically, apprentices work around 1,500 hours per year, completing the program in about four years. The program includes three levels of in-school training, each lasting 8 weeks which is necessary to complete the RED SEAL Journey Person Certificate. Some unions cover the tuition costs, but if not, tuition ranges from $500 to $1,000 per level, depending on the province.
5. Once enrolled in the apprenticeship program, will individuals have the opportunity to earn while they learn?
Yes. One of the greatest advantages of an apprenticeship is that you get paid while learning your trade. You’ll work alongside experienced journey people who will mentor you on the job site. In addition, the union will provide ongoing training throughout your apprenticeship and career.
6. Upon completion of the apprenticeship program, what type of employment opportunities would be available to an individual?
Boilermakers work in various heavy construction and maintenance sectors across Canada. There are also opportunities to grow into leadership roles. Our unions offer field supervisor leadership training as well as project management training. There are many employment opportunities across Canada with the Boilermakers.
7. Can you give us an idea of what the employment placement rate is for those who recently complete the apprenticeship program?
As a construction boilermaker, you’ll likely work with multiple employers at different locations throughout the year. Our work is cyclical, with periods of heavy overtime making up for slower times. Boilermakers have considerable earning potential due to the nature of our work and high demand. The future job outlook is promising, especially as Boilermakers are increasingly involved in clean energy initiatives and play a critical role in future power generation projects.
8. What is an average salary of an individual who recently completes the apprenticeship program?
This depends on the individual. If the individual is willing to travel some Boilermakers can make anywhere between $80,000 and $150,000.
9. Is there any advice you can offer students considering a career is a boilermaker?
Be prepared to work hard, embrace continuous learning, travel when needed, and enjoy the camaraderie of meeting great people along the way.
If you know a person that likes a challenge, enjoys working with others, is interested in a solid career with a great benefits package that includes a pension plan that many are envious of, then the boilermaker trade is one they should consider!
