Working in a harness
on top of a dam
hundreds of feet up…
crouched in a corner
of a storage tank…
sparks flying…
the work of a boilermaker takes strength,
stamina, and the willingness to endure
heights as well as confined spaces.
Boilermakers install and repair boilers,
closed vats, and other large vessels
that are used to process
and store chemicals, oil, beer,
and hundreds of other products.
Boilermakers also build and repair
blast furnaces, water treatment plants,
and pollution abatement equipment.
Some install the huge pipes used in dams.
Boilermakers follow blueprints
to install boilers,
and to test or repair them.
They use flame-cutting torches
and welding equipment,
as well as other hand
and machine tools.
Their work is physically demanding
and dangerous.
They often work outdoors,
sometimes in extreme heat and cold.
They must wear hardhats, safety glasses,
earplugs and other protective clothing…
including respirators
when working in enclosed spaces.
Boilermakers work full time,
but may work overtime
to meet construction deadlines
or to complete work
during an equipment shutdown.
They often travel to worksites…
living away from home for extended periods.
Seasonal unemployment
is not unusual during summer and winter
—off seasons for maintenance—
or when construction projects
have been completed.
After completing high school,
most boilermakers learn their trade
through apprenticeships.
Welding experience is helpful
to qualify for an apprenticeship.