Before I do that, I need to take a minute to acknowledge and pay respect to the pioneers and veterans of this industry because, without them, this trade would not be where it is today. Interpreted architectural/mechanical blue prints. Installed commercial grade fire protection sprinkler systems, Tested machinery, equipment and parts to identify any defects, Set up and monitored testing of new and improved components. the education and training of its members. Lead apprentices in training, resulting in added revenue for the union. Looking back, I was being taught the importance of ensuring I knew what tools and materials were needed for a job, time is valuable, and dedication is key. Columbia, MD 21046, UA Sprinkler Fitters Local 669 Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee, Copyright 2022 - Training 669: Sprinkler Fitters Local 669 JATC. Selection, measuring, cutting, and installation of piping, Connecting piping systems to water mains, supply tanks, pumps. However, the pipes and fittings used on one system will not necessarily work on another. Brought buildings up to current NFPA codes and regulations. Cutting, threading and making up of black iron sprinkler pipe from 1in to 6 inch. All drawings, buildings, ceiling, walls, stairs, etc. American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA), Fire Protection, Detection, and Suppression Systems, Assembling and bonding all the pipes and tubes, Making sure the system will pass every fire inspection, Working with cutting torches, saws, drills, and wrenches, You will need to be in good physical health, You must be able to read and write the English language, You must be able to be legally employed in the United States, You will need to have a valid drivers license, You must pass the aptitude exam and an oral interview, in most cases, You will need to have transportation to get to and from your job. Completed many jobs that turned a profit as a result of efficient labor and operational practices.
Work overtime, which includes weekends to respond to emergencies. Fire Protection, Detection, and Suppression Systems, Responded quickly to assess, troubleshoot and diagnose equipment breakdowns, working aggressively to restore operations as quickly as possible, Collaborative with respective skilled trades to complete repairs, Trained and mentored apprentice Sprinkler fitters, Earned reward for perfect attendance (2012). According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for plumbers, pipefitters and steamfitters was $55,160 in May 2019. Ensured work was done safely in accordance with OSHA 30 standards, managed company safety meetings and training. 115, Sydney Richardson, Advertising Those interested in a Sprinkler Fitter position should be able to demonstrate the following skills in their resumes: mechanical and construction expertise, practical skills, customer service, attention to details, time management, teamwork, and troubleshooting. When I was accepted into the apprenticeship program, I dove in hard. Its common for sprinkler fitters to work for plumbing companies. Organized anywhere from 3-6 jobs at one time, Traveled to jobs all over Texas and New Mexico fixing leaks and breaks for service, Completed tasks in a timely manner while promoting positive customer service, Mentored junior apprentice team members, providing guidance on proper techniques and safety, Maintained a clean and organized work area, Job oversight, planned and scheduled various construction activities for large building projects, Reported to supervisors, project managers, subcontractors performing work, Ensured that work went according to plans laid out and followed all state and legal specifications and NFPA standards with regards to building practices. It's no wonder we take our jobs so seriously.
This can be a very attractive field for the right candidate. They often install Fire Protection Systems, which include underground and overhead piping, that automatically turn on in the event of a fire. These include: These skills will help you to become a successful sprinkler fitter. Is a career as a sprinkler fitter right for you? As a helper, I was searching for the next step. It doesnt matter who you are, what company you work for, union or non-union, because we are all one. The Sprinkler Fitter wage rate is negotiated state by state, based on the economic conditions of the state. 
Once you have completed your training, you can apply to join a union. Resume samples in the field mention duties such as designing hose systems, installing sprinklers, testing system functionality, repairing defective parts, cutting pipes, welding tubes, and following blueprint specifications. Installed all piping, valves, pumps and all other materials related to a Automatic Fire protection system, Provided proper application in the fabrication of threading, cutting and placement of fittings, gauges, valves and other related materials, Installed Automatic Sprinkler Systems in compliance to blueprints and engineering building drawings, Adhered to all safety, building codes and NFPA codes, Worked safely and cooperated with other various contractors.
Reminding myself every job is different, and each one is a learning experience is something important to me. Sprinkler fitters can expect to earn in a similar range to this. The average pay for a sprinkler fitter apprentice is around $20.45 per hour. Statistics show that buildings with proper fire protection systems suffer twenty-four percent less damage and fire loss than unsprinklered properties. But not meI know that I was made for this; I found my calling. It takes a strong few who excel in hard work, dedication, pride, and respect for and in what you do to make it in this field. If you want to become a sprinkler fitter, you should have a strong interest in fire prevention, plumbing, and solving problems. After the first year, apprentices typically receive a raise every 6 months upon meeting the minimum requirements of their apprenticeship program. You will then need to complete an apprenticeship program, during which you will learn all the skills you need from experienced sprinkle fitters and through instruction. Oftentimes, a fire is brought under control by only three sprinkler heads, sometimes even fewer. Its common to work in both new and older buildings, depending on the job. I put in long days and even longer nights, all while studying, testing, and sometimes failing. Performed 5 year internal obstruction tests on sprinkler systems. So how did I get here? Install and maintain fire protection systems in accordance with, NFPA 13 & NFPA 25 standards. Scheduled inspection routes for service vehicles and acted as dispatcher to direct employees to emergency calls and handled communication with venders. Thank you. Work with construction schedules and general contractor regulations. Its also good to be very organized and have basic engineering knowledge. Installed and supervised the installation, service and repair of wet, dry, pre-action, Halon, FM-200, AFFF systems, Deluge, and CO2 Systems. Yes, you can advance as a sprinkler fitter.
But, everyone on that first day was very patient and courteous, they were willing to show me the ropes.. This includes: To qualify for the Sprinkler Fitters 669 Training Program, you must check to confirm the followingfive items: Address The average of salaries can go anywhere from about $31K to $91K, depending on your experience level and your location. Here are the five most important pieces of advice our professional mentors would share with a student before he/she chooses to pursue a career as a sprinkler fitter: All the members of the union are extremely knowledgeable, and ready to help, said sprinkler fitter Megan Ringwelski. Apprentice will start building a pension once they meet the requirements to begin participation. Sprinkler Fitters are in charge for installing and maintaining sprinkler systems in homes and commercial buildings. Installed sprinkler systems in new construction and retrofits. Both the Health and Welfare and Pension programs are among the finest in the construction industry. Lets look a little closer at what a sprinkler fitter does and how you can become one. have a variation, and its my job to know, so the system works correctly. You will need to consult your local union or trade school to find out the specifics of your apprenticeship program. Checked sprinkler systems for leaks (inspections), Cut, thread and hammer pipes according to pipe system specs, Repair and maintain pipe systems and components, Resolve problem such as obstruction or holes, The installation of fire sprinklers system, Material clean up, with some general labor. They know that when human lives are at stake, there is no room for error and there might not be a second chance to get it done right. Some programs require more or less. These hours will likely be rather common business hours. You can even advance to a supervisor position and earn an even higher salary. Once you have entered the Apprenticeship Program and have completed your six-month probationary period you will become a member of Local 669.
The tasks carried out by sprinkler fitters vary from employer to employer, but there are certain duties that virtually all sprinkler fitters are expected to complete. A sprinkler fitter is responsible for installing, modifying and inspecting sprinkler systems. In areas where there is no local union, a trade school may have a program that will work. Get paid to learn. Testing systems for leaks using water or air. Our Commander and Chief Linda Biernacki, president of Fire Tech Systems, Inc., and AFSA Second Vice Chair of the Board of Directors, has always wanted to better her team members with all the best training. These stories have laid the foundation, and, as a rookie, I have hung on the edge of my seat anytime I was told one of these incredible tales as if I was listening to Homer rant one of his tales from The Odyssey. Perform maintenance on various types of fixed piping fire suppression systems. He graduated from AFSAs apprenticeship training program and competed in AFSAs National Apprentice Competition in 2018. Sprinkler fitters are often tasked with testing these systems and reporting the outcomes to state or local authorities. Sprinkler Fitter Job Profiles: This is a general writeup based on our research into Sprinkler Fitter positions in the Steamfitter career area. If the systems need updating in the future, it will be the sprinkler fitter's job to do so. The best examples from thousands of real-world resumes, Handpicked by resume experts based on rigorous standards, Tailored for various backgrounds and experience levels, Laid out, assembled, installed, and maintained pipe systems, supports, and related equipment for production and processing systems. The Great Resignation Statistics: What it is, Why its Happening, Assembling pipes, tubes and other types of fittings that carry water to and from sprinklers, Testing the sprinkler system to ensure it works, Educating clients on the importance of fire prevention and the importance of checking their sprinkler system is working. I have installed and serviced Wet Systems, Dry Systems and Pre Action Systems. Fire Tech Systems supported me, and it really helped that the program had an awesome teacher that I could trust and had my best at heartthanks, Tracy [Fire Tech System Project Coordinator/Safety Director Tracy Hadwin]!
Regardless, their typical duties and responsibilities include: To become a sprinkler fitter, you will need a high school diploma or equivalent. Responsible for the delivery, handling, and installation of fire sprinkler pipe. Becoming a sprinkler fitter can be a very rewarding career. Interpret and understand NFPA fire sprinkler codes and apply those codes to particular phases of job. I wholeheartedly believe that if you want to make a difference and you do not mind a little dirt and grime, join me, and I will welcome you in open arms as a brother or sister into this industry. Copyright 2017 UA Local 669 | All Rights Reserved | Developed by UnionLaborWorks, Continuing Education & Training for Sprinkler Fitters. View the Construction Career Pathways Sprinkler Fitters page. Please log in to access the Members Only sections. Stories have been told about threading and manhandling massive pipe, wooden jack ladders, scaffolding to chain tongs, and back-breaking endless days and nights. Sprinkler fitter programs require specific skills, which the apprenticeship program will teach but before youth even enter into a program, Construction Careers Foundation educates them on what they are getting into. The best way to become a sprinkler fitter is to contact the local union in your area. Once again, I say THANK YOU to the pioneers and veterans alongside my supervisor and Fire Tech Systems team. Communication with vendors and problem solution resolution. Must be physically fit to do the work of the trade. This is also a career where you can get paid as you gain the necessary training. After completing an apprenticeship program and passing the required exams, sprinkler fitters are qualified to perform tasks independently. And control equipment, Testing systems for leaks using water or air, Reading and interpreting contract drawings, specifications, and fire codes, Servicing and repairing sprinkler systems, Experience working under challenging conditions, Experience working with a variety of hand and power tools. 
