Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/796533
12 March, 2017 l Working World l WorkingWorld.com • Repair or replace wiring, equipment, or fixtures using hand tools and power tools • Follow state and local building regulations based on the National Electrical Code • Direct and train workers to install, maintain, or repair electrical wiring or equipment Almost every building has an electrical power, communications, lighting, and control system that is installed during construction and maintained after that. Installing electrical systems in newly constructed buildings is often less complicated than maintaining equipment in existing buildings because electrical wiring is more easily accessible during construction. Maintaining equipment and systems involves identifying problems and repairing broken equipment that is sometimes difficult to reach. Maintenance work may include fixing or replacing parts, light fixtures, control systems, motors, and other types of electrical equipment. Electricians read blueprints, which are technical diagrams of electrical systems that show the location of circuits, outlets, and other equipment. They use different types of hand and power tools, such as conduit benders, to run and protect wiring. Other commonly used hand and power tools include screwdrivers, wire strippers, drills, and saws. While troubleshooting, electricians also may use ammeters, voltmeters, thermal scanners, and cable testers to find problems and ensure that components are working properly. Many electricians work alone, but sometimes they collaborate with others. For example, experienced electricians may work with building engineers and architects to help design electrical systems for new construction. PLUMBING, PIPEFITTING AND STEAMFITTING This area of work is similar to the past two in how you're able to become a professional – you can either go to a technical school and then join a formal apprenticeship program, or you can go straight into a formal apprenticeship program. Plumbers fall somewhere between HVACR workers and electricians, with a median annual wage of just over $49,000 ($22.62 hourly), and a job growth outlook of 21% over the next 10 years or so. Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters install and repair pipes that carry liquids or gases to, from, and within businesses, homes, and factories. Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters typically do the following: • Install pipes and fixtures • Study blueprints and follow state and local building codes • Determine the amount of material and type of equipment needed • Inspect and test installed pipe systems and pipelines • Troubleshoot systems that are not working • Replace worn parts Although plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters perform three distinct and specialized roles, their duties are often similar. For example, they all install pipes and fittings that carry water, steam, air, or other liquids or gases. They connect pipes, determine the necessary materials for a job, and perform pressure tests to ensure that a pipe system is airtight and watertight. Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters install, maintain, and repair many different types of pipe systems. Some of these systems carry water, dispose of waste, supply gas to ovens, or heat and cool buildings. Other systems, such as those in power plants, carry the steam that powers huge turbines. Pipes also are used in manufacturing plants to move acids, gases, and waste byproducts through the production process. Master plumbers on construction jobs may be involved with developing blueprints that show the placement of all the pipes and fixtures. Their input helps ensure that a structure's plumbing meets building codes, stays within budget, and works well with the location of other features, such as electric wires. Many diagrams are now created digitally using Building Information Modeling (BIM), which allows a building's physical systems to be planned and coordinated across occupations. Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters may use many different materials and construction techniques, depending on the type of project. Residential water systems, for example, use copper, steel, and plastic pipe that one or two plumbers can install. Power plant water systems, by contrast, are made of large steel pipes that usually take a crew of pipefitters to install. Some workers install stainless steel pipes on dairy farms and in factories, mainly to prevent contamination. Plumbers and pipefitters sometimes cut holes in walls, ceilings, and floors. With some pipe systems, workers may hang steel supports from ceiling joists to hold the pipe in place. Because pipes are seldom manufactured to exact lengths, plumbers and pipefitters measure and then cut and bend lengths of pipe as needed. Their tools often include saws and pipe cutters. They then connect the pipes, using methods that vary by type of pipe. For example, copper pipe is joined with solder, whereas steel pipe often is screwed together. In addition to performing installation and repair work, journey- and master-level plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters frequently direct apprentices and helpers. ELEVATOR INSTALLING AND REPAIRING In terms of wages, elevator repairing and installing is where it's at; the median annual wage for this job is over $76,000 per year, which is just below $37 per hour, making it the best paying trade on this list. For this job, you have to do four years of paid apprenticeship, be over 18, and have a high school diploma or equivalent to start in the program. In recent years, demand for this skilled labor job has grown significantly; the job growth in elevator installing and repairing is 25% over the next 10 years, well above the average. Elevator installers and repairers install, fix, and maintain elevators, escalators, moving walkways, and other lifts. Elevator installers and repairers typically do the following: • Read blueprints to determine the equipment needed for installation or repair • Install or repair elevator doors, cables, motors, and control systems • Locate malfunctions in brakes, motors, switches, and control systems • Connect electrical wiring to control panels and electric motors • Use test equipment, such as ammeters and voltmeters, to diagnose problems • Adjust counterweights, door mechanisms, and safety controls • Test newly installed equipment to ensure that it meets specifications • Ensure elevator compliance with safety regulations and building codes HOTTEST TRADES continued from page 10