Boilermaker
History

The boilermaker trade has a long history.  For over 100 years boilermakers have been hard at work building the modern society we all enjoy today.  Boilermakers are responsible for building many of the technological, mechanical, and industrial advancements we all take for granted.

Steam engines were used to power many machines, trains and ships in the 19th Century. A boiler was an essential part of a steam engine as it was used to heat water to create steam. Boilers were made of plates of metal or tubes that were cut, bent and shaped by the boilermakers.  Boilers are also used to generate the electricity we all use by turning steam turbines at power plants around the world.  The railroad industry relied on boilers to drive the steam locomotives.  Boilermakers installed most of the piping used in the hydroelectric dams still in operation today.

When the navy sends its aircraft carries and submarines to defend our country you see the hard work of boilermakers who proudly contributed to the defense readiness of the United States of America.  The Nasa booster rockets and the water you drink that comes from the familar water towers are made by boilermakers.  When you turn on the light in your home or business you can be proud to know that boilermakers built the power plant that supplies millions of homes with the electricity needed to live the lifestyle we all enjoy every day.

Boilermakers also worked as general metal workers rolling, shearing, welding, riveting and making metal structures and machines. They built steam trains, constructed metal bridges and built iron and steel ships.

Boilermakers perform physically demanding and dangerous work. They often work outdoors in all types of weather, including in extreme heat and cold.

Because boilers, storage tanks, and pressure vessels are large, boilermakers often work at great heights. When working on a dam, for example, they may be hundreds of feet above the ground.

Boilermakers also work in cramped quarters inside boilers, vats, or tanks that are often dark, damp, and poorly ventilated.

Although boilermakers often use dangerous equipment, they have lower rates of injuries and illnesses than many other construction occupations. Still, common injuries include burns from acetylene torches, cuts from power grinders, muscle strains from lifting heavy parts and tools, and falls from ladders or large vessels.

To reduce the chance of injury, boilermakers often wear hardhats, harnesses, protective clothing, earplugs, and safety glasses. In addition, when working inside enclosed spaces, boilermakers often must wear a respirator.

Nearly all boilermakers work fulltime and may experience extended periods of overtime when equipment is shut down for maintenance. Overtime work also may be necessary to meet construction or production deadlines, especially during the spring and fall seasons. In contrast, because most field construction and repair work is contract work, there may be periods of unemployment when a contract is complete.

Many boilermakers must travel to work sites and live away from home for long periods.

READY TO ENJOY A REWARDING CAREER AS A BOILERMAKER?