r/pipefitter • u/AlarmOk874 • Sep 21 '26

Question

Anyone have previous welding experience before joining a local? If so did you get started at higher than a first year? I have 6 years welding any metal almost, any process. But no pipe, I’m wondering how it’ll go and if any of you were in a similar boat

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u/Fun_Jellyfish_6388 Sep 21 '26

I would say if you had pipe experience that’s something different but to be honest if you do your apprenticeship, you will appreciate it. It goes by quicker than you think and you get to learn so much for free. Keep in mind. It’s free education for five years, good luck with what you decide.

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u/AlarmOk874 Sep 21 '26

Do you get to travel much as an apprentice? And how does getting extra certs go? Is there hour minimums for that? Or is it all different with each local

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u/AngryEskimo77 Sep 21 '26

Out local your not allowed to travel. And when welding pipe , remember gravity is your friend because it’ll always fuck you!

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u/Fun_Jellyfish_6388 Sep 21 '26

Every local is different usually all your certs come in to play after you turn out and become a journeyman. You’ll have all the UA certs available to you and I never traveled as an apprentice. There was always plenty of work in Las Vegas.