Meet Tom, 17, from Newcastle. He works as an apprentice steel fabricator, building metal structures for A&P, a fabrication and ship repair company. Part of our Bitesize world of work series.
How would you describe your job?
A steel fabricator builds metal structures by cutting, bending, and then putting them together.
Do you use any soft skills in your job?
Normally when I come in, I find out what my job is. I usually get a metal grinder, which is used to finish off rough edges. If it’s cold, I need a torch to heat the metal up. Then I grind the metal to make it look good. I also measure when I’m fitting bits of metal plate.
What skills do you use?
I have to be very precise with what I do, because the measurement must be exact. Also, team work is important, because we normally work in pairs. Good communication is needed as well, because I’m working with people that could be from different places. I also have to manage my time and listen to people as well.
What was your educational career path?
I did 11 GCSEs, so all the mandatory ones. I also had to pick a language, Resistant Materials and IT. I stood out at Resistant Materials, so that’s why I went on to do a hands-on job. After school I applied through Tyne North Training to do an apprenticeship at A&P.
What choices did you make to be where you are now?
There were a lot of times when I could’ve gone out with friends, but I stayed home and revised. That’s how I’ve got the job now. I’d like to go on to do health and safety. I am trying to do a first aid course as well.
Top tips
- Definitely do an apprenticeship. It’s the best way to start off your life. You can follow your skill, learn on the job, and there’s also the bonus of getting a bit of money
- Also if you don‘t do well in your exams, don’t worry about it – just keep trying and pushing.
A similar job to steel fabricator is steel erector. A steel erector assembles the beams and girders that support the structure of buildings, stadiums, bridges and tunnels.
What to expect if you want to be a steel erector
- Steel erector average salary: £24,000 to £40,000 per year
- Steel erector typical working hours: 40 to 48 hours per week
What qualifications do you need to be a steel erector?
You could get into this role via a college course, an apprenticeship or applying directly.
Sources: National Careers Service
This information is a guide and is constantly changing. Please check the National Careers Service website for the latest information and all the qualifications needed.
For careers advice in all parts of the UK visit: National Careers Service (England), nidirect (Northern Ireland), My World of Work (Scotland) and Careers Wales (Wales).
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