Shipfitter

Shipfitters have the unique satisfaction of watching their efforts transform an assemblage of oddly shaped pieces of steel into a structure of strength and grace. Shipfitters are responsible for all structural phases of hull construction. In addition to fitting and tack welding the large subassemblies that form the hull, shipfitters build in-place all interior structures, hatches, doors, bulkheads, etc., to complete all the steel work in the ship. Shipfitters must be familiar with all phases of the steel construction process in the shipyard, and apprentices receive training and experience within a number of different related departments. While a ship is under construction, a shipfitter's assignments may vary from installing a simple foundation for a small component to working with a team in erecting and setting a 300-ton assembly in the ship. The apprentice learns all phases of the shipfitter trade from planning to fabrication and finally, precise installation.