Heavy Metal Fabricator

To assure fast, economical and efficient construction, every attempt is made to build ships from pre-assembled units. The construction of these units begins in the shipyard's 6-1/2 acre Steel Fabrication Shop. In this huge complex, heavy metal fabricator apprentices receive the bulk of their training. The apprentices are taught the processes involved in the preparation of the steel, from its initial receipt in the form of steel plates and shapes to completion as a component ready for assembly. The apprentice is trained to lay out and develop templates and molds. These define the shape of the component and locate areas for various types of fabrication. The student learns to operate the various saws, burning torches and shears needed to make the cuts in the steel. To fabricate shaped and curved pieces, the apprentice operates large bending, punching and drilling machines and is taught the use of assorted hand tools and tack welding techniques. To facilitate material handling, training is provided in the mechanics and operation of fork lifts, overhead cranes and control towers. The apprentice also receives instruction in the Shipfitters Department, where units are assembled from the fabricated steel.