UA Local 123 – Steamfitter/Pipefitter Apprenticeship
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UA Local 123 – Steamfitter/Pipefitter Apprenticeship (Dover, FL)
Program Information
The UA Local 123 Steamfitter/Pipefitter Apprenticeship provides one of the most technically advanced skilled-trade training paths in the construction and industrial sectors. Steamfitters and pipefitters are highly trained professionals who layout, fabricate, install, assemble, maintain, and repair complex piping systems that transport liquids, steam, chemicals, gases, slurries, and high-pressure fluids across residential, commercial, and large-scale industrial environments. This trade requires strong mechanical aptitude, mathematical competency, and an understanding of scientific principles related to pressure, temperature, metallurgy, and system integrity.
Participants in the program learn to work on piping systems found in power plants, manufacturing facilities, oil refineries, nuclear stations, food-processing plants, hospitals, paper mills, and large commercial buildings. Steamfitters/pipefitters are the only trade fully trained and certified to design, install, and maintain both low-pressure and high-pressure steam systems. These systems often operate under extreme conditions, requiring precise workmanship, advanced planning skills, and strict adherence to safety standards.
Training includes instruction in blueprint reading, isometric drawing, system layout, pipe fabrication, rigging, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and the mechanical operation of boilers, chillers, pumps, valves, and pressure-reducing stations. Apprentices gain hands-on experience preparing pipe, fitting components, threading, grooving, cutting, welding, and brazing. They also learn proper installation procedures for carbon steel, stainless steel, copper, PVC, PEX, and specialty alloys used in high-temperature and corrosive environments.
The UA Local 123 Training Center provides fully equipped welding booths, fabrication labs, rigging setups, hydraulic and pneumatic training modules, and real-world steam and mechanical system simulators. Classroom instruction is led by UA-certified instructors with years of field experience in industrial piping, mechanical construction, plant operations, and pressure system maintenance. Apprentices are trained in OSHA standards, confined space procedures, fall protection, industrial safety, and best practices for working on energized or high-pressure systems.
A major focus of the apprenticeship is preparing students for the diverse roles they will encounter in the field. Apprentices learn hydrostatic testing, system balancing, valve operation, pipe supports, heat tracing, industrial shutdown work, troubleshooting, system commissioning, and preventive maintenance procedures. Many also complete supplemental training such as welding certifications, medical gas installation training, and pressure piping endorsements. Upon completing the program, apprentices become highly skilled journeymen steamfitters/pipefitters with the ability to work on some of the most technically demanding mechanical systems in the world.
Program Length
Five-year apprenticeship with extensive hands-on piping, mechanical, and steam system training combined with classroom instruction at the UA Local 123 Training Center.
Program Requirements
- Apply in person at the UA Local 123 Training Center, 3601 McIntosh Road, Dover, FL 33527
- Valid driver’s license
- Social Security card
- Birth certificate
- High school diploma or GED
- High school transcripts
- DD214 for military applicants
- Reliable transportation
Training Center Highlights
- Full welding and fabrication facilities
- Rigging and hoisting training equipment
- Live mechanical systems for real-world practice
- Steam system installation and troubleshooting labs
- Advanced UA-certified instructors
- Continuing education and upgrade training throughout career
Apprenticeship Cost & Career Outlook
UA Local 123 – Steamfitter/Pipefitter Apprenticeship is a Registered Apprenticeship Program — meaning you can earn while you learn through paid on-the-job training in Steamfitters.
- Paid on-the-job training with step increases as you progress
- Classroom / technical instruction is part of the program structure
- Training costs are often low — but you may still pay for tools, books, or fees
- Credential earned at completion is recognized by employers in the industry
Registered apprenticeships are overseen by the U.S. Department of Labor or a State Apprenticeship Agency. Because these programs aren’t traditional colleges, College Scorecard tuition and earnings data usually doesn’t apply.
Step-by-Step Career Guides
The programs and apprenticeships listed on this page relate to hands-on skilled trades. Explore the guides below to learn about training paths, licensing, salaries, and what to expect in each career field.