AboutBelinda R. Gattman Expertise Most on welding and fabrication, blueprints, pipefitting, orbital welding.
I can give advice on technique and choosing the right rods, process, and material to use. I know a few short cuts to use that may help in different areas. I have helped train new welders and have been welding in the construction industry for 31 years.
Experience I have worked in the construction industry 31 years. I have worked in several environments that would include petrol-chemical, nuclear, pharmaceutical, paper mills, clear room facilities, and much more.
Education/Credentials Diploma in Welding Technology - 1976 Augusta Tech. College
Diplomas in Industrial Mechanical Control Tech. specializing in Instrumentation Installation and Electrical Installations -2006-Savannah Tech. College.
Associates Degree in HVAC - 2006 - Savannah Tech. College
Question QUESTION: Ms Gattman,
I am looking to change careers and want to get into welding. I have been urged by several welder friends from out-of-state to get a job as a helper on the pipeline. I am finding that it is easier to get into the Masonic temple than get info from locals on where they meet in the a.m. or at least the name of the current contractor in my area on the project so I can "wait my turn" as a 'pick-up' helper. Do you have any advice for me?
ANSWER: Have you tried the local union hall? That's where I would start. If you are looking for a non union job and have the money to go out of town call Fluor-Daniels-1-888-staffme, or Brown and Root, Houston, TX.; H.B. Zachary, San Antonio, TX; BE&K, these are just a few. Sorry I don't have the numbers for the rest but you can get them by calling info for them.
If you just want to go on the pipeline, as far as i know, that is a union job. You will have to go to apprentice school at the local hall to become a journeyman unless you have the experience to pass the pipefitters test and then the weld test. Since you don't know how to weld, you will learn this at the hall or go to your local tech. school for welding.
I don't know if this helps you or not and welding is not something you learn over night, but if i can do it just about anyone can.
Wish you much luck, let me know how you do.
Belinda
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QUESTION: That seems to be my biggest problem. No one can tell me what the 'local' union is. I have the main union which is 798 but no one can tell me where the local office is in the Northern Virginia metro area. It is frustrating and that is what i meant when I stated "it is easier to get into the Masonic temple" but I have to keep looking for that info. LOL You have given me info that is still helpful/hopeful. Thank you kindly.
Answer On the Internet, under goggle, type in plumbers and steamfitters union. Then you can type in your town and you should be able to find your closest union. please let me know if this helps. If not let me know what town and I'll see if I can find it for you.
