Sheet metal workers design, fabricate, assemble, install and repair sheet metal products. In fabrication work, sheet metal workers lay out and measure pieces to specifications. They use tools such as power shears, press brakes, drill presses and computerized cutting equipment to cut and shape material. They assemble and join the pieces using various techniques such as welding and using mechanical fasteners. They work with black iron, galvanized steel, stainless steel, aluminium, copper, brass, nickel, tin plate and other alloys. Some may also work with fibreglass, ceramics, plastics and other metal substitutes. Pieces may be laid out and cut in the shop and assembled on construction or industrial sites. Sheet metal workers may specialize in onsite installation, shop manufacture, or servicing and maintenance of installed equipment and systems. Those who work in installation may specialize in heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC), boiler lagging / vessel cladding, roofing products, architectural sheet metal, custom metal products, food service products, secondary systems for environmental projects, pneumatic conveyance or signage.
Employers in this trade include sheet metal fabrication shops, manufacturing companies of sheet metal, and air conditioning and heating contractors. Sheet metal workers may be involved in residential, industrial, commercial, institutional and construction sectors. Key attributes for people entering this trade are mechanical and mathematical aptitude, hand-eye coordination, spatial perception and manual dexterity. Good physical condition is important because the work often requires considerable standing, climbing, lifting and carrying. Hazards of the trade include working with sharp metal pieces, working at heights and heat from welding and cutting processes. Sheet metal workers often have to work in adverse weather and environmental conditions.
Experienced sheet metal workers may become specialists in design and layout, estimators, supervisors or business owners.
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Lather (Interior Systems Mechanic)
Lathers handle, erect and install materials that are components in the construction of all or part of a structure. They lay out and install framework for ceiling systems, interior and exterior walls, floors and roofs. Lathers install various types of ceilings (e.g. suspended, spanned, direct contact), shielded walls (e.g. fire,... More >
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Youth employment programs and services
The Career Focus program provides funding for employers to offer post-secondary graduates opportunities to obtain career-related work experience. The objective of this program is to help youth acquire advanced employment skills and facilitate their transition to a rapidly changing labour market. This program connects youth with employers who can provide... More >
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What Social Workers Do
Social Workers are usually employed in hospitals, community health centers, mental health clinics, schools, advocacy organizations, government departments, social service agencies, child welfare settings, family service agencies, correctional facilities, social housing organizations, family courts, employee assistance programs and private counselling, school boards, and consultation agencies. More >
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Carpenter
A carpenter is a tradesperson who possesses the full range of knowledge and abilities required to construct, renovate and repair institutional, commercial, industrial (I.C.I.) and residential structures made of wood, steel, concrete and other materials. They can work for a wide array of employers, including construction firms, building owners and... More >
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Recreation Vehicle Service Technician
Recreation vehicle (RV) service technicians work on systems and components of recreation vehicles, including electrical components, plumbing, propane gas components, appliances, exterior and interior components, structural frames and towing systems. They diagnose, repair, replace, install, adjust, test, maintain and modify these components and systems. They may also perform maintenance and... More >
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Heavy Duty Equipment Technician
A heavy duty equipment technician is a tradesperson who possesses the full range of knowledge, abilities and skills required to diagnose, repair, adjust, overhaul, maintain, operate and test mobile heavy duty off-road equipment. Heavy duty equipment technicians are employed by companies that own and operate heavy equipment, heavy equipment dealerships,... More >
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Instrumentation and Control Technician
Instrumentation and control technicians work on measuring and controlling instrumentation. They also service plant process control, monitoring, safety and communications systems. They are knowledgeable in overall plant systems and interactions of processes. Some of the duties of instrumentation and control technicians are: 1. Consulting diagrams and technical documentation such as... More >
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National Health Sciences Students' Association
The National Health Sciences Students' Association (NaHSSA) was established in 2005, and it is the first national interprofessional student association in the world. NaHSSA is a network of local university and college-based chapters that promote interprofessional education and practice within Canada. It enables students to advocate for and learn from... More >