Boilermaker course in TVET colleges

By Thandazo · Jul 15, 2024

If you enjoy working with your hands, are detail-oriented, and have a gift for problem-solving, then the Boilermaker course could be a good career for you. In this article we will be exploring Boilermaker course at TVET Colleges in South Africa and answer some frequently asked questions.

Boilermaker course in TVET colleges

You might be wondering, What is a Boilermaker? Well, a boilermaker is a skilled artisan who work with steel, iron, and other metals to fabricate, assemble, and repair boilers, pressure vessels, and various metal structures. Boilermakers are highly wanted in industries like power generation, shipbuilding, mining, and construction.

A boilermaker course prioritizes a combination of classroom instruction and on-the-job training under the guidance of experienced Boilermakers and lecturers. Students spend a significant portion of their time in workshops, learning the intricacies of welding, cutting, shaping, and assembling metal components. The curriculum is designed to equip TVET College students with the specific skills and knowledge employers are looking for.

Students learn about blueprints, safety protocols, working with different types of metals, and using specialized tools and machinery. Upon graduation, students are qualified for various positions in the boiler making industry. You could work on-site in construction projects, shipyards, or power plants, or find employment in fabrication shops.

Where can I study boilermaker?

The following TVET Colleges in South Africa offer boilermaker course:

Central Johannesburg TVET College
Majuba TVET College
South Cape TVET College
False Bay TVET College
Vuselela TVET College
Northlink TVET College
Ekurhuleni East TVET College
Coastal KZN TVET College
Tshwane South TVET College
Tshwane North TVET College
Northern Cape Rural TVET College

NB: Consult with your local TVET College or any public TVET College you would love to enrol to, if they offer the boilermaker course.

Boilermaker Course Requirements

The specific requirements for Boilermaker courses at TVET Colleges in South Africa vary slightly, the best way to find the exact entry requirements for a Boilermaker course is to visit the website of the specific TVET College you're interested in but here's a general guideline:

Grade 9 Certificate: This is the most common minimum requirement. Some colleges might ask for a minimum pass in Mathematics (around 50%).
Grade 12 Certificate with Math & Physical Science: This can be an alternative entry point for some colleges, especially for those not requiring a Grade 9 certificate. Colleges might have a minimum pass percentage requirement in these subjects as well.
Placement Tests: Some colleges might require you to take placement tests in numeracy and literacy to assess your basic skills.
Experience (Optional): While not always mandatory, some colleges might prefer applicants with some prior experience working with metal or in a workshop environment.
Important Considerations:

Boilermaker course in TVET colleges in Pretoria:

Tshwane North TVET College
Tshwane South TVET College

Boilermaker course in TVET colleges in Durban:

Coastal TVET College
Elangeni TVET College

Boilermaker course in TVET colleges in Limpopo:

Boilermaker course in TVET colleges in Mpumalanga:

Nkangala TVET College
Gert Sibande TVET College
Ehlanzeni TVET College

Boilermaker course in TVET colleges in Gauteng:

Westcol TVET College
Sedibeng TVET College
Ekurhuleni East TVET College
Ekurhuleni West TVET College
South West Gauteng TVET College
Tshwane North TVET College
Tshwane South TVET College
Central Johannesburg TVET College

Boilermaker course in TVET colleges in KZN:

Thekwini TVET College
Umfolozi TVET College
Majuba TVET College
Mnambithi TVET College
Umgungundlovu TVET College.
Mthashana TVET College
Coastal TVET College
Elangeni TVET College
Esayidi TVET College

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long are boilermaker courses?

Boilermaker courses in TVET Colleges range from 3 to 12 months, this usually includes classroom learning (theory). Practical training usually range from 12 to 24 months depending on the apprenticeship you got. t's important to research specific colleges and their Boilermaker programmes to get a clear idea of their overall length. It will take you about 2 years to be a qualified boilermaker.

Can I do boilermaker without matric?

you can pursue a Boilermaker Course at a TVET College in South Africa without a matric certificate. The typical minimum entry requirement is a Grade 9 certificate. It's important to remember that specific entry requirements may vary by college. So, your best course of action is to research the colleges you're interested in and directly contact their admissions department if you have any questions about their Boilermaker course requirements.

What is a boilermaker's salary in SA?

The salary of a boilermaker in South Africa can vary depending on several factors, including:

Experience: Entry-level boilermakers naturally earn less than those with years of experience under their belt.
Location: Salaries might differ slightly depending on the province or region you work in.
Industry: The specific industry you work in (construction, power generation, shipbuilding) can influence your salary.
Qualifications: Additional qualifications or certifications beyond the basic Boilermaker training can increase your earning potential.

Here's a range to give you a general idea:

Entry-level (less than 1 year experience): Around R76,000 per year (R63 per hour)
Mid-career (5-9 years experience): Around R98,000 per year (R82 per hour)
Experienced (10+ years experience): Around R112,000 per year (R93 per hour)
Late-career (20+ years experience): Around R117,000 per year (R97 per hour)

What is the aps score for the boilermaker course?

Boilermaker courses at South African TVET Colleges typically don't have an APS (Admission Point Score) requirement. APS is more commonly used for university admissions, while TVET Colleges often have different entry criteria.

Can I do boilermaker with maths literacy?

Majority of South African TVET Colleges require pure maths to apply for a boilermaker course, this simply means that with Maths Literacy, you have limited chances to be admitted.

Which subject is best for boilermaker?

The following subjects are best if you want to pursue a boilermaker qualification:

Mathematics
Physical Science
Additional Beneficial Subjects (Optional): (Technical Drawing/Drafting, Engineering Graphics and Workshop Skills/Metalwork

Where can a boilermaker work?

Boilermakers are skilled tradespeople in high demand across various industries in South Africa. Here's a breakdown of some common workplaces for boilermakers:

Power Generation:

This is a major employer of boilermakers, as they're responsible for constructing, maintaining, and repairing boilers in power plants. These boilers generate steam to drive turbines for electricity production.

Shipbuilding and Repair:

Boilermakers play a crucial role in building and maintaining ships. They work on boiler systems used for propulsion and other functions on board vessels.

Construction:

Boilermakers are involved in various construction projects, from building boilers for heating systems in large buildings to fabricating metal structures and pressure vessels.

Mining:

The mining industry employs boilermakers for tasks like maintaining and repairing boilers used in processing plants and for generating power at mining sites.

Oil and Gas:

Boilermakers might be involved in building and maintaining boilers used in refineries or for processing and transporting oil and gas products.

Fabrication Shops:

Some boilermakers work in specialized fabrication shops that manufacture boilers, pressure vessels, and other metal structures for various industries.

Self-Employment:

Experienced boilermakers with entrepreneurial skills might choose to become self-employed, offering their services to different clients on a contract basis.

Additional Factors:

Location: Job opportunities for boilermakers can vary depending on the location. Areas with a strong presence of these industries (power plants, shipyards) will naturally have more demand.
Specialization: As boilermakers gain experience, they might specialize in a particular area like boiler repairs, welding techniques, or working with specific materials.

What does a boilermaker do in the mines?

In the South African mining industry, boilermakers play a crucial role in keeping operations running smoothly. Their specific tasks can vary depending on the type of mine and the equipment used, but here are some of the common responsibilities:

Maintenance and Repair of Boilers: Mines often utilize boilers for various purposes, such as generating steam for power or heating processes used in ore processing. Boilermakers are responsible for maintaining these boilers, performing regular inspections, and fixing any breakdowns that may occur.
Fabrication and Installation of Metal Structures: Mines often involve complex metal structures, including ventilation systems, piping networks, and support beams. Boilermakers might be involved in the fabrication and installation of these structures using their skills in metal cutting, welding, and assembly.
Repair of Mining Equipment: Various mining equipment, like haul trucks or processing machinery, might have metal components that need repair or replacement. Boilermakers can use their welding and fabrication skills to fix these components, minimizing downtime and ensuring smooth operation of the equipment.
Pressure Vessel Maintenance: Mines might utilize pressure vessels for storing compressed air or other gases used in various processes. Boilermakers are responsible for ensuring the safety and functionality of these pressure vessels through regular inspections and maintenance procedures.
Working with Different Materials: While steel is a common material, boilermakers in mines might also work with other metals depending on the specific needs. This could involve working with aluminum, stainless steel, or even specialized alloys used in certain mining equipment.

How much is a boilermaker course?

The cost of a Boilermaker course at a TVET College in South Africa can vary depending on several factors but if you are funded by NSFAS or any other external bursaries you wont have to cover the cost of the boilermaker course. Generally the costs of a boilermaker course can range from R8,500 - R20,000 (This is an estimate – some colleges might offer shorter programs at a lower cost)

Is boilermaker a good career?

Whether boilermaker is a good career for you depends on your interests and priorities. Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons to help you decide:

Pros:

High Demand & Job Security: Boilermakers are in high demand across various industries in South Africa. With the focus on infrastructure development and skilled trades, job security is promising.
Competitive Salary & Benefits: Qualified boilermakers can expect good salaries and benefits packages, making this a financially rewarding career choice.
Hands-on & Practical Work: If you enjoy working with your hands, solving problems, and building things, boiler making offers a fulfilling and practical work environment.
Sense of Accomplishment: Boilermakers contribute to essential infrastructure projects and play a crucial role in keeping various industries running smoothly. This can provide a sense of accomplishment and pride in your work.
Career Progression & Specialization: With experience and additional training, boilermakers can progress to supervisory roles or specialize in specific areas, leading to further career advancement.
Skilled Trade with Transferable Skills: The skills you learn as a boilermaker, such as welding and metalwork, can be valuable assets in other skilled trades or even self-employment opportunities.

Cons:

Physically Demanding: Boiler making is a physically demanding job that involves lifting heavy objects, working in awkward positions, and exposure to heat and welding fumes.
Potential for Injuries: There's always a risk of injuries when working with heavy machinery and hot metals. Safety precautions are crucial to minimize these risks.
Limited Workspace Options: While boilermakers can work in various industries, some settings might be less comfortable, like working outdoors in harsh weather conditions or confined spaces.
Non-traditional Work Schedule: Boilermakers might sometimes need to work irregular hours to meet project deadlines or handle emergencies.

The Boilermaker course at TVET Colleges offers a unique opportunity to gain valuable skills and knowledge in a practical learning environment. If you're looking for a rewarding career path in the skilled trades, this course could be the perfect first step towards building a successful future!

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