Red Deer College offers the Sprinkler System Installer Apprentice program, one of the many apprenticeship training options available for students. Apprenticeship is a career option that involves both classroom and on-the-job training. To learn the skills required of an Sprinkler Systems Installer in Alberta and to be issued an Alberta Journeyman Certificate, a person must find a suitable employer who is willing to hire and train an apprentice.

The term of apprenticeship for a Sprinkler Systems Installer is four years (four 12-month periods), including a minimum of 1,600 hours of on-the-job training and seven weeks of technical training in each of the first three years, and a minimum of 1,800 hours of on-the-job training in the fourth year.

Sprinkler Systems Installers are employed in the construction industry. Experienced Sprinkler Systems Installers may advance to supervisory positions or start their own businesses. Sprinkler Systems Installers fabricate, install, test, maintain, inspect and repair sprinkler systems in industrial operations, department stores, office buildings, hotels, schools, hospitals and residences to install wet and dry pipe sprinkler systems, carbon dioxide, chemical and foam extinguishing systems, stand pipe and hose systems and fire pump systems. Installers:

• Read and interpret engineered drawings and specifications to determine layout requirements
• Select the type and size of pipe required and arrange the piping to provide fire protection
• Install clamps, brackets and hangers to support the piping system and sprinkler and fire protection equipment
• Join and connect pipes and piping sections to related piping systems, tanks, mains, pumps, compressors and control equipment using various pipe joining methods
• Test systems for leaks using air or water pressure
• Inspect, maintain and repair piping, fixtures and controls including hydrant, pump and sprinkler head connectors
• May prepare cost estimates for clients

If you have a valid Alberta Journeyman Certificate, you are eligible to receive a Blue Seal business credential after completing the necessary requirements.

For fee information, visit the Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training website.