High-pressure and low-pressure piping systems are used in the generation of electricity and in the heating and cooling of buildings. Many piping systems are regulated by automatic controls which are accessed remotely. The Industrial Pipefitting program at Kellogg Community College prepares students to install, maintain and repair such systems.
KCC offers a certificate and an associate degree in Industrial Pipefitting, as well as the more generalized Skilled Trades associate degree. Specific requirements can be found in the Academic Catalog.
- Industrial Trades Certificate in Pipefitting (25 credits)
- Associate in Applied Science: Industrial Pipefitting (60 credits)
- Associate in Applied Science: Skilled Trades (60 credits)
Industrial Pipefitting Careers
Pipefitters can find rewarding, long-term employment with companies and private contractors in a variety of settings, including schools, hospitals and manufacturing facilities. Pipefitters also work for utility companies, agricultural operations and municipalities.
Possible job titles for graduates with an education in industrial pipefitting include:
- Brazers
- Cutters
- Mechanical engineering technicians
- Pipefitters
- Plumbers
- Solderers
- Steamfitters
- Welders
With additional education after the program, opportunities include:
- Business/shop owner
- Maintenance supervisor
- Mechanical drafter
- Mechanical engineer
Projected Job Outlook & Salary Info
For the latest employment and wage estimates for Industrial Pipefitting careers in Michigan, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics website.
Course Sequences
Unlike traditional academic courses, the offerings in this program consist of short modules that are components of larger units. Modules are often less than one credit apiece and can be completed at a student’s own pace in a matter of hours or days. Units range from one to 30 modules, depending on the area of instruction.
Industrial Pipefitting modules carry the course designator INPF as detailed in the most recent Fall 2021 Pipefitting Cost Sheet. Units in this program include:
| Unit | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Unit 05 | Safety | 1 |
| Unit 10 | Pipefitting Science | .25 |
| Unit 15 | Blueprint Reading | .91 |
| Unit 20 | Introduction to Pipefitting | 2.5 |
| Unit 25 | Mathematics for Pipefitting | 2.63 |
| Unit 30 | Pipefitting | 3.66 |
| Unit 35 | Plumbing | 2.77 |
| Unit 40 | Fire Protection | 1.13 |
| Unit 45 | Thermodynamics of Heat | .72 |
| Unit 50 | Expansion | .08 |
| Unit 55 | Pumps | .84 |
| Unit 60 | Flow Control | 3.17 |
| Unit 65 | Compressed Air | .38 |
| Unit 70 | Steam | 2.05 |
| Unit 75 | Boilers | 3.33 |
| Unit 80 | Piping Maintenance | .50 |
Transfer Opportunities
Transfer Guides are available to view opportunities for students looking to transfer their KCC credits to a four-year institution. Popular transfer destinations for KCC’s Industrial Pipefitting students include Siena Heights University and Western Michigan University.
For additional advice on transfer opportunities, contact our academic advising department.
