Training to become an artisan is a rewarding career path | Top 9 Steps
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Training to become an artisan is a rewarding career path that involves acquiring specialized skills and hands-on experience in trades such as plumbing, welding, carpentry, electrical work, or mechanical engineering. Artisans are highly skilled professionals who work in various industries, and their expertise is in high demand across sectors like construction, manufacturing, and maintenance.
Here’s a guide on how to train to become an artisan, including the steps, qualifications, and types of trades involved.
1. Understanding What an Artisan Is
An artisan is a skilled worker who creates or repairs things using manual skills and specialized knowledge. Artisans may work in several trades, including:
- Plumbing
- Electrical installation
- Carpentry
- Welding
- Boilermaking
- Bricklaying
- Motor mechanics
- Machining
Each of these fields requires technical knowledge and the ability to use tools and machinery.
2. Requirements to Become an Artisan
To train as an artisan, you typically need the following:
- A National Senior Certificate (Matric): A high school diploma is often the minimum educational requirement, especially for trades that require further technical or vocational training.
- Foundational Subjects: Good marks in subjects like Mathematics, Science, and Technical Drawing may improve your chances of being accepted into an artisan training program.
While formal education is a requirement, becoming an artisan is also about developing practical skills through on-the-job training.
3. Choosing an Artisan Trade
The first step is choosing the type of trade that interests you. Here are some examples of popular artisan trades:
- Plumber: Specializes in installing and repairing water and drainage systems.
- Electrician: Installs, maintains, and repairs electrical systems in homes, businesses, and factories.
- Welder: Joins metal parts using specialized welding techniques.
- Carpenter: Builds and repairs wooden structures and furniture.
- Fitter and Turner: Machinists who use engineering drawings to manufacture metal components.
- Boilermaker: Fabricates steel, installs boilers, and maintains pressure vessels.
4. Apprenticeship or Learnership Programs
The next step in artisan training is to enter an apprenticeship or learnership program. These programs combine practical on-the-job training with theoretical education. Here’s how they typically work:
- Apprenticeship: You’ll work under the supervision of a qualified artisan while gaining hands-on experience. Apprenticeships usually last between 2-4 years, depending on the trade. During this time, you’ll be taught how to use tools, follow safety regulations, and perform specific tasks related to your chosen trade.
- Learnership: Similar to an apprenticeship, but a learnership may be more focused on specific training modules and is often tied to an educational institution. It also includes theoretical training at a Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college.
Many industries offer apprenticeships, and they may be funded by employers or government programs. For example, in South Africa, the Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETA) play a key role in organizing and accrediting artisan training programs.
5. Formal Training at a Technical College
In addition to an apprenticeship or learnership, many aspiring artisans attend a Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college. These colleges offer courses that are directly related to the skills you need to become a qualified artisan. Courses may include:
- N1 – N3 Certificates: These are technical certificates in subjects like Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Construction. They provide the theoretical knowledge needed for your trade.
- Practical Courses: These courses teach you how to use tools, machinery, and equipment in your trade. For example, if you’re studying to become a carpenter, you’ll learn about woodworking techniques and safety protocols.
Some institutions offer artisan-specific training programs designed to fast-track the process of becoming a qualified artisan. These programs often focus on high-demand trades.
6. Certification and Trade Test
To become a fully qualified artisan, you must pass a Trade Test, which is a practical assessment of your skills. In South Africa, this test is regulated by the National Artisan Moderation Body (NAMB) or Trade and Occupation Certification bodies in other countries.
- Trade Test Requirements: Before you can take the test, you must complete your apprenticeship or learnership program and meet the required number of training hours.
- What the Test Involves: The test is practical and involves demonstrating the skills you’ve learned during your training. For example, a welder might be asked to join metal pieces using various welding techniques.
Passing the trade test qualifies you as an artisan and allows you to work independently or for an employer. In South Africa, passing the trade test will earn you a Red Seal Certificate, which is recognized nationally and internationally.
7. Career Prospects for Artisans
Once qualified, artisans have a range of career opportunities in different industries. You could work in:
- Construction: As a plumber, electrician, or carpenter on residential or commercial projects.
- Manufacturing: Operating machinery or overseeing production as a fitter and turner, welder, or boilermaker.
- Engineering: Artisans often work alongside engineers to maintain equipment, design parts, or carry out mechanical repairs.
- Self-Employment: Many artisans go on to start their own businesses, offering their services to clients in their local community.
Due to the high demand for skilled labor, artisans typically earn competitive wages, and there is always room for advancement in specialized areas of the trade.
8. Funding and Bursaries
There are various ways to fund your artisan training, including:
- Government Funding: Many countries offer funding to encourage people to pursue careers as artisans. In South Africa, for example, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) provides funding for students at TVET colleges.
- Learnerships and Apprenticeships: Many companies offer paid apprenticeships where you earn a salary while learning on the job.
- Bursaries: Many industries, especially those experiencing a shortage of skilled workers, offer bursaries for students interested in pursuing artisan trades.
9. The Importance of Continuous Learning
Even after qualifying, artisans are encouraged to continue learning and updating their skills. Many trades evolve with new technologies and tools, so ongoing education can keep you competitive in the job market. This could involve attending short courses, obtaining additional certifications, or specializing in a particular area of your trade.
Conclusion
Becoming an artisan is a valuable career path that offers job security, a wide range of opportunities, and the potential for self-employment. Whether you’re interested in building, fixing, or maintaining, there’s likely a trade that suits your skills and interests. With the right training, apprenticeships, and certifications, you can embark on a rewarding career as an artisan and contribute to industries essential to modern society.
Training to become an artisan