Gas Fitters Graduate From New Training Program

The first group of advanced natural gas fitters in Nova Scotia can now connect large business and industrial customers to the province's distribution system.
Seventeen gas fitters recently passed their qualifying examinations certifying them as Gas Fitter I, the highest level of gas fitters in the province. Their certification follows an intensive three-month training program. A partnership involving Sempra Atlantic Gas, Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) and the provincial government established the program to train gas fitters for work in the province's natural gas industry.

"Congratulations to the graduates for their hard work and commitment," said Jim Connors, vice-president legal and external affairs at Sempra Atlantic Gas. "Their skills will be in demand as Nova Scotia's local natural gas distribution system expands over the next number of years."

NSCC offers training at three levels for natural gas fitters - III, II and I. Gas Fitter IIIs work with Gas Fitter IIs, who connect homes and smaller businesses to natural gas and also install and service natural gas appliances and equipment. The first group of Gas Fitter IIs graduated last fall. Gas Fitter Is can service and install all natural gas equipment up to and including the largest systems operating on natural gas such as industrial boilers and large volume heating units.

"NSCC is committed to ensuring that Nova Scotians are ready for employment in this important industry," said Ray Ivany, President, Nova Scotia Community College. "By planning ahead in full partnership with Sempra Atlantic and the Nova Scotia government, we have made training options available to prepare Nova Scotians, including these graduates, for work in this emerging industry."

Sempra Atlantic Gas, a Nova Scotia company, has the franchise to develop, build and operate the province's natural gas distribution system to serve business and residential customers.

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