Emily Griffith Technical College has partnered with a number of different unions and trade organizations to offer apprenticeship programs. Pipefitter apprenticeship programs typically last four to five years. In an apprenticeship program like pipefitting, you’ll gain experience through on-the-job training and coursework provided by apprenticeship partners.  What is a Pipefitter? Pipefitters install, assemble, fabricate, maintain and repair mechanical piping systems including for industrial and commercial systems, as well as heating and cooling systems.