Millwrights get things running and fix anything that’s broken. During the commissioning of a plant or compressor station, for instance, starting up compressors may be a big part of the job. They might “slow-roll” the compressors (start out at 10 to 15 per cent of the regular speed), listening for “knocks” and then conduct vibration analyses and other diagnostic activities to ensure the equipment is starting up properly. If things don’t sound or look right, they’ll use their experience and investigative skills to find out the root cause of a problem.

Millwrights are a whiz at mechanics and mathematics and thrive on the challenge of troubleshooting. They’re able to follow procedures closely when adjusting machinery or installing new equipment but are also adaptable to change. They also bring good eye hand coordination, strength, agility and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.