How to Become a Glazier

Glaziers select, cut and install glass in buildings such as homes, offices and skyscrapers. Their skills are a vital part of the construction industry, which is creating and renovating $1.4 trillion worth of structures each year. They are also responsible for repairing existing glass fixtures. These skilled crafts workers must be able to read blueprints in order to determine the size, shape and placement of each piece of glass for each building project. They must also know the type and size of scaffolding they need to stand on in order to install or remove the glass.

The best way to become a glazier is to complete an apprenticeship program, which typically takes about four years. This combination of 144 hours of technical education and 2,000 hours of paid on-the-job training will teach you the skills necessary to enter this trade. You can find programs at colleges, vocational schools or specialist fenestration companies.

Once you have finished the program, you can apply to join a glazing union. These organizations are the trades councils that represent glaziers in your region and can help you locate a job. You can also apply directly to a construction or specialty glazier company and start out as an assistant to a journeyman.

When you get your foot in the door, you can work your way up through the ranks and eventually become a lead glazier yourself. This is a great career for someone who wants to be their own boss and work for themselves, but who also has a strong commitment to the craft of glazing.

Glaziers need a variety of skills in order to perform their duties, but the most important one is good hand-eye coordination. This is because glaziers must be able to measure to within a fraction of an inch, and they will often have to cut and polish glass while standing on ladders or scaffolding. Glaziers must also be comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions, and they must be able to travel to each client site for their installations.

Many glaziers are starting to move away from traditional fabrication methods and moving toward in-house production. This trend is likely due to continued labor and supply chain challenges, as well as a desire to improve quality control and delivery times. While respondents to a recent Glass Magazine survey reported a positive business outlook, inflation and interest rates are still notable challenges for 2023.

This article was originally published in the July print & digital edition of Glass Magazine. To learn more about this and other issues impacting the glass industry, subscribe today. Glass Magazine is produced by the National Glass Association.

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