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A painter is also known as a decorator in many parts of the world. Painters are an integral part of construction industry. A painter prepares the surface and applies a range of finishes to it in response to the particular specifications of a job. A painter is well trained in working on a wide variety of surfaces, including metal, wood, plaster and stone, and incorporating numerous materials, such as paint, varnish and wallpaper. A painter can work for a large firm, contractors or can be self-employed. Painters also perform other tasks like washing the surface, removing dust, repairing rough spots and filling in cracks.
To become a painter in USA, one doesn’t really require a professional degree. However, those with apprenticeship programs are definitely favored by the employers. This is one job best learned through on-the-job training. Most painters work as helpers for experienced painters. Though, one can always opt for formal and informal training programs offered by several technical and vocation schools. With the help of formal training, one substantially increases his chances of getting a good job. One should complete at least a high school education or its equivalent to enter an apprenticeship program. The period of training can last from 2 to 4 years. Additionally, one has to complete a minimum of 144 hours of related classroom instruction each year. Topics taught to the students are instruction in color harmony, characteristics of different finishes, use and care of tools and equipment, blueprint reading, surface preparation, wood finishing, application techniques, safety standards and paint mixing and matching.
Those working under an experienced painter tend to gain a lot just by observing the senior professional. These trainees are supposed to carry supplies, do simple paintings, erect scaffolds, and prepare surfaces etc. They also learn about paint and painting equipment. As they learn further, they are taught about cost-estimating techniques, color coordination and decorating concepts. A painter must possess attributes like physical stamina, manual dexterity, and color sense. To further advance in this field, painters can join training and certifications offered by some organizations like National Association of Corrosion Engineers etc. Most of the painters have their own specializations. Painters are mostly self-employed or can start their own painting businesses.
In UK, no specific qualification is needed to become a painter. However, to gain valuable experience, one should use an apprenticeship program. Applicants would usually need GCSEs in Math, English and Technology as a basic entry point. Additionally, one can go for certifications like City & Guilds Level 1 Certificate in Basic Construction Skills and CITB Intermediate/Advanced Construction Award in Decorative Occupations etc which will enhance his chances of garnering a good job contract. There are some other in-depth courses like An SVQ in Construction: Painting and Decorating, An NVQ in Decorative Finishing and Industrial Painting that help in this industry. One should also strive to get a CSCS (Construction Skills Certificate Scheme) card.
There is an increasing need for painting services in construction industry and other structures. One can obtain good job opportunities with building contractors, hospitals, painting contractors, local authorities, shops offices and private houses. Demand for painters is expected to be steady in coming times. Those with appropriate job experience and qualifications are going to have better job opportunities.
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