The scientific glass blower manufactures glass instruments and apparatus. These are used both in laboratories and in fieldwork by scientists and engineers in their research, development and tutorial duties. Scientific glass blowers also work in industry, particularly in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries.
Scientific glass blowers are often required to assist in the design of prototype equipment and thus play a major role in the success or failure of a project. The work entails the shaping and forming of a variety of types and shapes of glass according to the specifications given. The glass can be machined, ground, drilled, blown, bent, fused (welded), twisted, drawn and parted.
Satisfying Aspects
- creating needed items
- seeing the finished product
- working with your hands
Demanding aspects
- concentration needed for long periods, due to potential dangers
- possible eyestrain and physical exhaustion
Requirements
A scientific glass blower should:
- be at least 16 years old;
- enjoy creating things with his hands;
- be able to visualise objects in three dimensions;
- be observant and patient;
- enjoy working with delicate materials;
- be well-disciplined in the use of safety equipment;
- be able to work independently;
- have artistic inclination.
School Subjects
Grade 10 Certificate.
Compulsory Subjects: None
Recommended Subjects: Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Mechanical Technology
Training
There are three ways to qualify as a registered artisan:
1. An apprenticeship is a 4-year contract between company and apprentice, comprising a 12-week theoretical training, which includes 4 subjects at national exam level.
2. A learnership is a structured learning programme that leads to a qualification in a certain field. The learnership programme includes a theoretical and a practical component. It usually takes about a year to complete. The training takes place on-site (on the premises of the organisation). This has the advantage that the learner gets on-the-job experience whilst training.
3. FET colleges offer theoretical training to prospective artisans via the new National Certificate Vocational (NCV). During this 3-year programme (levels 2 to 4), learners complete a school-leaving certificate (this NCV) similar to the
new National Senior Certificate (NSC) in schools. They are also exposed to a practical workshop component.
All learners are required to complete a practical internship under the supervision of an experienced artisan. As an alternative to doing the full qualification, a learner can apply to do a skills programme at a FET College. Skills programmes are short practical hands-on courses.
For more information about qualifications and skills programmes, contact your nearest FET College. FET Colleges are accredited and funded by a SETA (Sector Education and Training Authority) such as MERSETA or CHIETA. They also receive bursary funding through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) for the NCV programme.
Learners must all receive training in occupational safety and first aid, fire-fighting and preventative security measures. Learners study everything about the installation, maintenance and repair of all electrical equipment. They must also become familiar with municipal legislation relevant to electricity supply and consumption.
Employer
- Research institutions such as the CSIR
- Universities
- NECSA
- Sasol
- Pharmaceutical and chemical industries
- Self-employment, doing freelance work