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The Glazier

The Glazier

Glaziers are skilled tradespersons that work with all types of glass and glass products. This could include anything from decorative stained glass, architectural windows, fire rated doors, to the window systems that line the exterior of office towers.

Glaziers need to be proficient on the tools, able to effectively read plans and other drawings, have a strong working knowledge of common methods and specific techniques for glazing windows, doors and other elements along with having a reasonable level of physical fitness.

Glaziers in Australia: key statistics

Employed

8,200

Median age

43

Female share

3%

What a glazier does

Determines the type and dimensions of glass required.

Measures and marks glass for cutting.

Examines glass and marks defective areas.

Cuts along patterns and templates.

Breaks off sheets and excess glass with notched tools and glass pliers.

Installs glass and mirrors in windows, skylights, display cases, interior walls and ceilings.

Lays glass over patterns on padded tables and in jigs.

Smooths rough edges using belt sanders and smoothing wheels.

Coats, cuts, etches, trims and treats glass to achieve special effects.

How to get qualified

 

A glazier requires a detailed knowledge of different types of glass, their various properties and applications, and the Australian standards that apply. Glaziers must have the practical skills to work with and handle glass safely, including measuring, cutting and assembling glass into final products such as windows, doors, fences and balustrades. They may also install these products in buildings.

It may be possible to start working for a glazier without prior formal training; however qualifications are valued by employers and are likely to be important for career progression. Regulations in some states stipulate that certain types of glazing work can only be undertaken by a licenced glazier, and a trade qualification is required to obtain a licence.

A Certificate III in Glass and Glazing undertaken as an apprenticeship is a common starting point. The Certificate IV in Glass and Glazing is designed to build upon the Certificate III level qualification and facilitate career progression in the glazing industry.

Meet the glazier: Emily Hessell
Emily Hessell, Glazier – Jason Windows

Emily Hessell is a subcontractor at Jason Windows. She specialises in residential buildings that require site, measure and fit (SMF) for the installation of windows. Emily installs commercial and residential aluminium windows into houses. This includes both new builds and renovations.

Emily had an interesting path into the industry. ‘I worked as a draftsperson within the mining industry before I wanted to get out of the office and onto the tools,’ Emily says. ‘The building industry was perfect as there is so much diversity in the roles and the ability to move through a career path.’ 

‘I love the glazing industry as it gives me such a massive variety of work – the day-to-day is always different,’ she explains. ‘It can involve installing large windows that span over two floors, sliding doors that are 10 metres wide or completely changing a house by removing and replacing windows in a renovation,’ she adds. 

Emily’s advice to young women considering a career in the trades? ‘Just give it a go. It’s not always going to be easy, but the challenges will make you stronger.’ 

Awards:

NAWIC - Tradeswoman of the Year 2020 
Jason Windows - Apprentice of the Year 2017 
HIA - Final Year Glass and Glazing Apprentice 2017 
GWAWA - Rising Star 2016

Emily's top 5 tips

Master the basics.

It doesn’t matter what the trade is. A deep understanding of the basics will always set you up for success.

Don’t let fear hold you back.

It’s not always going to be easy and sometimes you need to fail to learn and grow further.

Seek out mentors.

Whether it is other women within the industry or a male mentor, they can guide you through challenges and give advice on how to push through and succeed.

Approach each task with a willingness to learn.

After more than 10 years in the industry, I'm still learning things every day.

Always be willing to advocate for yourself.

Say if something doesn’t feel right or if you need support.
HIA | MiTek

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