Construction & Skilled Trades
Locksmithing
Program Summary
Locksmiths install and repair locks and safes. Some install and repair electronic alarm and surveillance systems. They are often most appreciated when letting people into their homes or cars when they lock themselves out. Before opening doors, locksmiths assess whether the people who called them are really the property owners. To open locked doors, locksmiths insert lock picks into locks and move them around. If people have lost their keys, locksmiths may replace or re-key their current locks. Sometimes locksmiths are called because locks are jammed. Once they have opened these locks, locksmiths take them apart and repair or replace the worn wheels and springs. In addition to their other duties, locksmiths use key cutting machines to create duplicate keys.
Developments in technology have had a major impact on this occupation. Simple lock and key mechanisms are slowly being replaced by thumb print and retinal scanners, pin pads and electronic swipe cards. Keys are now being produced using computerized machines, which turn out keys at a much faster and more accurate rate. As a result, electronic and computer skills are becoming more important for locksmiths.
Opportunities to advance in this career are plentiful, and it is common for apprentices to move up the ranks in a company. Prospects include using a mobile workshop to do out of town work, training other staff, and becoming a branch or workshop manager.
Employment Trends
- Most locksmiths begin as trainees and learn their skills on the job from an experienced locksmith. Advancement is typically earned through more training.
- Employers generally prefer to hire applicants who ha ve a high school degree or GED with some professional job specific training.
- Good driving record and clean history is a must. Often employers require applicants to pass a background check and be bondable.
- The outlook for locksmiths is good and can be attributed to strong growth in the building industry and an overall increase in the need for security, such as alarm systems and safes.
- Anywhere you see a door; there is an opportunity for a locksmith!
Program Objectives
- Successful completion of each course earns a Certificate of Completion
- Coursework leading to award of a Continuing Education Certificate
Program Curriculum
PGCC’s comprehensive program includes both hands-on lab and lecture. It is one-year program is comprised of five courses. At the conclusion of the program, students will be familiar with impressioning lock-picking, closed circuit TV, safe lock installation and trouble shooting, and automotive lock opening.
| Crs # |
Course Name |
Hrs |
| OCC367 |
Locksmithing 101 |
42 |
| OCC368 |
Locksmithing 102 |
42 |
| KEY303 |
Locksmithing 201 |
42 |
| KEY304 |
Locksmithing 202 |
49 |
| KEY33 |
Automotive Lock Openings |
10 |
|
Program total |
185 |
For additional information, contact:
Adrienne Crowell, PGCC Program Coordinator
301-322-0894,
acrowell@pgcc.edu
Key Words