The majority of people who want to be plumbers start with a plumber apprenticeship. A plumber apprenticeship is a combination of structured instruction and on-the-job training under the supervision of a licensed plumber with extensive experience. It entails a comprehensive education that covers all aspects of plumbing service, including required skills, expectations, and the day-to-day tasks of a plumber.
Apprentices are usually hired for a set period of time by contractors. The candidate is supervised and guided by an experienced master plumber or journeyman plumber. An aspiring plumber can expect to be paid during their apprenticeship, as well as receive benefits in some cases. The student will receive a Journeyman Plumber’s license after successfully completing both the apprenticeship and the state licensing exam.
A candidate must be at least 18 years old to begin a plumber apprenticeship. He or she must have a high school diploma or its equivalent, and may be required to pass an aptitude test before being considered for an apprenticeship. A potential plumber should also expect to devote four to five years to their studies, which will include over 100 hours of classroom instruction as well as hands-on plumbing experience.
A plumber apprenticeship teaches the fundamental skills required of a plumber. Installation of various appliances, plumbing fixtures, waste systems, natural gas piping, water treatment equipment, and supply systems are among these abilities. All of this equipment is also repaired, tested, and maintained by plumbers.
A plumber apprentice may be taught science, technology, and other subjects as part of his or her education. He or she might be able to decipher blueprints. Students will learn various types of math and chemistry, as well as the nuts and bolts of plumbing, including local codes and regulations. Applied physics, drafting, and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) safety training are examples of other subjects.
Apprentice plumbers will also be taught how to properly care for and use a variety of plumbing tools and materials. Scaffolding, ladders, and other potential safety hazards will be highlighted as well as safety techniques. The student may earn up to 30 hours of college credit after completing the work.
A journeyman plumber can take an exam to become a master plumber after completing an additional 100 hours of advanced plumbing training. This position comes with a lot more perks than a journeyman job, including a higher pay. After achieving master plumber status, a plumber can start his or her own plumbing business.