How To Become A Plumber

According to studies, the plumbing industry is expected to project an increase in career and job opportunities for the coming years. As we all know, plumbers are responsible for fixing and installation of pipe systems for water and gas in residential and industrial infrastructures. If you are considering yourself to enter this profession, keep reading this article and be informed on the ways about how to become a plumber.

1  It is important that you know the essentials and basics of your chosen profession. You must have both passion and interest in order to succeed. Aside from this, your physical strength is also necessary since this could be a very demanding job requiring you to work in unpredictable weather and time of the day. You must have a good stamina and build in order to perform what is expected. On top of it all, you would also be exposed to different working environment including septic tanks and drainages.

2  You must be at least 18 years old.

3  Earn a high school diploma or general education diploma (GED). While you are still in this level, learn and focus as much as you could on courses that would be useful for your future career such as: English, Math and Science. You may also set an appointment with your guidance counselor for a consultation about the schools and colleges that offer trainings and courses in plumbing.

4  Enroll in a technical or vocational school. Since most plumbers nowadays no longer undergo formal trainings, this would be an edge once you apply for certain companies. Taking up courses in plumbing system would usually take 2 years. However, this would certainly improve your skills since you would be given a chance to perform both hands on and practical course works. You can choose to undergo fast track courses, online trainings or the actual college setting. Fast track courses are usually done as a home study, which you can complete within 6 months. On the other hand, online trainings are conducted and done at your own pace and speed. But being in college programs are more preferred since this would provide job opportunities and placement after graduation. During this program, you will tackle a lot of topics essential to plumbing such as: water supply, piping, drainage system, valves and fitting. After which, you would be given a certificate upon completion, which you can use for employment purposes.

5  Undergo Apprenticeship. This is one of the most important requirements to become a certified and professional plumber. Certain programs are offered by contractors, companies and labor unions. By average, an apprenticeship program usually lasts for four years. No worries since you would be under the supervision of a certified and expert plumber during the duration of being an apprentice. You would definitely learn a lot of things and skills such as the local plumbing codes, types and grading of pipes, using the necessary tools, choosing the right materials, water pipes maintenance, installation and repair of plumbing fixtures and different plumbing procedures. You must be able to complete 144 hours of classroom discussion and instructions while having your on the job training. The good news is that you would be paid for your hard work and performance. Usually, this would cost half the salary of your master plumber and this would increase once you gain more skills and experience.

6  Become a licensed plumber. Below are two common requirements for licensure. However, this may vary for each state:

• 2 to 5 years of experience (which could include your apprenticeship)
• Pass the licensure exam (focused on local codes, plumbing essentials, knowledge on blueprint and diagram reading, and plumbing trades. If you fail, you may retake the exam after 6 months or so.)

Once you gain your license would be your opportunity to work independently. You may now start your own business or seek employment.

7  Look for potential employers. Although many plumbers prefer to be self-employed, there are also job opportunities waiting in contractors, construction companies, labor unions, plumbing firms and the local government. Those who are in the plumbing business hire professional plumbers in a contract basis, so read the contract carefully and make sure you are provided with benefits and opportunities for career growth.

8  Earn additional certification and choose a specialization. Because of the worsening problem of water scarcity and energy conservation, certain organizations such as: the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCCA) and greenplumbers USA (http://www.greenplumbersusa.com/)  are offering training programs and certifications on water and energy efficiency technologies which could be beneficial for plumbers in terms of job opportunities and information dissemination. Remember that your quest for knowledge is unending, so you must not stop learning. If possible, attend seminars and lectures that could be useful for your craft.

A plumber’s average annual salary is $40,000 but this could be dependent on several factors such as: educational attainment, licensure, experience and type of employer. Just like most professions, opportunities in the plumbing industry are endless. Therefore, you must strive to be on top and be the best. Possessing the willingness to learn and improve your skills is important. Who knows? An aspiring plumber like you might become the next town inspector or state investigator once you are granted the promotion.

Related posts:

1. How Long Does It Take To Become A Plumber?
2. What Are The Requirements To Be A Plumber?
3. What Does A Plumber Do?
4. How Much Does A Plumber Make?