Have you wondered how to get into plumbing school? Well, you’re not alone. There are many like you who are asking the same question. The path to your plumbing career isn’t that difficult.
While this job isn’t as decorated as others, there are still many opportunities that are waiting for you when you consider it your option. It’s a popular career because it’s a service that people need regardless of the economic situation. No matter what time we’re living in, it’s always an essential service. That said, it’s no wonder why this career is becoming more and more competitive.
How can you get into plumbing school? Check out the steps below on how you can advance into the plumbing profession.
Get a high school diploma or GED
The first on the list is to finish your high school education or get a GED to move on further. These are the basic requirements to becoming a professional plumber. You first need a good foundation in math, science, and computers. Other courses in high school and special courses such as drafting and blueprint reading are also a plus. There is increased competition in the industry and your high school ACT score may become a huge advantage to get into a plumbing school or apprenticeship.
Plumbing Apprenticeship
An apprenticeship is when you get paid while you earn a craft. It’s a program that allows you to earn a living while on the training and building your knowledge on the field. There are also apprenticeships with structured courses in a classroom setting. These programs are often led by local plumbers union or schools. However, there are companies that offer apprenticeship programs as well.
Every program varies so there’s no exact time frame when an apprenticeship ends. It can take between two to five years, depending on the extent of the training given. While five years seem like a long time, you don’t have to worry since you’re paid while learning all the things concerning plumbing. If you can’t get an apprenticeship from a local plumber’s union, you can reach out to licensed master plumbers in your area and ask them to take you as their apprentice.
You have other choices aside from the apprenticeship. There are private schools that offer plumbing programs. Most of these plumbing schools offer flexible training schedules, this allows you to continue to work for your day job while you’re trying to expand your career into plumbing. Try to hit Google and look for plumber trade plumbing schools in your area.
Get your license
These days, states require plumbers to have licenses before they can start servicing home and other property owners. When you’ve completed your classroom and apprenticeship requirements, the next step is to apply for a license. You need to check with your local area because the requirements may differ from one city to another. Take the time to review your skills and other materials before you take the test. Once you’ve passed, you can then start your journey as a licensed plumber in your area.
This, however, isn’t the end of your career growth. The next ideal step is to become a master plumber. Don’t settle for less when you can become something more. Get more field experience and study more. Take a second exam and get more training and more certifications on several others skills related to plumbing such as inspection testing and others. In truth, you don’t need all the other certificates but it will give you more experience and edge compared to other plumbers in the city.
Earn more as master plumbers
A journeyman plumber is already a good job but you can grow more in your career if you aim to become a master plumber. Master plumbers have more opportunities available for them to earn more income. They can run their own businesses or they can have more autonomy in their work. Regardless if you are a journeyman plumber or a master plumber, at the end of the day, it’s about being able to deliver a high-quality job to ensure that your clients are happy and they’ll keep coming back to you for more services. It’s also one great way to get referrals as well.
Plan your plumbing career today and consider your options.