If a young high school graduate approached you for career advice, would you recommend:
“Compare plumbing to joining Harvard University for a degree-becoming a plumber, for an ordinary person would probably be a great deal.”
If you are reading this post, you are interested in becoming a professional plumber and whether it is a great career decision. A recent article in the Chicago Tribune magazine cited an increasing shortage of skilled tradesmen such as electricians, carpenters, and plumbers. More experienced and older tradespeople are retiring. Typically younger people are coming to fill the vacancies. Besides, the demand for plumbing services is increasing.
Is It Worth Becoming A Plumber?
So does becoming a professional plumber worth the hype? Here are some reasons you need to consider pursuing a plumbing career:
- According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, entry-level plumbers earn about $56,500 annually. Which by far exceeds the salary of an average college graduate. This proves that plumbing has great earning potential compared to typical office jobs.
- Inexpensive education: You can train as a plumber online or at a community college or a vocational school—no need to accumulate huge student loan debt. Besides, apprenticeship programs allow you to learn and earn simultaneously.
- Career progression opportunities: You can work your way up to become a master plumber and start your own plumbing company, project manager, or superintendent.
- Job security: plumbers will always be in high demand, regardless of the state of the economy.
- Job Satisfaction: There is no more incredible feeling than having your efforts appreciated and acknowledged.
Will Plumbers Be In High Demand In The Future?
Employment opportunities for pipefitters, steamfitters, and plumbers are projected to grow by 16% between 2021 and 2029, which is higher than for all occupations. Plumbers are expected to be in high demand in the coming years.
A shortage of licensed plumbers is expected to create new employment opportunities, particularly because of aging existing buildings and the construction of new ones. Bathroom and kitchen renovation, in particular, should make a massive demand in the plumbing field. Plumbers with welding experience will enjoy better job prospects in the future. Of course, plumbing fixtures in commercial and residential properties will continue to produce maintenance and repair jobs for plumbers.
The construction of new wastewater plants and septic tanks will also create job opportunities for plumbers. More jobs are predicted with pipefitters and plumbing contractors in the future, and many job openings will pop up following the imminent retirement of older plumbers.
What Are The Major Misconceptions That Prevent People From Pursuing A Plumbing Career?
Various misconceptions prevent young people from venturing into the plumbing career. But the reality is that working as a plumber means learning a crucial skill that can offer less student loan debt, job security, lucrative pay, and overall improvement in the quality of life. Most of the major misconceptions include plumbing doesn’t pay, plumbers are always dirty, and it is a job for less educated people. Avoid such myths if you are interested in getting into the plumbing career.
Read also on how to make 6-figures in plumbing.
What Are The Future Plumbing Opportunities Like In The US?
Skilled trade jobs like electrical installation or plumbing are currently in high demand. And if the statistics by the BLS are anything to go by, the demand for such jobs is expected to grow by 16% in the coming years. With the aging of existing buildings and the construction of new ones, there is an increased need for qualified licensed plumbing contractors.
Now it’s the right time to begin planning for a rewarding career and a promising future.
If you want to pursue a plumbing career at home, consider registering with the Alpha Tradesmen Academy’s online plumbing course.
Become A Licensed Plumber Today
Becoming a qualified plumber in the US is a two-pronged process incorporating the study and practical training. Traditionally, a prospective student enrolled in a four-year apprentice program to obtain technical education and complete the on-the-job training hours under a plumber. Prospective candidates who have completed their apprenticeship are known as journeymen plumbers. Once you have gained enough experience as a journeyman plumber, you can pursue master-level plumbing status. If you are interested in getting into a plumbing career but don’t know where to start, consider registering for our online plumbing course today.