A plumber apprenticeship is your first step to beginning a career in plumbing, pipefitting, or steamfitting. Since this job requires hands-on experience in order to do it well, four to five years of apprenticeship experience is required in order to begin your career. Fortunately, plumber apprentices are protected by unions, which guarantee a fair wage during these educational years. Many vocational schools offer apprenticeship diploma programs for an enhanced educational experience. At Eastwick College, the nine-month day-time diploma program in Paterson, New Jersey is equivalent to a one-year-on-the-job apprenticeship.
What does a plumber apprenticeship entail?
Throughout a plumber apprenticeship, students gain hands-on experience with the guidance of a plumber who has years of experience. Apprentices learn how to install and repair water supply piping, waste and vent piping, and fuel-fired heating systems in residential and light commercial buildings. Upon completion of a plumber apprenticeship, you’ll have the diverse skill set to meet the requirements for a career in plumbing, pipefitting, or steamfitting.
Job outlook in the field of Plumbing
According to the Department of Labor, the average salary for a plumber in the state of New Jersey is $69,360. With more experience, plumbers would expect to see their wages increase. The job prospects are great in this field, with growth expected around 16% between 2016 and 2026. Over the next decade, thousands of plumbers are expected to retire, which means skilled plumbers will be in high demand. Although diploma programs like the one offered at Eastwick College aim to properly prepare students, employment upon graduation cannot be guaranteed.
Learn more about the plumber apprenticeship at Eastwick College.