Embarking on an apprenticeship is one of the most direct and impactful ways to acquire the skills and practical knowledge needed to succeed in a chosen trade. When it comes to plumbing, the opportunities go far beyond unclogging drains or repairing leaky faucets. Plumbers play integral roles in projects of all sizes—from residential upgrades to major commercial developments—where they design systems, install and maintain fixtures, and ensure the safe, efficient flow of water and other resources. Completing a plumber apprenticeship can open doors you may never have imagined, setting you on track for a long-term career marked by flexibility, stability, and growth.
Advance into a Second-Year State Program
After establishing a strong foundation during your first year of apprenticeship, one natural progression is to enroll in a recognized second-year state program, such as the NJPHCC apprenticeship. Within this advanced setting, you gain firsthand experience alongside industry veterans who share their insights, techniques, and best practices. This on-the-job training not only refines your technical abilities but also broadens your perspective, allowing you to understand the complex interplay between plumbing, construction, engineering, and customer service. By the end of your second year, you’ll have a valuable skill set that resonates strongly with future employers.
Boost Your Credentials with Certification
A completed apprenticeship—like the one offered by Eastwick College and the HoHoKus School of Trade—serves as a launching pad for further accreditation. Achieving OSHA certification, for instance, signals your dedication to following best practices in workplace safety. It’s a credential that enhances your professional image, enriches your résumé, and helps you stand out in a competitive field. Earning recognized certifications can smooth your entry into the workforce at the journeyman level and set the tone for steady career advancement.
Enter a Vibrant, High-Demand Workforce
Once you’ve honed your craft through comprehensive training and secured key credentials, you’ll find that the plumbing industry presents a wide range of employment options. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, plumbers in the New York and New Jersey regions can average an impressive salary of around $72,000. Demand for skilled plumbers remains high across various sectors—residential construction companies, commercial builders, specialized plumbing firms, and even facilities management within large corporations are all on the lookout for reliable professionals. Your specialized skill set places you among the most sought-after tradespeople, offering you the freedom to choose where and how you want to practice.
Embrace a Future of Growth, Stability, and Opportunity
A plumber’s apprenticeship is more than just learning to repair, install, and maintain fixtures. It’s an investment in a sustainable career path with remarkable earning potential, job security, and personal satisfaction. Plumbers contribute to essential infrastructure, help shape communities, and ensure that homes and businesses run smoothly. By leaping into this rewarding field, you set yourself on a trajectory toward continual growth—both professionally and financially.
There’s no limit to what you can achieve. From embarking on specialized plumbing projects and gaining advanced certifications to running your own contracting business someday, the journey begins with your first year as an apprentice and builds from there. Embrace the challenges and possibilities that await you, and let your newfound skills pave the way to a fulfilling, prosperous career in plumbing.
Eastwick College and the HoHoKus School of Trade offer a diploma for our Plumbing Apprenticeship Program in Paterson, NJ. Visit our website to learn more, or contact us at 201-379-1884 today!