What is a Plumber?
A plumber is a skilled craftsperson that installs and repairs pipe systems that carry water, waste drainage, natural and medical gas in buildings. They join pipes and install fixtures like bathtubs, toilets, dishwashers, and water heaters. Often they design these systems themselves or they may work from blueprints and drawings.
Plumbers play a key role in keeping residents safe every day by installing, repairing and servicing many different kinds of systems that come into contacts with human beings, from potable drinking water to natural gas. If these systems do not meet National, State and Local Codes, they could cause sickness, disabilities and even death.
How to Prepare for the Trade
- Knowledge of general math – algebra, geometry, trigonometry
- Knowledge of general science – chemistry and physics
- Drafting and blueprint reading
- Good science and English skills
- Welding
Apprenticeship training for a plumber includes everything from basic shop and electricity to plumbing codes and water supplies & backflow. The five-year training program through the Piping Industry allows apprentices to obtain 8,500 hours of on-the-job training under the direction of a professional plumber while earning a competitive wage.
Click here to learn more about the Piping Industry apprenticeship program and to take the first step towards an exciting career.