Plumbing and Water Supply
Overview
Programs in plumbing and water supply prepare people to work as licensed plumbers or to maintain water and irrigation systems.Plumbing and water supply programs include topics such as:
- Installation of plumbing fixtures, pipes, and sprinkler systems
- Plumbing building codes and laws
- Reading blueprints
- Use of plumbing tools
Many plumbing and water supply programs include apprenticeship training. Apprentices complete a set number of classroom hours and receive training on the job from experienced workers.
Specialties
Students may be able to specialize in:
- Pipefitting
- Plumbing technology
- Sprinkler fitting
- Service mechanic work
Schools
Several career and technical schools as well as a few community colleges offer certificate and associate degree programs in plumbing and water supply. A certificate program usually takes a year of full-time study. An associate degree program usually takes two years to complete.
An apprenticeship program may require one to four additional years of on-the-job training.
See schools that offer this program.
Related Educational Programs
- Building Construction Technology
- Construction Engineering Technology
- Construction Trades
- Drafting and Design Technology
- Electrical and Power Transmission
- Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Technology
- Solar Energy Technology
- Welding Technology
Related Careers
Careers Directly Related to this Program of Study
Other Careers Related to this Program of Study
- Boilermakers
- Construction and Building Inspectors
- Heating and Cooling System Mechanics
- Hydroelectric Plant Technicians
- Septic Tank Servicers and Sewer Pipe Cleaners
- Welders and Solderers
Program Admission
You can prepare for this program of study by getting your high school diploma or GED.
Most apprenticeship programs require that you be at least 18.
Apprenticeship requirements vary by area and local committee. Most committees require that apprentices be at least 18. Some will accept younger apprentices who have permission from their parents or high school principal.
Some training programs require that applicants take aptitude tests and physical activity tests. Most require related work experience.
Below is a list of high school courses that will help prepare you for this program of study:
- Algebra
- Applied Math
- Blueprint Reading
- Chemistry
- Construction Trades Work Experience
- Drafting
- Exploration of Construction Careers
- Industrial Safety and First Aid
- Introduction to Business
- Plumbing
- Welding
Typical Course Work
Program Courses
This program typically includes courses in the following subjects:
- Applied Chemistry
- Applied Physics
- Blueprint Reading
- Drafting
- Math
- Plumbing Codes and Regulations
- Safety
- Use and Care of Tools
- Welding, Soldering, and Brazing
Plumbing apprentices may take these additional courses:
- Drainage
- Hot and Cold Water Supply
- Sewage
Pipefitting apprentices may take these additional courses:
- Absorption Systems
- Air Conditioning and Heating Systems
- Boiler Room Piping
- Motor Controls
- Refrigerant Controls
Each year, an apprentice completes about 2,000 hours of work in supervised, on-the-job training.
Things to Know
Most programs require that students buy their own tools.
Employers and unions prefer applicants who have done some work in the construction trades.
For information about apprenticeships and other training opportunities, call or visit local contractors, union offices, apprenticeship agencies, or your nearest employment service office.
Schools
King-Snohomish Area
Construction Industry Training Council (CITC)
- Plumbing
Seattle Area Pipe Trades Education Center
- Commercial Plumbing
- Marine Pipefitting
- Residential Plumber
- Steamfitter
Kitsap Area
West Sound Pipe Trades Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee
- Maintenance Plumber/Steamfitter
- Marine Pipefitting Apprenticeship (3 Year)
- Plumbing Apprenticeship (5 Year)
- Residential Plumbing Apprenticeship (3 Year)
- Steamfitter Apprenticeship (5 Year)
Spokane Area
Inland Empire Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry Apprenticeship Training Committee
- Maintenance Plumber/Steamfitter
- Plumber
- Residential Plumber
- Steamfitter
Vancouver Area
Charter College--Vancouver
- Applied Technology
West Side Area
Northwest Washington Pipe Trades Apprenticeship Committee
- Plumber/Pipefitter/HVAC Apprenticeship Program
- Residential Plumber
- Steamfitter
Yakima Area
Perry Technical Institute
- Plumbing Technician