The Highest Qualification in Plumbing
Highest Qualification in Plumbing
A plumber is a skilled tradesperson who builds and repairs the water, waste disposal, and gas pipes in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. The plumbing profession is a trade that requires specialized knowledge and training to perform tasks that aren’t always simple, like working under pressure and cutting through hard materials. Many plumbers obtain their education from a trade school or apprenticeship, but the higher-level positions such as master plumber require additional training and a license.
A person who wants to enter the field of plumbing must first earn a high school diploma or equivalent and complete a vocational program to learn the practical and theoretical skills needed for the job. There are a variety of programs available, including those offered by community colleges and trade schools. Many apprentices also take technical classes that supplement their on-the-job experience. These courses teach them how to read blueprints, how to work safely and efficiently, and other important aspects of the trade.
After graduating from a vocational school or completing a plumbing program, aspiring plumbers must find a licensed journeyperson plumber to serve as their mentor while they gain on-the-job experience. An apprenticeship typically lasts four to five years and combines paid work with technical training. On average, apprentice plumbers make $31k a year and may be able to take on independent projects once they have reached journeyperson status.
The Highest Qualification in Plumbing
Those who want to become master plumbers must obtain their state contractors’ license. The requirements for this can vary by state, but in most cases, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam and have at least two years of journeyperson experience. Some states allow students to substitute up to 1,000 hours of education for the required experience.
Once a plumber has obtained their master plumber’s license, they can perform most plumbing jobs and hire other plumbers to help them. This is the highest level of certification in the field, and those who reach this point have the skills and experience to run their own plumbing businesses. They can pull permits, oversee large-scale plumbing projects, and manage the hiring of plumbers and other staff members.
The plumbing industry is a vital one that helps maintain clean drinking water, sanitary sewers, and safe waste transfer systems. It’s a popular career choice for both men and women, and people from all walks of life can find satisfaction in this demanding trade. However, as with any decision involving money and education, it’s wise to understand the different levels of a plumbing career before making a commitment.
As the popularity of trade schools continues to rise, more and more young adults are turning to this route to earn their degrees rather than pursuing traditional undergraduate programs. According to Jon Marcus, Hechinger Report editor and writer, this trend is a positive sign for the future of higher education, but it’s important to keep in mind the cost and benefits of a trade school degree before choosing one. NEIT offers a number of programs to help you begin or advance in your plumbing career.
