Plumbing is more than fixing clogged drains or repairing frozen pipes. Within the field of plumbing, there are several specializations. You may choose to become a pipelayer, pipefitter, steamfitter, or sprinkerfitter. These specialists work on projects ranging from water treatment plants to climate control systems. Each of these areas requires mastery of special tools and technical expertise.
Most plumbers and plumbing specialists complete some type of formal apprenticeship. Training programs and degrees are generally offered by local trade associations and unions. Most of these plumbing training programs involve about six months of classroom study, followed by three to four years of supervised apprenticeship. During the formal study section of the program, you will learn how to read specifications, as well as drafting, safety procedures, math, sketching, and building codes.
This period will be followed by you apprenticeship which will allow you to practice your skills with professionals in the field. While there is not a national certification program for plumbers, most state and local governments require plumbers to be certified or licensed.
Plumbing is a physically demanding job and requires good health. You must also be good at working with your hands, reading specifications and drafts, and have good math skills. Despite the ups and downs of construction jobs, job opportunities for plumbers continue to be good. Demand is high for workers in this area, and as plumbing codes become increasingly strict, plumbers are needed to remodel and refit older systems as well as installing new systems.
