Plumbing Technology provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become plumbing apprentices. Students learn plumbing theory in the classroom and get hands-on experience in the lab. Students gain proficiency in construction safety, measuring, cutting, joining methods of various materials, and regulations governing plumbing and gas fitting design and installations. They learn to repair and service plumbing and fuel gas systems including fixtures, valves, controls, piping, and related apparatus. All aspects of trade and work readiness skills are emphasized. Completion of all courses allows students to seek entry-level employment as an apprentice plumber.
What can you do with your Plumbing Technology career training?
Plumbers not only install the sink in your kitchen, but they also lay the pipes that bring water to your house. There are five generally identified trades:
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Pipelayers install clay, concrete, and metal pipes for drains, sewers, and mains.
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Plumbers install water and waste piping and fixtures.
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Pipefitters install high- and low-pressure piping used in manufacturing, heating and cooling, and power generation.
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Steamfitters install high-pressure piping systems.
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Sprinkler fitters install automatic fire-prevention systems.
Training you need:
Massachusetts State licensing requires a plumbing apprenticeship of 5 years under the supervision of a master plumber. Apprentices must complete 550 hours of classroom training and work full-time for 5 years to be eligible to take a journeyman plumber's test. Quincy High School students earn 330 theory hours and 9 months of hands-on experience toward apprenticeship requirements.
Where you can work:
Fifty-five percent of plumbers work for plumbing or heating and air conditioning contractors, 12% are self-employed, and about 33% work in a variety of industries.
What you can earn:
Average earnings are $15.62-$35 per hour. Apprentices earn about $10-$14 per hour to start. Wages rise as apprentices gain experience and develop competencies.
Career outlook:
Employment for all plumbing trades will increase by about 10% over the next 10 years. Workers with welding experience will find particularly good opportunities.
Certifications or Licenses You May Earn While in High School:
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Plumbing Technology Program Certificate
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10-hour OSHA Construction Safety Training
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Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing Installer Certification
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Hours toward state license
What equipment/software will you learn to use:
Students learn to operate and use a variety of power and hand tools. Also taught are basic business management skills.
What kind of job can you get with this training?
Licensed plumbing apprentice, sales assistant at plumbing supply wholesale outlet, and plumbing warehouse worker.
With additional training/education, what jobs are available?
Licensed journeyman plumber, licensed master plumber, project foreman, licensed journeyman sprinkler-fitter, licensed pipe-fitter, plumbing inspector, instructor, plumbing contractor, professional engineer, wastewater engineer, construction safety officer, and construction manager.
What you should know...
Plumbing continues to be a growing, demanding career with great opportunities in the future. Green technologies will provide additional career options including engineering, sales, installation, and service of renewable/sustainable technology. Plumbers who continue their education and training will have the greatest career options.
Recommended Course of Study
Grade 9
English
Foreign Language
Mathematics
Science
Social Studies
Physical Education
Pathways
1 Elective Course
Grade 10
English
Foreign Language
Mathematics
Science
Social Studies
Physical Education
Plumbing Technology 1
Grade 11
English
Mathematics
Science
Social Studies
Physical Education
Plumbing Technology 2
Grade 12
English
Social Studies
Physical Education
Plumbing Technology 3
2 Elective Courses