Whether you are male or female, there are plenty of opportunities to make it in one of the specialist trades, such as becoming a plumber. Yes, you read correctly: women are plumbers, too. Are you good with your hands, have math skills, and do you have a methodical thought process? If so, why not try your hand at plumbing? Here’s how to get started.
Education and requirements… It’s possible to become a plumber as an apprentice with no educational background. But, to give yourself the best shot, you should have a minimum of a high school diploma or GED. You will also need to give yourself some time before you start earning good money. It can take somewhere between four and five years to qualify and get your license.
Training… You don’t have to have formal training in plumbing, and it is possible to learn under the guidance of a professional. However, training is only going to help. You should enroll in a community or technical school first. Courses tend to be a year long, and you will learn about water systems and drainage, among other things.
Finish your apprenticeship… If you are doing work experience for a large plumbing firm, they will often pay for you to go through an apprenticeship. This is an essential on-the-job experience that all plumbers have to go through, and they can last anywhere between four and five years. You’ll learn all the more advanced aspects of the job, including plumbing codes, fixtures, and tools. Do you know the difference between a flange spreader and a tap back nut? You might not at the moment, but by the end of your apprenticeship, you’ll know all that and more.
Get your license… The vast majority of states ask you to have a license before you can work alone. However, not every state does, and there are no national rules in place. In general, you will need a minimum of two years work experience to take your plumbing examination. But, most people tend to spend five years as an apprentice instead. As you can see, there is a quick route through if you can prove your knowledge and talent.
Spread your knowledge… Some licenses will allow you to work with water systems only, and you might need to get a license for working with gas pipes, too. This will improve the number of your job opportunities, and also give you more skills for a better business, should you wish to start one.
Get ahead with certification… There are many organizations out there that offer certification programs out there. You should investigate them all because they can help you become more employable, and give you a better base for your business. There are plenty of different certifications, from green plumbing techniques to inspection testing. Think about where you want to be in a few years time, and go for the certification that will help you get there.
Set up your own business… Finally, you can start your own business. The average plumber can earn around $50,000 per year, but if you want to maximize your earnings, then starting your own business is the only way to go. Try this guide to get you started.
Photo by Felix Faust
Mia Guerra
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