• Plumbers: These technicians keep the various drain and waste disposal systems functioning in residential and commercial buildings.
• Pipe Layers: Pipe layers are responsible for the installation of large underground pipes. They dig the necessary hole, prepare it for the pipe, lay the pipe, and cement or weld the pipe parts together.
• Pipefitters: The large pipe lines inside of buildings are the domain of these plumbing technicians. They repair and maintain the pipes used in electricity and gas lines, and other indoor systems.
• Steamfitters: These professionals do similar work to pipefitters, except that they work with pipe lines that carry pressurized gas and steam.
• Sprinkler Fitters: Sprinkler fitters design, install, and maintain the sprinkler systems that protect residential and commercial buildings from fires.

• Apprenticeship: 4-5 years
• Vocational Courses: 1-2 years

There are a few different ways to enter careers in plumbing technology. The most common path, and the one with the most thorough preparation, is through a formal apprenticeship. These training programs are commonly administrated by unions, such as the United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry of the United States and Canada, or through government agencies like the U.S. Department of Labor. Formal apprenticeships are comprised of classroom learning, as well as hands-on training under an experienced professional. Most apprenticeships require students to take 144 hours worth of related course work a year, in subjects like applied science and math, blueprints, and tool use. Over the course of 4-5 years, apprentices gradually learn all of the practical skills involved in plumbing, pipefitting, or whichever trade they are studying.

Outside of the apprenticeship program, individuals may enter this career after taking courses in plumbing technology at a vocational or trade school. These classes are similar to those offered in the apprenticeship program. Individuals may then be hired for assistant positions, where they can informally pick up the practical skills of the trade. (BLS)

The licensing requirements for those in the plumbing technologies vary by state. Most states require plumbers who offer their services directly to the public to have a local or state license. Applicants for this license are required to have anywhere from 2-5 years of plumbing experience and a passing score on an exam. Several states also require licenses for pipefitters and for professionals who work on gas lines. These licenses generally require a certain level of professional experience, as well as successful completion of an exam.

The average wages for plumbing technicians such as pipefitters, sprinkler fitters, and plumbers varies based on the type of construction work they do and their level of experience. However, this trade does offer relatively high salaries, versus most areas of construction. Apprentices usually begin by making about 50% of the normal pay rate, which is around $17,000-$23,000 a year. Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters who have completed their apprenticeship can expect offers of around $35,000-$47,000 a year. Those experienced in the field can earn $63,000 a year and higher. (BLS)

Pipe layers earn a lower salary than plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters. Apprentices earn around $17,000 a year; staff-level starting salaries range from $27,000-$35,000. Experienced pipe layers can earn $47,000 a year and up. (BLS)  

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts strong job growth for the plumbing technologies professions, during the 2008-2018 period. A number of large construction projects and new building codes will increase the employment of plumbers, pipefitters, steamfitters, pipe layers, and sprinkler fitters. The aging U.S. infrastructure of pipes will be updated during this time, and environmental codes aimed at decreasing water use will also call for repairs and maintenance to pipe and water lines.           

The job prospects for skilled plumbing professionals should be excellent during this period, as the demand for skilled trade workers has begun to outpace the number of people entering the field. Moreover, an older generation of plumbers, pipefitters, and other trade workers will be retiring in the coming years, opening up old jobs to new applicants. (BLS)

HVAC repair is another trade which requires considerable mechanical and electrical know-how. These skilled workers install and maintain heating, cooling, and ventilation systems in residential and commercial buildings. HVAC repairers often learn their trade through programs at community colleges or vocational schools.  

Skilled plumbers, pipefitters, or steamfitters could move into positions of construction management, after they have enough professional experience. These managers oversee large projects or contracts within a large project, to see that all the trades workers are performing their work properly and safely. Construction management classes can prepare plumbers with the administrative skills for conducting a large project.