Plumbing apprentice area

For years now there has been a serious shortage in qualified tradesmen and the trend is likely to continue. What does that mean to you? It means that it is an excellent time to enter into the plumbing apprenticeship program. With the shortage of plumbers a skilled plumber who does quality work can often make $50 or more an hour.

About plumbing apprenticeship

Apprenticeship programs vary from place to place but they all have some common traits; such as, a mix of schooling and practical work experience lasting usually 4 years. Apprentices must be employed in the plumbing field under the supervision of a licensed plumber and may be required to return to school for further training on a yearly basis. Here is an example of a 4 year program from Okanagan college.  Keep in mind that each program will be different.

Level 1

Mathematics
Science
Safety
Tools
Pipes, Valves and Fittings
Rigging
Cutting, Soldering and Brazing
Drafting and Blueprint Reading

Level 2

Hot Water Heating Systems
Piping Drawings and Specifications
Rough-in and Finishing
Drainage and Venting Systems
Compressed Air and Medical Gas
Leveling Instruments and Tools

Level 3

Drainage and Venting Systems
Potable Water Systems
Rural Water Systems
Piping Drawings and Specifications
Gasfitting

Level 4

Install and Light Gas Appliances
Hot Water Heating Systems
Gasfitting
Electrical CCTS and Gas Controls
Rural Sewage
Drainage and Venting Systems

Need help preparing for the plumbing exam? Here's some practice questions.