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The job of a plumber involves installing, maintaining, repairing, and inspecting plumbing systems from kitchen sinks and showers to septic tanks and water heaters.
Plumbing is a stable, in-demand job.
It’s a skilled trade and people always need plumbers, so the pay is competitive and there’s job security.
The average plumber in the United States earns $56,200 per year.
Plumbers must be good with their hands and work with a multitude of tools.
They must be able to read blueprints and have excellent knowledge of state regulations and codes.
Plumbers must be flexible and patient as they could be called any day of the week or time of day.
But that’s also a great opportunity to make emergency and overtime pay.
In Detroit, Michigan, the average salary for a plumber is $54,500 per year.
This is slightly below the national average.
However, many plumbers in the area make more depending on experience, license type, and company for whom they work.
Plumbers in Detroit also make an average of $6-$7,000 extra in overtime each year.
To work as a plumber in Detroit, one must be licensed.
The initial license is a Journeyman’s license.
This requires that one has a high school diploma, and serves about 2 years as an apprentice to a master’s plumber.
Most apprentices will take classes in conjunction with their apprenticeship.
Some unions offer programs, but there are also technical schools and community colleges that offer programs.
If you’re interested in becoming a plumber in Detroit, read on for a list of programs that help individuals become professional plumbers.
1 Detroit Training Institute Of Technology
About The School
The Detroit Training Institute is partnered with, and is certified by The Michigan Department of Energy, Labor, and Economic Growth to provide free training for students throughout the state.
They provide courses in construction, HVAC, and plumbing.
The school specializes in the use of green technology.
Students get hands-on experience while helping to build up the local community by working with churches, Habitat for Humanity, and other non-profits.
They offer small classes and flexible hours.
Course Offering
The plumbing program at Detroit Training Center offers a certificate of completion and job assistance.
Students will learn by a combination of lectures and hands-on training.
Topics include state code and regulations, soldering, installing copper, PVC, and PEX piping, installing and repairing toilets, sinks, faucets, hot water tanks, and more.
Those interested are asked to contact the school for tuition information.
Applicants must have a high school diploma or a GED.
Address: 14701 Harper Rd. Detroit, MI 48224
2 Henry Ford College
About The School
Located on the border of Detroit, Henry Gord College was founded in 1938 as a resource for the Detroit and Dearborn communities.
They offer trade career and workforce training, as well as over 150 academic programs like STEM and liberal arts.
They are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and offer full academic and personal support.
The school also offers a sports program and many clubs for students to participate in.
Course Offering
The college offers a fundamentals of plumbing program where students will be prepared to enter the workforce as plumbers’ assistants or apprentices.
Skills taught in the program include state code, pipe fitting, materials and components, plumbing design, and how to install fixtures, drains, and vents.
Students will also learn the basics of troubleshooting and repair of basic plumbing systems.
The cost of tuition is $2,600.
Students must have a high school diploma or its equivalent.
Address: 501 Evergreen Rd. Dearborn, MI 48128
3 A. Phillip Randolph Career And Technical School
About The School
Established in 1981, the schools’ mission is to help students develop skills in trade careers and workforce training.
Some trades taught include masonry, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and welding.
The program combines classroom theory and hands-on training in the school lab and within the community.
The school is very proud to have their students go into the Detroit community and help to rebuild areas in need.
Course Offering
This 1 year program will prepare students to work as plumbers or pipe fitter apprentices.
Skills taught include assembling, measuring, and constructing piping and plumbing systems.
In addition, students will learn state codes, blueprint reading, and how to repair, replace, and troubleshoot plumbing systems related to water, gas, and sewer.
Attendance is free of charge.
Address: 17101 Hubbell Ave. Detroit, MI 48235
Schools Summary Table
| Rank | School | |
|---|---|---|
|
#1 | Detroit Training Institute Of Technology |
|
#2 | Henry Ford College |
|
#3 | A. Phillip Randolph Career And Technical School |
Read the full guide: How to Become a Plumber
Plumbing License by City
Plumbing License by State