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The need for trained professionals in the plumbing industry has grown by 21% in the past 10 years.
It’s expected to grow by another 2% by 2024.
Couple this job security with a good salary (the national average per hour is $31.00 per hour), and plumbing is an attractive career.
However, it does take special qualities to be a good plumber.
You must be good with your hands and tools, be able to read blueprints, how to troubleshoot and diagnose broken appliances, pipes, water heaters, and more.
Plumbers must also have strong stomachs and good people skills.
They must be able to crawl through tight, dark places and withstand extreme weather.
In Las Vegas, the average salary is $52,000 per year.
However, many plumbers in the area can make up to 79,000 per year.
Plumbers can be self-employed, work for contractors, organizations like hospitals, and many other places.
In order to become a plumber in Las Vegas, Nevada, one must complete a 5 year apprenticeship.
After the first 2 years, the exam to become a journeyman plumber can be taken.
This will allow you to take on more responsibilities and make more money.
You will have to work another 3 years to become a fully licensed master plumber.
It’s a long process, but plumbing is not just a convenience, but a necessity related to health and safety, so it’s vital that plumbers know what they are doing.
Most people work through plumbing unions or programs that are partnered with unions, to gain their education.
However, many people do take introductory courses or complete full college programs in conjunction with their apprenticeship.
Read on if you’re looking for some programs that can help you on your way to becoming a plumber.
1 Pipe Trades - UA525 JATC
About The Program
This plumbers union was formed over 100 years ago and they have been training apprentices and journeymen ever since.
They are certified testing facility and also offer associate degrees.
Apprentices spend most of their time working in the field with master plumbers, but also attend classes taught by licensed instructors.
To apply for an apprenticeship, applicants must have a high school diploma, a valid driver’s license, and pass regular drug screenings.
Course Offering
Apprentices will learn from a combination of hands-on training and classroom theory.
Skills taught include state codes and regulations, tools and materials, installation, and repair of plumbing systems, faucets and fixtures, sewage systems, water heaters, and appliances.
Students will work for 8,000 hours (approximately 2 years) as a paid apprentice and then take the exam to become a licensed journeyman.
Address: 750 Leigon Way Las Vegas, NE 89110
2 National Training Institute
About The School
Founded in 2003, National Training Institute is a private vocational school with csmouses throughout the United States.
The school offers programs in HVAC, electrical, welding , and plumbing.
They have day, evening, and weekend classes available.
The Las Vegas campus has over 8,000 square feet of classroom space, including labs and hands-on workshops.
Course Offering
The plumbing fundamentals course will teach students blueprint reading, state code,workplace safety, how to troubleshoot, repair, and install water systems and fixtures like sinks and toilets.
The program runs 4 days in class and 1 day online for a plumbing lab.
Completion of the class takes 16 weeks and costs $1700.
Address: 1870 Whitney Mesa Dr. Las Vegas, NE 89914
3 College Of Southern Nevada
About The School
The College Of Southern Nevada has over 150 degree and certificate programs.
Their main goal is to foster a sense of belonging for all students.
They offer several support services, like a veteran’s center, free tutoring, a multicultural center, and a student union.
For students in need, the student union runs a good pantry and will assist students with getting SNAP benefits.
Financial aid is also available.
Course Offering
The plumbing courses take a total of 60 hours to complete.
Classes include fire sprinklers, lead and mold removal, repair, maintenance, and installation of plumbing fixtures, appliances, and basic water systems.
There is also instruction on blueprint reading, state codes, and green technology.
Students must have a high school diploma or GED.
The cost of the program is dependent upon the amount of financial aid each student is granted.
The average cost after aid is approximately $1,200.
Address: 6375 W. Charleston Blvd. Las Vegas, NE 89146
Schools Summary Table
| Rank | School | |
|---|---|---|
|
#1 | Pipe Trades - UA525 JATC |
|
#2 | National Training Institute |
|
#3 | College Of Southern Nevada |
Read the full guide: How to Become a Plumber
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Plumbing License by State