Why Apprenticeship?

At ABC, we want to help you plan and realize dreams. Research shows that apprenticeship training gives construction workers a considerable advantage over those trained by informal means. Advantages include:

• Qualifies you for a higher level of pay.
• Exposes you to the latest technology and building codes.
• Offers you life-long mobility through a nationally recognized certification program of your skills.
• Employs nationally certified instructors with standardized curriculum including current textbooks, videos, and now CD-ROM.
• Receive College Credit for your training.
• You earn a passing grade and most employers pay for your training.

Plumber Skills

Reading blueprints or drawings, plumbers estimate materials and install or repair water supply lines, drainage systems, and gas systems. Plumbers measure, cut, and install plastic, copper, steel, and cast iron pipe. Depending on the type of pipe, the connection is made with silver solder and a torch; by simply screwing pipe together with a plumbing fitting; or, just applying glue to the fitting over a pipe. In the rough-in phase, plumbers cut holes in walls, ceilings, and floors to attach or hang pipes for connection to fixtures. In the trim-out phase, they install plumbing fixtures - bathtubs, showers, sinks, and toilets - and appliances such as dishwashers and water heaters. Plumbers use numerous hand tools, like a: tubing cutter, a torpedo level, and various wrenches to name a few. Today's plumbers operate power threading machines, air-acetylene torches, power drills, and saber-saws.

Plumbers must use their athletic capabilities. Eye-hand coordination, manual dexterity, and physical balance are important for climbing ladders or operating power tools. Thanks to safety training programs, employers have greatly reduced accidents on the job. Plumbers work outdoors and indoors - working closely with other trades.

Plumber Career Facts

• Today, government and private studies confirm the shortage of skilled Plumbers nationwide.
• Nationwide, there were approximately 398,000 Plumbers in the 1996 census. The supply is low and the demand is high.
• Factoring in retirement, job changes, Plumbers entering construction management or business ownership, it is easy to see the growing need for skilled Plumbers.
• Future career path opportunities include jobs as estimator, distribution manager, inspector, project manager, trade instructor, foreman, and more…
• Construction is one of the few industries where an individual can still own his or her own business.

Plumbers can build a financially rewarding future and experience an exciting career.

• Job satisfaction - It is rewarding to see your skills in a finished structure.
• Job security - High skills are in high demand.
• Low stress - Job requirements produce less mental stress.
• Physical exercise - Maintains a healthy body.
• Hours of employment - Usually weekends and evening are free for recreation.
• Unlimited earning power in an unlimited construction career path.
• Trade skills can save you thousands of dollars building or remodeling a home.