By Henry 
Ever thought about a career that’s always in demand, offers good pay, and keeps you busy with hands-on work? Plumbing might just be what you’re looking for.
From fixing a leaky pipe at home to installing systems in commercial buildings, plumbers are essential in keeping things flowing smoothly. It’s a job that’s both practical and rewarding, and the best part? There’s always a need for skilled plumbers across the U.S.
If you’re someone who enjoys fixing things and solving problems, plumbing could be a great fit. With the right training and experience, you can kickstart a career that provides job security and plenty of opportunities for growth.
What Does a Plumber Do?
A plumber is responsible for making sure water systems are working properly. That means installing, repairing, and maintaining everything from pipes to toilets, sinks, and bathtubs. They also design plumbing systems and make sure everything is running smoothly.
Plumbers travel to different locations to solve plumbing problems—whether it’s in a home, office, or factory—and they’re experts at fixing and installing a wide variety of water-related fixtures.
Here are the main duties you’ll take on as a plumber:
- Learn the ins and outs of the profession, including all the safety standards and technical knowledge.
- Travel to job sites where plumbing services are needed.
- Identify plumbing issues and recommend effective solutions.
- Perform new installations, repairs, and maintenance on water systems and fixtures.
- Troubleshoot problems and diagnose issues that need fixing.
- Do tasks like welding, cutting, fitting, and assembling pipes.
- Always follow safety standards and plumbing codes to make sure your work is top-notch.
How to Become a Plumber
Ready to become a plumber? Here’s how you can get started:
- Get Your High School Diploma or GED
First things first—you’ll need a high school diploma. Focus on subjects like math, science, and technology, since they’ll help you understand plumbing systems down the road.
- Get Vocational Training
A high school diploma isn’t enough on its own. You’ll also need to enroll in a vocational training program or technical college that provides hands-on experience. This will teach you the ropes of plumbing, from pipe installation to troubleshooting.
- Complete an Apprenticeship
After your training, the next step is an apprenticeship. This is where you’ll get real-world experience working with professional plumbers. Apprenticeships typically combine classroom learning with on-the-job training, giving you the chance to pick up specialized skills and techniques.
- Get Licensed
Most states require plumbers to be licensed. To get your license, you’ll need to pass an exam that tests your knowledge of plumbing codes and practices. Before you can take the exam, you’ll usually need to complete a certain number of apprenticeship hours.
- Gain Experience
Once you’re licensed, you’re ready to start working as a plumber. You can work full-time or part-time, independently or with a company. As you gain more experience, you’ll become more skilled and have the opportunity to take on bigger projects. Continuing education is also a good way to stay sharp and keep advancing in your career.
Can Plumbers Start Their Own Business?
Yes, many plumbers choose to start their own businesses. If you’ve got the right skills and experience, you can go independent. However, starting your own plumbing business requires more than just technical knowledge. You’ll also need a plumbing license and an understanding of how to run a business. Some plumbers choose to work for a company while others start their own once they’ve built up enough experience.
Conclusion
Plumbing is a career that offers a lot of potential. With the right training and dedication, you can become a skilled plumber and enjoy long-term job security. There’s always demand for qualified plumbers, so the job market is strong. Plus, whether you work for a company or start your own business, plumbing offers the opportunity for a financially rewarding career while helping your community by keeping their water systems in top shape.