There are many benefits to becoming a plumber. For an individual to take advantage of them, they must first complete the necessary education and training requirements at a vocational school. Pennco Tech offers an extensive Plumbing and Heating Technology Program at our Bristol, PA, campus, preparing students with everything they need to pursue a meaningful career as a plumber. Learn more about our comprehensive program, the reasons you should consider a plumbing profession, and the various roles you can apply for after graduation.
About Our Program
Offered exclusively at our Bristol campus, our Plumbing and Heating Technology Program incorporates hands-on training from dedicated instructors, who teach students the skills and proper techniques needed to break into this professional field. Topics covered in the program include repair, installation, and in-depth coverage of various pipe systems. Students will also get the opportunity to work directly with common equipment used in the plumbing trade, such as:
- PVC fittings
- Copper tube and fittings
- Cast-iron pipe and fittings
- Carbon steel pipe and fittings
- Fixtures
- Water distribution systems
Safety is also an emphasis of the program. We teach students the dangers a plumber can face, instructing them on how to reduce risk. In addition, the plumbing program at Pennco Tech includes OSHA safety training.
Benefits of Becoming a Plumber
A career as a plumber offers individuals a variety of great benefits, making it an incredibly desirable profession. Reasons to consider pursuing a career as a plumber include:
Job Security
The need for plumbers will always be present. Plumbers perform valuable services that will remain in high demand. Employment of plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters is projected to grow five percent from 2020 to 2030, in part due to more experienced workers retiring year after year.
Excellent Potential for Growth
Once you become a qualified plumber, the job advancement opportunities are seemingly endless. After obtaining an entry-level position, plumbers can work their way up to master plumber, foreman, superintendent, estimator, project manager, and beyond.
Help Others
The services you provide help make a difference in the lives of others. Most of the time, a plumber is needed in emergencies. More so, plumbers help keep people safe. Without their services, plumbing systems could not deliver clean water to households and commercial businesses, putting everyone at risk of potentially harmful illnesses.
Different Career Paths for Plumbers
After completing the plumbing program at Pennco Tech, graduates can enter the profession in a variety of different fields. Some of these roles will require several years of experience and possibly additional training and certification, but the program at Pennco Tech offers a great starting point to explore various opportunities, including:
Plumbing Technician
The education you receive from Pennco Tech will prepare you to obtain a job as a plumbing technician. As a plumbing technician, you will be tasked with providing an array of services, including:
- Diagnosing issues with plumbing systems
- Developing an appropriate solution
- Performing repair and maintenance services
Pipefitter
Trained with a more specialized approach, pipefitters deal with organizing, assembling, creating, and maintaining mechanical piping systems designed to withstand high pressure. These types of systems are generally found in industrial settings. You may also start as a pipefitter assistant and expand your on-the-job training before entering the pipefitter role.
Pipelayer
Another specialized role in the plumbing industry is a pipelayer. These types of plumbers are tasked with laying pipes, which plays a large role in creating infrastructure for rural and urban communities. The work done by pipelayers provides buildings and homes with sewage disposal, drainage, and clean water.
Project Manager
As a plumber gains more experience, they can see themselves becoming a project manager. In this role, they will oversee day-to-day operations, as well as ensure the quality of work is up to par. Project managers are also tasked with ensuring jobs are completed on time.
Business Owner
Many plumbers choose to go into business for themselves by starting their own plumbing operations. As the owner of a plumbing business, you will oversee any employees you have and maintain the reputation of your operation.
Start Your Journey to a Rewarding Career as a Plumber
Those in the Tri-State area and Pennsylvania who wish to pursue a meaningful career as a plumber can begin by enrolling in the Plumbing and Heating Technology Program at Pennco Tech. Once enrolled, students will acquire the required skills and knowledge to pursue the career path of their choice. Contact us today to learn more about our trade programs and how Pennco Tech can help you achieve the profession you desire.