Plumbing

What Plumbers Do

A plumber is someone who installs and maintains pipes in our homes and businesses. These pipes need to be installed and maintained for potable water, drainage, irrigation and sewage, as well as other uses. Plumbers can be involved in hands-on work or may work in a design capacity, drafting blueprints and helping make the installation process more efficient. This is a profession with an extensive number of possible career paths. Some of the best paying jobs are in the more unusual specialties, since there is less competition. 

Work Environment

Many plumbers are self-employed or work for a small business employing less than ten people, though some might find working for larger entities or the government is more desirable. 

Apprenticeships in Utah 

SLCC/JATC Apprenticeship Plumber/Pipefitter

5 Semesters

Plumber/Pipefitters fabricate, remodel and repair all classes of piping systems. This program is registered with the Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training, and Apprentice registration is strongly encouraged. The national JATC curriculum has been adopted by the local sponsors and adherence to this and all other registering and licensing bodies must be strictly followed. An apprentice must have the approval of the JATC before registering for classes.

The College provides classroom-related and supplemental instruction for apprenticeship programs. Classes are held in the days, evenings, and Saturdays, depending on the program. The College neither provides on-the-job training nor acts as a sponsor for apprentices. Individuals must locate their own sponsors. For individual industry-sponsored programs, students should contact their employers’ training director or the Apprenticeship Office.


Utah Career Center Plumbing Apprenticeship CP

Class training - 3 nights/week On-the job Experience - 1800 hours/year

Whether you are thinking about getting into residential or commercial plumbing, you can get the training and certification(s) you need at Utah Career Center. Our state-of-the-art plumbing apprenticeship program, developed over 70 years, offers the perfect blend of hands-on training, real-world experience, and expert instruction. 

Training Programs at DATC

DATC Plumbing Apprenticeship

720 Hours (48 Months)

Students in the Plumbing Apprentice program will learn design, install, repair and maintaining piping systems such as soil, waste, vent, potable water, waste water treatment, gas systems (medical, propane, and natural) in residential, commercial, industrial building and utility sites. Students will learn to assemble, install, maintain and repair pipes, fittings, fixtures, appurtenances, appliances of heating, storm water and sanitary drainage systems according to specifications and plumbing codes. In addition, students will learn how to install sanitary fixtures; such as lavatories, toilets, bathtubs, bathrooms accessories, showers, kitchen sinks and appliances, drinking fountains and laundry equipment. 

Training Programs at MTECH

MTECH  Plumbing Apprenticeship

720 Hours

The MTECH Plumbing Apprenticeship Program prepares students to become certified Journeyman Plumbers. The State of Utah requires plumbing apprentices to have 576 school hours and 8,000 hours of on-the-job training to sit for the state journeyman exam. This is a 720-hour accredited course of study that prepares students for the rigors of state testing and fulfills the State’s educational requirement. It is designed to complement the on-the-job training apprentices receive through their employer, as they work alongside experienced plumbers in the field. 

Training Programs at SLCC

 SLCC Apprentice Plumber Independent

5 Semesters

A plumber is a compulsory licensed craftsman who performs any mechanical work in the installation, maintenance, repair, removal and replacement of water supply and water/liquid waste removal. Plumbers do both interior and exterior work in greatly varying job conditions. To sit for the journeyman exam, an apprentice must complete 576 minimum hours of related instruction and four years and 8,000 hours of on-the-job training. Application with the State of Utah Department of Occupational and Professional Licensing must be made upon employment. Suggested registration with the Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training is strongly encouraged, but is optional at the discretion of the employer. 

The College provides classroom-related and supplemental instruction for apprenticeship programs. Classes are held in the days, evenings, and Saturdays, depending on the program. The College neither provides on-the-job training nor acts as a sponsor for apprentices. Individuals must locate their own sponsors. For individual industry-sponsored programs, students should contact their employers’ training director or the Apprenticeship Office.