Plumbing Careers and Education: Is Plumbing Recycling Right for You?
If you’re considering returning to school for plumbing or exploring plumbing recycling as a career path, now is a great time to reevaluate your options. The plumbing industry has seen significant changes in wages and opportunities over the past decade, making it an attractive field for both new and experienced professionals.
Plumbing Salary Trends
Since 2004, the average hourly earnings for pipe layers and plumbers have increased considerably. Back then, entry-level plumbers earned around $9.19 per hour, while the top 10% made over $25.07 per hour. The average rate was approximately $13.68 per hour.
It’s important to note that these figures typically apply to plumbers employed by companies. Independent plumbers often command much higher rates—sometimes up to $130 per hour. However, working independently also means managing business overhead and possibly employing others, which can impact overall earnings.
Wages Across Plumbing and HVAC Fields
- Natural Gas Distribution: Highest hourly wages at approximately $23.86.
- Non-Residential Building Construction: Average hourly wage of $21.55.
- Hydraulic Technology Contractors: Around $19.85 per hour.
- Utility Construction Plumbers: About $18.29 per hour.
- Local Government Plumbers: Typically the lowest, at $16.30 per hour.
Apprentices and trainees generally earn about half the average wage of a fully qualified plumber, pipefitter, or steamfitter. As they gain experience and skills, their salaries increase accordingly.
Top Institutes for Plumbing Education
If you’re interested in formal training or recycling your plumbing skills, consider these reputable institutes:
- New England Institute of Technology (Warwick, Rhode Island)
- Everest Institute (Houston, Texas)
- National Institute of Technology (Long Beach, Texas)
- Wyotech (Fremont, California)
- Pennco Tech (Bristol, Pennsylvania)
- Vatterott College (two campuses in Missouri)
- Vancouver Career College (seven campuses in British Columbia, Canada)
- Eastwick College (Paterson, New Jersey)
- Career Development Institute (PCDI, online-based)
- Penn Foster Career School (online and correspondence-based)
What to Expect from Plumbing Programs
Institutions like the New England Institute of Technology offer associate and bachelor’s degrees in plumbing technology. Students learn essential skills such as planning, reading blueprints, drawing, fitting, drainage, waste management, ventilation, and troubleshooting. Graduates are well-prepared to work as plumbers, HVAC contractors, or water supply technicians.
Online institutes like PCDI and Penn Foster allow students to study at their own pace, making it easier and more affordable to qualify for plumbing careers while balancing other commitments.
Interested in learning more about plumbing careers or finding the right plumbing service for your needs? Visit Frank Chang’s site for expert advice on choosing the best plumbing solutions.
