In excess of 8,000 new job openings for plumbers will be available in Texas through 2028. Plumbers have a wide skillset. With that comes the benefit of self-employment, unlimited income, flexible schedules, and workplace diversity. A career in plumbing does not require a degree or even formal training at a college or university. Apprenticeship programs will provide the opportunity to learn the trade in a hands-on way and earn while you learn. If you do decide to enroll in a plumbing program, you will gain all the skills required for beginning employment in less than 6 months. Plumber programs are also very hands-on, so you’ll be prepared for a fluid transition to the workplace.
Austin Community College
Austin Community College offers a plumbing program through its Department of Continuing Education. The hands-on program prepares adults for employment in an in-demand industry. It comprises of three course sections- Introduction to the Construction Industry, Introduction to the Plumbing Trade, and Residential Construction Plumbing I. Courses must be completed in sequence. Topics include material selection, mathematics calculations applicable to the plumbing trade, hand and power tools, safety practices, OSHA 10 training requirements, construction math, hand and power tools, materials handling, construction drawings, rough-in-drain, waste, and vent pipes, installation of domestic water lines, installation of gas lines, and set control valves. Courses will take a hands-on approach. More than 80 percent of the program delivery will be through practical application. Graduates will be prepared for NCCER Core Construction and NCCER Level I Plumber certification. They will qualify for employment as a sewer service helper, new installation helper, and water system repairs.
Program overview:
Plumbing Certificate Program
Duration: 5 months (10 hours per week)
Prerequisites:
- Must be at least 18 years of age at the commencement of the class
- A high school diploma is not required
- View the program schedule and register and pay for courses
- Course modules must be taken in sequence
Program cost:
Tuition for the program is $1,400. It includes books and supplies. Additional costs include student accident insurance and first day book fee.
- Website: http://www.austincc.edu/
- Address: 5930 Middle Fiskville Rd., Austin, Texas 78752
- Phone: 512-223-7000
Skillpoint Alliance Austin
Skillpoint’s pre-apprentice plumbing program prepares adults for work as entry-level Plumbing Apprentices. The program will begin with an introduction to plumbing/construction math, reading a tape measure, safety, hand tools, and power tools. It will continue with the difference between various types of pipes including plastic, steel, and copper and correct use of pipe hangers. Students will learn how to cut and thread pipe, how to identify different types of fittings and pipe, and how to build a drain-waste-vent system. They will have opportunities to meet local employers and apprenticeship representatives to learn of different career opportunities within the industry. Graduates will obtain OSHA-10 certification and will have support to obtain their Plumer’s Apprentice License from the TDLR and Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners.
Program overview:
Pre-Apprentice Plumbing Program
Duration: 5 weeks
Contact hours: N/A
Prerequisites:
- At least 18 years or older
- Provide Proof of Right to work in the United States
- Must be a resident of Texas
- Must have an acceptable criminal history as determined by the relevant state licensing department (TDLR, TSBPE, or HHS)
- Proof of Education (GED or higher) – applicants who are unable to show proof may take a scheduled assessment
- Must be under 200% of the Federal Poverty Line
Program cost:
Students will have the opportunity to earn as they learn in the trade.
- Website: https://skillpointalliance.org/job-training/austin-training/
- Address: 8868 Research Blvd, Suite 505 Austin TX 78758
- Phone: (512) 323-6773