A Career as a Plumber
Nearly all areas of construction rely on plumbers. If you enjoy working with your hands and trouble-shooting problems, you may like this trade. Plumbers install, repair and maintain pipes in buildings. Job tasks include welding and connecting pipes, opening walls and floors to reach or install pipes and testing pipes for leaks. Plumbers also install dishwashers, garbage disposals, washing machines, and hot water heaters. After years spent learning the trade, a plumber may start their own business and become their own boss.
More about a career as a Plumber
High School:
There are no high school programs locally. Contact us about spending a day with a local plumber to find out more about this career. The Char-Em Intermediate School District has programs with local contractors for training during the school day.
Post-Secondary:
There are no formal programs to become a plumber. Experience is the best teacher!
Find out more about this career: NWMICareers.org
Career Development
Information on how to qualify for and receive a license as a Plumber in the State of Michigan: Licensing and Regulatory Affairs
Additional Training Courses:
These courses are offered by Online CTI, headquartered in Traverse City. Online courses are also available from several providers.
A Day in the Life of an Plumber
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Review blueprints, building codes or specifications to determine work details or procedures
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Assemble pipe sections, tubing or fittings using: couplings, clamps, screws, bolts, cement, plastic solvent, or caulking. Once assembled, use soldering, brazing or welding equipment to finish the work.
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Install pipe assemblies, fittings and valves. Repair or install appliances such as dishwashers and water heaters. Install or repair sinks, toilets and faucets.
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Maintain or repair plumbing by replacing defective washers, replacing or mending broken pipes or opening clogged drains
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Locate and mark the position of pipe installations, connections, passage holes, or fixtures in structures using measuring instruments such as rulers or levels
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Install underground storm, sanitary or water piping systems and extend piping as needed to connect fixtures and plumbing
More info on becoming an Plumber: O*NET Online