Working in the plumbing industry can be an interesting and beneficial way to earn a living. In order to work as a licensed plumber, you must complete an apprenticeship period first. Becoming a plumber's apprentice provides you with the opportunity to gain valuable experience handling plumbing emergencies under the experienced eye of a professional plumber.
Here are three simple things that you can do to help ensure the success of your plumbing apprenticeships in the future:
1. Become proficient in math.
While it is important to have problem-solving and mechanical skills in order to work in the plumbing industry, few people realize the vital role that mathematics plays when it comes to the completion of basic plumbing tasks.
If you want to secure a spot as a plumber's apprentice, you need to become proficient in math. Enroll in courses specializing in Algebra and Geometry prior to applying for an apprenticeship so that you will be able to serve as an asset when it comes to measuring and fitting pipes during your apprenticeship period.
2. Join a union.
Finding a reputable apprenticeship can be challenging, especially for individuals with no ties to the plumbing community. If you want to find a plumbing apprenticeship that is well-suited to meet your learning needs, it can be beneficial to join a union.
Unions often provide basic training and assessments to determine your aptitude for plumbing, then use this information to place you with a plumber whose experience and skill will be able to serve as an asset in helping you shape your future career. Union apprenticeships can also come with lucrative pay, insurance, and leave benefits as well.
3. Complete a trade course.
If you are hoping to find a private plumbing apprenticeship, then it can be helpful to complete a trade course in plumbing prior to applying for an apprenticeship program with a private plumbing company.
These courses are designed to give you a working knowledge of the plumbing industry, and many trade courses give you the opportunity to complete a few hands-on training activities as well. Performing well in a trade course shows a plumber that you will serve as an asset to his or her company, making it easier to secure a private apprenticeship in the future.
Plumbing apprenticeships are valuable periods in which you can gain experience and skill in the plumbing industry prior to working on your own. Improve your chances of success in a plumbing apprenticeship by becoming proficient in math, joining a union, and completing a trade course.