Typically, a plumbing course at a trade school will last 2 years. Students learn about plumbing codes, chemistry, mathematics, blueprint reading and other subjects. Most graduates enter an apprentice program, which usually lasts 4 years.
Plumbing students are trained to work in a variety of fields, such as water supply, gas installation, refrigeration and pipe welding. Most programs focus on a combination of residence and commercial plumbing. Graduates can become licensed plumbers or do maintenance and repair work on irrigation and other types of water systems.
Waterlines damages can run into thousands of dollars, so preventing these problems by utilizing a licensed plumber to correct the problems before they get out of hand is a good idea. Licensed plumbers are trained professionals who must pass an exam to get their certification, so you can rest assured that the work that they do will be top-notch, and will comply with local codes and standards.
The purpose of a plumbing trade school is to provide the best possible education to the student. Specialized training in the area offers quick certification without the time commitment and hassle of a traditional school. Trade schools can be accredited in the state in which they are located, but some are not accredited. Obviously, certification obtained through accredited schools will be of more value than those that are not.
Plumbing trade schools offer a valuable education to individuals who are seeking a stable career. The plumbing field is a very lucrative one, and it is projected to increase in the coming years. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the average salary of a plumber in 2007 was $47,350.