Apprenticeship Program Descriptions - Plumbers, Steamfitters, Pipefitters, and Refrigeration Workers

Plumbers, Steamfitters, Pipefitters, and Refrigeration Workers

HEATING/AIR CONDITIONING INSTALLER AND SERVICER, HOUSING PLUMBER, HOUSING REFRIGERATION MECHANIC, INDUSTRIAL MAINTENANCE PIPEFITTER, INDUSTRIAL PIPEFITTER/WELDER (MAINTENANCE), INDUSTRIAL REFRIGERATION TECHNICIAN, MAINTENANCE PIPEFITTER, MAINTENANCE PLUMBER/STEAMFITTER, MARINE PIPEFITTER, PIPEFITTERS, PLUMBER, PLUMBER STEAMFITTER, REFRIGERATION FITTER, REFRIGERATION MECHANIC, RESIDENTIAL PLUMBER, STEAMFITTER, WATER PIPE WORKER

The Work
Plumbers, steamfitters, pipefitters, and refrigeration fitters are all crafts people who install piping systems that carry water, steam, air and other liquids or gases necessary for sanitation, industrial production, heating and air conditioning, and many other uses. They also alter, remodel and repair existing piping systems and install plumbing fixtures, radiators and other heating units, some appliances, as well as refrigeration and air conditioning equipment. Workers measure, cut and bend pipe, weld, braze, caulk, solder, glue or thread joints at residential and commercial job sites.

Working Conditions
Plumbers and pipefitters are sometimes required to work in high places or in confined areas. Also, because much of the work is performed outdoors, they are exposed to adverse weather conditions at times. Repair work is often during an emergency and might be in dark, wet and cramped conditions in ditches, under houses and in other difficult situations.

The Apprenticeship
This program, depending upon trade, requires 4,000-10,000 hours of on-the-job training. Additionally, all apprentices are required to attend 144-1,000 hours related training classes. Some programs schedule these classes in the evening.

Apprenticeship Entry Requirements

At least 18 years old
High school diploma
Must have completed one year of algebra and one year of plane geometry and must produce transcript. Math education requirements may be waived if you can show proof of mathematical knowledge.
Score high on STAB S61R aptitude test
Be a resident of the county for at least one year
Valid Washington State driver’s license