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Plumbing & Pipefitting

Move water, gas, and energy through every building.

Plumber & Pipefitter at work

What is a Plumber & Pipefitter?

Plumbers and pipefitters install and maintain the piping systems that carry water, gas, and waste. Pipefitters also work on high-pressure industrial systems — including the mechanical backbone of data centers and energy plants.

What you’d actually do

  • Install and repair water, gas, and drainage systems
  • Read plans and lay out pipe runs to code
  • Solder, braze, and join copper, PEX, and steel
  • Service fixtures, water heaters, and backflow systems

How to get started

  • Apply to a UA/plumbing apprenticeship — paid training, no degree needed
  • Or join a licensed plumbing contractor as an apprentice
  • Earn your journeyman card, then optional contractor license

Common questions

What's the difference between a plumber and a pipefitter?

Plumbers focus on water, gas, and drainage in homes and businesses, while pipefitters work on higher-pressure industrial and mechanical piping systems. Both train through apprenticeships.

How long is a plumbing apprenticeship?

Most plumbing apprenticeships run four to five years, combining paid on-the-job hours with classroom instruction so you graduate with a journeyman card and no debt.

Your future is hiring.

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