You may have thought you would like to become a plumber, like those at Knights Plumbing & Drain. This career tackles a lot more than just fixing leaking faucets or unclogging sinks. You could work on repairing pipes, fixing flooded basements, and even fixing steam and gas vents. How can you start out on this interesting career?

You also might want to know how much training the plumber you hired has had to go through. Well, here are the steps a plumber takes.

College or Trade School

To become a plumber, college or university isn't necessary, but a plumber must go through a certain amount of hours of technical instruction in order to get their license. This may vary from state to state, and you can check with your state's trade association to find out the required hours. Training can also be provided or sponsored by unions.

Many plumbers get their training through college or through technical schools. This can take a few years to complete. If you wish to have a more advanced knowledge and work in systems development, for example, you will need a degree to learn estimation, layout, installation, and more.

Apprenticeship

You can also learn how to become a plumber through apprenticeship programs. It is also recommended to go through a college program at the same time since you will not only be required to have technical training, but on-the-job paid training as well.

It is possible to have all your training through apprenticeship programs. If you prefer these programs, you will not only receive hands-on training working in the field but you will also learn mathematics, applied physics, and even chemistry.

License

Once you have completed the required college course or apprenticeship training hours, you will need to pass your state's licensing requirements. Each state will have their own qualifications you must possess in order to receive your license, but a few years' experience on-the-job with a licensed plumber working alongside you and passing a knowledge exam are typically needed.

If you want to work on gas lines, you may need an additional license. Once you receive these licenses, you are able to work on your own and are now considered a journeyman.

Specializations

It is possible to specialize in the plumber trade too. For example, you could train to become a pipelayer. This means you would learn to install pipes needed for plumbing systems in residential and commercial or industrial spaces.

You could also train to become a pipefitter, which usually works on larger industrial projects installing heating and cooling systems, or a steamfitter, which installs piping systems that move steam acting under high pressure in environments where heat and electricity are made.