PLUMBING

ABOUT THE PLUMBER: Black Girl Beauty School of Careers welcomes students who are strong, self-motivated and fast paced learners who desire to learn, grow and help others. The Plumbing Business is a recession free industry that’s wide open, with unlimited opportunities! 

As a plumbing apprentice, you will gain practical, hands-on experience while working under the supervision of a licensed plumber. The apprenticeship combines on-the-job training with classroom education to help you develop the technical skills and knowledge necessary to work as a professional plumber.

Here’s an overview of what you can expect to learn during your plumbing apprenticeship:

• Pipe Installation and Maintenance: Learn how to install various types of pipes, including copper, PVC, PEX, and galvanized steel, for both residential and commercial systems.
   
• Fitting and Joining Techniques: Master techniques like soldering, brazing, welding, threading, and gluing pipes.
   
• Plumbing Fixtures: Learn how to install and repair fixtures such as sinks, toilets, bathtubs, showers, and faucets.
   
• Drainage Systems: Understand how to install and repair drainage systems, including traps, vent systems, and sewer lines.
   

• Tools of the Trade: Gain proficiency with a wide range of plumbing tools like pipe cutters, wrenches, pipe benders, drills, and threading machines.
   
• Power Tools: Learn how to safely use power tools such as pipe threading machines, saws, and grinders.
   
• Diagnostic Equipment: Use leak detection tools, pressure gauges, and other equipment to diagnose and repair plumbing issues.
   

• Clogging and Blockages: Understand how to locate and clear clogged drains and sewer lines using augers, snakes, and hydro-jetting.
   
• Water Pressure Issues: Learn how to troubleshoot and fix low or high water pressure problems.
   
• Leak Detection: Identify and repair leaks in pipes, fixtures, and joints.
   
• System Evaluation: Diagnose and resolve plumbing issues in both residential and commercial settings.
   

• National and Local Codes: Learn the plumbing codes (e.g., IPC or UPC) required in your area, which govern the design, installation, and maintenance of plumbing systems.
   
• Legal and Safety Standards: Understand the legal requirements for plumbing systems, including venting, drainage, and water supply regulations.
   
• Inspection Requirements: Learn how plumbing installations are inspected and approved according to code standards.
   

• Water Distribution Systems: Understand how to design and install systems that deliver potable water to homes and businesses, including pressure regulation, pumps, and backflow prevention.
   
• Drainage and Vent Systems: Learn how to design and install drain, waste, and vent systems, which carry wastewater away and ensure proper airflow in the pipes.
   
• Sewage Systems: Gain knowledge of sewer systems, including septic tanks, sewage treatment plants, and the installation of drain lines.
   

• Gas Line Installation: Learn how to safely install and maintain gas lines for appliances like water heaters, stoves, and furnaces.
   
• Water Heating Systems: Understand the installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of water heaters, boilers, and tankless water heaters.
   
• Heating Systems: Work with hydronic and radiant heating systems, including the installation of piping and components.
   

• Workplace Safety: Learn how to follow OSHA and other safety regulations on the job site, including proper lifting techniques, handling hazardous materials, and using protective equipment.
   
• Protective Equipment: Understand the use of PPE (personal protective equipment) like gloves, goggles, and knee pads to ensure safety.
   
• Hazardous Situations: Learn how to deal with hazardous situations like gas leaks, mold, and water contamination.
   

In addition to on-the-job training, plumbing apprentices typically attend technical school or night classes to supplement their learning. These courses may cover:

• Blueprint Reading: Learn how to read plumbing blueprints and schematics for installations.
   
• Advanced Plumbing Techniques: Study topics like water conservation systems, green plumbing, and modern plumbing technologies.
   
• Math & Estimation: Understand how to calculate the quantity of materials needed and estimate costs for plumbing projects.
   

As an apprentice, you'll gain practical experience in:

• Job Site Coordination: Learning how to work efficiently and effectively with a team of plumbers and other construction workers.
   
• Customer Service: Develop communication skills for interacting with clients, discussing plumbing issues, and explaining the scope of work.
   
• Time Management: Learn how to manage multiple tasks efficiently to complete projects on time.
   
• Documentation: Understand the importance of documenting work completed, including inspections and repairs.
   

By the end of your apprenticeship, you should have the skills and knowledge to:

• Pass Plumbing Exams: After completing your apprenticeship and meeting state requirements, you may need to pass a licensing exam to become a journeyman plumber.
   
• Move Up the Ladder: After becoming licensed, you can progress to a master plumber, open your own plumbing business, or specialize in areas like backflow prevention or pipefitting.