Thinking about a stable, hands-on career with strong earning potential? You’re not alone—many job seekers in rural Oregon are turning to skilled trades like plumbing. The Area IV Coos Curry Counties Plumber Trades Apprenticeship Training Committee offers a structured, state-approved path to becoming a licensed journeyman plumber without the burden of student debt. Whether you’re a high school graduate, a career changer, or a veteran seeking new skills, this program could be your gateway to long-term success in a high-demand field.
What Is the Area IV Coos Curry Counties Plumber Trades Apprenticeship Training Committee?
The Area IV Coos Curry Counties Plumber Trades Apprenticeship Training Committee is a joint apprenticeship training committee (JATC) recognized by the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI). It serves Coos and Curry counties—the southern coastal region of Oregon—and is part of Area IV of Oregon’s statewide plumbing apprenticeship system.
This committee oversees the recruitment, training, and certification of plumbing apprentices in alignment with national standards and local labor needs. Apprentices work full-time under licensed journeymen while attending classroom instruction—earning while they learn.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of plumbers is projected to grow 5% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. In rural areas like Coos and Curry counties, the demand is even higher due to aging infrastructure and workforce shortages.
💡 Did You Know? Oregon apprenticeships are registered under the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Apprenticeship, ensuring nationally recognized credentials. Learn more about apprenticeships in the U.S. on Wikipedia.
How Does the Plumbing Apprenticeship Program Work?
The program follows a “earn-while-you-learn” model that combines on-the-job training (OJT) with classroom instruction. Here’s how it works step by step:
- Application & Eligibility
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Hold a high school diploma or GED
- Provide proof of residency in Coos or Curry County (or surrounding service area)
- Pass a basic math and reading assessment
- Have reliable transportation (many job sites are rural)
- Selection Process
Applications are reviewed quarterly. Top candidates are invited to an interview with the committee. Selection is based on attitude, reliability, and aptitude—not prior experience. - Registration & Indenture
Once accepted, apprentices sign an “indenture agreement” with the committee and are placed with a licensed plumbing contractor. This formal contract lasts 4 years. - On-the-Job Training (OJT)
- 8,000 hours of supervised field work (approx. 40 hours/week)
- Tasks include pipe installation, fixture repair, blueprint reading, and code compliance
- Wages start at 50–60% of a journeyman’s rate and increase every 1,000 hours
- Related Technical Instruction (RTI)
- 576 hours of classroom learning over 4 years
- Classes typically held one evening per week or in weekend blocks
- Curriculum covers safety, math for plumbers, Oregon plumbing code, and green plumbing tech
- Licensing Exam
After completing all hours and coursework, apprentices sit for the Oregon Journeyman Plumber Exam. Passing = full licensure and higher wages (often $30–$50/hour).
Why Choose This Apprenticeship Over Trade School?
Many wonder: Should I go to plumbing school or join an apprenticeship? Here’s a quick comparison:
| Factor | Trade School | Area IV Apprenticeship |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $5,000–$15,000+ | $0 tuition (employer-paid) |
| Income During Training | None (or part-time) | Paid from Day 1 |
| Job Placement | Not guaranteed | Built-in employer network |
| Hands-On Experience | Simulated labs | Real-world projects |
| Licensing Support | Self-managed | Committee-guided exam prep |
“Apprenticeships are the gold standard for skilled trades,” says Maria Lopez, Workforce Development Director at Oregon’s Department of Community Colleges. “They reduce barriers to entry and ensure workers are job-ready on day one.”
What Are the Benefits of Joining This Committee’s Program?
- No student debt: Training is fully funded by employer partners and state grants.
- Health & retirement benefits: Available after 1,000 work hours with participating contractors.
- Career advancement: Many graduates become foremen, business owners, or union leaders.
- Community impact: You’ll help maintain clean water, safe sanitation, and resilient homes in coastal Oregon.
Plus, plumbing is recession-resistant. People always need running water—and licensed plumbers are essential during emergencies like pipe bursts or septic failures.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to apply? Here’s exactly what to do:
- Visit the official BOLI Apprenticeship Portal: https://www.oregon.gov/boli/apprenticeship
- Search for “Plumbing – Area IV” under active programs
- Download the application packet (includes checklist and forms)
- Gather documents:
- Birth certificate or passport
- High school/GED transcript
- Proof of address (utility bill or lease agreement)
- Submit before the quarterly deadline (typically March, June, September, December)
- Prepare for the assessment: Review basic fractions, decimals, and reading comprehension
- Attend your interview: Dress professionally and be ready to discuss your work ethic
⏱️ Tip: Apply early! Only 8–12 apprentices are accepted per cycle due to limited contractor capacity.
FAQ: Common Questions About the Program
Q1: Do I need prior experience to apply?
A: No! The program is designed for beginners. A willingness to learn, strong work ethic, and mechanical aptitude matter far more than experience.
Q2: Can I apply if I live outside Coos or Curry County?
A: Priority goes to local residents, but applicants from neighboring counties (e.g., Douglas, Josephine) may be considered if space is available. You must be able to commute reliably to job sites in the service area.
Q3: How much do apprentices earn?
A: Starting wages range from $18–$24/hour, depending on the employer. After 4 years, journeymen typically earn $35–$50/hour, plus overtime and benefits.
Q4: Is the program union-affiliated?
A: The Area IV committee works with both union and non-union contractors. Your placement depends on availability, not affiliation.
Q5: What if I fail the journeyman exam?
A: You can retake it after additional study. The committee provides exam prep resources and mentorship to improve your chances.
Q6: Are veterans eligible for extra support?
A: Yes! Veterans receive priority processing and may qualify for GI Bill benefits during training through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Conclusion
The Area IV Coos Curry Counties Plumber Trades Apprenticeship Training Committee isn’t just a training program—it’s a proven launchpad for a lifelong, lucrative career in one of America’s most essential trades. With zero tuition, real-world experience, and strong job security, it’s an opportunity too valuable to ignore—especially in today’s economy.
If you’re ready to build a future with your hands, your mind, and your integrity, apply today. And if you found this guide helpful, share it with someone in Coos or Curry County who’s looking for a fresh start!
📣 Follow us on social media for more Oregon trade career tips—and tag a future plumber! #OregonTrades #PlumbingApprenticeship #CoosCurryCareers
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