Thinking about a future in plumbing—but still in high school? You’re not alone. Many teens are discovering that skilled trades like plumbing offer stable income, job security, and faster entry into the workforce—without the burden of student debt. The good news? You can start building your plumbing career right now, even before graduation. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to get started as a plumber in high school, step by step, with real-world tips and trusted resources.
Why Start a Plumbing Career in High School?
The U.S. is facing a skilled labor shortage, and plumbing is no exception. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of plumbers is projected to grow 5% from 2024 to 2034—faster than the average for all occupations. That means over 50,000 new plumbing jobs will open up in the next decade.
Starting early gives you a massive advantage:
- Earn certifications before college applications
- Begin apprenticeships at 16 or 17 in many states
- Avoid $30K+ in student loans (average for 4-year degrees)
- Start earning $15–$25/hour during training
“Teens who enter trades early often out-earn their college peers by age 25,” says Mike Rowe, founder of the mikeroweWORKS Foundation.
Step 1: Enroll in a Vocational or CTE Program
Most public high schools in the U.S. offer Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs—and plumbing is a common track. These classes teach fundamentals like:
- Pipe fitting and soldering
- Blueprint reading
- Safety protocols (OSHA standards)
- Basic drainage and water supply systems
How to find one:
Ask your school counselor if your district partners with a local technical school. Programs like SkillsUSA or PLUMBING-JOBS.org can also connect you to nearby opportunities.
💡 Pro Tip: Some CTE programs even grant college credits or industry-recognized credentials like the NCCER Core Certification.
Step 2: Get OSHA 10-Hour Safety Certification
Safety is non-negotiable in plumbing. The OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety Course is often required before you can work on job sites—even as an apprentice.
- Cost: $60–$80 (some schools cover it)
- Format: Online or in-person (takes ~10 hours)
- Validity: Lifetime certification
This credential shows employers you’re serious and safety-conscious—a huge plus when applying for summer internships.
Step 3: Apply for a Youth Apprenticeship
Many states allow students as young as 16 to join registered plumbing apprenticeships. These combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction.
| State | Minimum Age | Program Example |
|---|---|---|
| Texas | 16 | Texas State Technical College Youth Program |
| Ohio | 16 | Ohio’s High School Apprenticeship Program |
| California | 17 | California Plumbers Union Local 441 |
Apprentices typically:
- Work 20–30 hours/week during summer
- Earn $14–$20/hour (increases yearly)
- Learn under licensed journeymen
📌 Note: Requirements vary by state. Check your local Department of Labor or visit apprenticeship.gov to search programs.
Step 4: Shadow a Licensed Plumber
Nothing beats real-world exposure. Reach out to local plumbing companies and ask if you can job shadow for a day. Many small businesses welcome eager students—it’s free help for them, and priceless experience for you.
Bring:
- A notebook
- Steel-toed boots (if allowed on site)
- A list of questions (e.g., “What’s the most common repair you do?”)
This builds your network and could lead to a part-time helper role.
Step 5: Build Foundational Skills at Home
You don’t need a workshop to start practicing. Try these beginner-friendly projects:
- Fix a leaky faucet (learn washer replacement)
- Install a new showerhead
- Unclog a drain using a hand auger (not chemicals!)
⚠️ Always turn off the main water valve before any project. Safety first!
Document your progress in a skills journal—great for resumes and interviews.
Pros vs. Cons of Starting Plumbing in High School
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Earn money while learning | ❌ Physically demanding work |
| ✅ No student debt | ❌ May miss traditional “college experience” |
| ✅ High job demand nationwide | ❌ Requires passing licensing exams later |
| ✅ Entrepreneurial potential (start your own business by 25!) | ❌ Early hours or emergency calls possible |
Despite the challenges, 89% of plumbing apprentices complete their programs—far higher than college retention rates (National Center for Education Statistics).
What About College? Do You Need It?
No. Plumbing is a licensure-based profession, not a degree-based one. After high school, you’ll typically:
- Complete a 4–5 year apprenticeship
- Pass a state licensing exam (e.g., journeyman plumber test)
- Work independently or start your own company
That said, some pursue associate degrees in plumbing technology (offered at community colleges) to accelerate licensing. But it’s optional.
For more on trade education vs. college, see Wikipedia’s overview of vocational education in the United States.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I really become a plumber straight out of high school?
A: Yes! Most states let you begin a registered apprenticeship at 16 or 17. You’ll work under a licensed plumber while taking classes. After 4–5 years, you can take the journeyman exam and work independently.
Q2: How much can a teen plumber earn?
A: Apprentices typically start at $14–$20/hour. By age 20, many earn $25–$35/hour. Master plumbers often make $70,000–$100,000/year, especially if self-employed.
Q3: Do I need good grades to join a plumbing program?
A: Not necessarily. CTE programs focus on attendance, attitude, and hands-on effort. However, strong math skills (especially fractions and geometry) help with measurements and pipe angles.
Q4: Is plumbing a dirty or dangerous job?
A: It can be messy, but modern tools and PPE (gloves, masks, boots) minimize risks. With proper training, injury rates are low. The BLS reports plumbing has fewer injuries than retail or food service.
Q5: Can girls become plumbers too?
A: Absolutely! Women make up only ~2% of plumbers today, but organizations like Nontraditional Employment for Women (NEW) actively support female trainees. Demand for diversity is growing fast.
Q6: What tools do I need to start?
A: Begin with basics: adjustable wrench, pipe wrench, tubing cutter, plunger, and Teflon tape. Many apprentices receive tool kits from employers or unions. Don’t buy expensive gear until you’re sure plumbing is your path.
Conclusion
Starting a plumbing career in high school isn’t just possible—it’s smart. You’ll gain real skills, avoid debt, and enter a recession-proof field with endless growth potential. Whether you dream of fixing historic homes, designing green plumbing systems, or running your own business, your journey can begin this semester.
👉 Ready to take the first step? Talk to your school counselor about CTE programs today—or share this guide with a friend who’s tired of the “college or bust” myth.
Found this helpful? Share it on Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok to inspire other teens! #TradeNotDebt #PlumbingCareer #HighSchoolToHighIncome
Leave a Reply