Updated January 2024
Been considering taking plumber training for a while, and wondering if this is the year you should take the leap?
Beginning a new career path is challenging for many people, especially if it involves going back to school. Will the effort be worth it? Will the investment in plumber training pay off with reliable, rewarding work after graduation?
These are some of the questions we tackle in this post, as we break down what we consider the top five reasons to seize the day and start a plumber program this year.
1. Plumber is a Highly Valued & Respected Trade
We need clean water to survive. Effective plumbing is the foundation of modern cities and an essential requirement of every home, office, and public building. Imagine trying to go a single day without access to safe drinking water or the conveniences of indoor plumbing.
Skilled plumbers are highly valued and well-respected for the indispensable services they provide. During times of emergency, or simply for routine maintenance and repairs, most people would agree that a reliable plumber is worth their weight in gold!
2. Plumbing Pre-apprenticeship Training is Quick to Complete
Looking for a fast training path to a stable career? Compared to traditional college diplomas and university degrees, plumber training is very quick to complete.
You can finish a plumber foundation program in just 36 weeks. After training, you'll be qualified to pursue an apprenticeship, where you will earn money while continuing to build your skills.
Once you complete your apprenticeship, Skilled Trades Ontario will issue you a Certificate of Qualification (C of Q) and you can take the exam to become a certified, registered journeyperson.
3. Positive Career Outlook for Plumbers in Ontario
If you're considering plumber training, you are probably wondering about employment opportunities and long-term career stability for this field.
While there are a fair number of plumbers in Ontario, the latest numbers from the Government of Canada Job Bank show the outlook is still positive for the trade across Ontario. The Job Bank awarded plumber a three-star rating for job opportunities, which is expected to hold for the next few years.
What's driving the positive career outlook for plumbers? Mainly construction development, but also infrastructure investment in water treatment plants and city piping systems.
Additional sources of work for plumbers over the next several years will include:
- New large-scale transit projects that will require plumbers to install pipes and fixtures at stations, terminals, and related facilities
- Growing demand for higher-efficiency plumbing and waste-water systems in residential, commercial buildings, and public schools
- Steady demand for maintenance and repair work within the residential market
Related: Top Pros & Cons of Becoming a Plumber—Is This Trade for You?
4. This Field is Rapidly Evolving with Fascinating New Technology
Demand for higher-tech plumbing fixtures and more eco-friendly plumbing systems is driving some very interesting developments in this field.
There is a flood of new devices coming to market, and plenty of opportunities for plumbers to upgrade their skills and services with innovative new technology.
Examples include "touchless" plumbing fixtures that work with sensors and smartphone-controlled piping systems with integrated leak-alert technology.
Wastewater recycling is another huge trend, with plumbers designing custom systems for reusing "gently used" water through the home and garden. Truly fascinating stuff.
5. Plumber Training Opens up a Range of Career Options
Think you might want to become your own boss one day and start up a plumbing business? Considering specializing in commercial or industrial plumbing?
Drawn to residential work, where you'll get to build long-term relationships with clients in your community?
There are many career options available to you after plumber training. You'll have the chance to try several different fields as you gain experience, and perhaps choose to specialize in a particular niche as you advance in your career.
Related: Residential vs Commercial Plumber Career: 6 Main Differences
Plumbing is about much more than fixing blocked toilets and leaky pipes! There's a whole universe of applications, technologies, and opportunities out there for new plumbers.
Want to learn more about plumber training and careers?
Your next step is to speak with Herzing College admissions. An advisor will guide you through the plumber program, costs, financial aid, how to apply, and more.
Chat live with an advisor now. Or click below to explore the program in more detail. We're here to help!
