Are you in search of the best plumbing schools in Houston? Search no more; I got you covered.
Plumbing is a physically demanding job that entails more than just repairing leaky faucets and unclogging drains.
Plumbers are highly skilled individuals who construct, install, and repair pipes and fixtures. We would not have easy access to water or waste disposal without them.
Furthermore, according to the World Health Organization, plumbers are among the most critical frontline health workers.
Without clean water and effective waste disposal, it would be impossible to maintain health.
Plumbing may not attract many applicants, but there are numerous reasons to pursue this noble profession.
The fact that few people consider it a career option is a benefit in and of itself because it ensures you’ll always have work.
Plumbers are always in high demand, even during economic downturns. Another compelling reason to hire a plumber is the low startup cost.
Plumbing certificate programs are short-term and inexpensive, providing everything you need to start working at the entry-level.
You will be able to earn money while learning through paid internships. When you complete your training, the sky’s the limit regarding your earning potential.
You can improve your skills and become a master plumber or start your own business for more flexibility and financial rewards.
Keep reading to find out the best plumbing schools in Houston.
See Also: 15+ Best Plumbing Schools in Texas
Table of Contents
Are there Plumbing Schools in Houston?
There are many plumbing schools in Houston. Some of these plumbing schools in Houston include:
- Plumbing Training Classes
- Houston Community College
- Plumbers Local 68
- Pipefitters Local 211
- Ashworth College
- Remington College
- Lee College
- Brazosport College
- SBISD – Community Education
- Penn Foster
- Lone Star College
- Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors
You Can Find This Helpful-Â 15 Best Plumbing Schools in San Antonio
How Does One Become a Plumber in Houston?
Here are some steps you must take to become a plumber in Houston, Texas.
Step 1: High School Graduation (or get your GED)
To work as a plumber, you must first complete high school. Being proficient in basic math, geometry, and the metric system will give you an advantage in apprenticeship and employment.
Step 2: Take vocational classes.
Although a college degree is not required to become a plumber in Houston, technical school or college programs geared toward the occupation are highly recommended and will assist you in finding a good apprenticeship program.
Again, this will give you an advantage over your competitors.
Step 3: Finish a Plumbing Apprenticeship Program.
A certified plumbing apprenticeship program in Texas lasts five years and includes 10,000 hours of field/work experience.
Aside from the work component, apprentices must complete 1,225 hours of classroom instruction. To learn more about plumbing apprenticeships in Texas, go to this website: here.
Step 4: Obtain certification
The Journeyman Plumber’s exam is the final step before looking for work. You will need a signed affidavit from the master plumber under whom you apprenticed confirming your work hours. You must also have completed your classroom hours.
Finally, register for and take your exam. After passing this exam, you will be a certified plumber. If you continue your education and work experience, you may be able to become a master plumber and receive special certification.
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What are the Best Plumbing Schools in Houston?
Below are the best plumbing schools in Houston:
#1 Plumbing Training Classes
Plumbing Training Classes is a business in Houston, Texas. This school provides training for one qualification, including Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 10-Hour Certification, through 1 program. This education training takes 10 hours to complete.
The most frequently mentioned benefits of attending Plumbing Training Classes are “Good teachers” and “Affordable,” but respondents also said “Helpful career services” and “Positive environment.”
#2 Houston Community College
Plumbing I and II are combined into one course at Houston Community College. This course will teach you how to correctly apply plumbing-related math calculations, how to use hand and power tools, and proper plumber safety practices.
This course will teach you how to measure and cut plastic pipes, as well as how to groove copper tubes.
You will also learn about the various types of steel pipe fittings, how to measure and cut hangers, and the different kinds of steel pipe support.
Also, you will learn how to select appropriate fixtures and faucets for various installation materials.
Another essential concept covered is the design of the drain-waste-vent system. This course will teach you the skills needed for entry-level plumbing jobs.
A plumber apprenticeship is also available at Houston Community College. The apprenticeship program will provide you with three to five years of on-the-job training and all the skills you will need to succeed in your future career.
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#3 Plumbers Local 68
Plumber and Service & Repair Plumber, Five Year Apprenticeship Programs are available to all parties who qualify through the Houston Area Plumbing Joint Apprenticeship Committee.
Contract provisions between Contractor Associations and Plumbers Local Union No. 68 fund the programs.
This means that contractors who sign a contract with Plumbers Local Union No. 68 agreed to pay an agreed-upon amount for each hour worked by apprentices and journey workers into funds used for apprenticeship and journey worker training.
Apprentices are governed by Standards established by the Joint (Labor and Management) Committee and registered with the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Apprenticeship and Training.
The main benefit is the opportunity to earn money while learning.
#4 Pipefitters Local 211
Pipefitters Local 211 was founded in 1949 and is one of the United Association’s over 300 local unions. Local 211 was founded in Beaumont, Texas, by members of Local 195.
The 5-year classroom and on-the-job training program include instruction in pipefitting, welding, instrumentation, and HVAC service.
The instructors are excellent, and all students receive individual attention and guidance. The training facility is cutting-edge and unparalleled.
Also, Local 211 upholds high standards to ensure that the Contractors receive skilled, efficient, and productive Journeymen with a do-it-right-the-first-time attitude.
#5 Ashworth College
Ashworth is an excellent online plumbing school. This is ideal for those who cannot attend in-person classes but are still interested in working in the plumbing industry.
You can take the course at your own pace and finish it whenever possible. You will learn all of the necessary plumbing knowledge to ensure your success.
A career in this field may necessitate the completion of licensing, training, and other requirements, which vary by vocation and state.
Check with your state, local government, and licensing board to determine which requirements may apply in your state.
#6 Remington College
Remington College is an excellent choice for those interested in technical or vocational fields. The school has the best campus atmosphere, making your studies enjoyable, relaxing, and productive.
The school can be found in many large cities across the country, and the Houston branch offers a wide range of programs and opportunities for growth.
The plumbing program is excellent, and it includes facility maintenance. They offer various levels of instruction, allowing you to begin this career or hone your remaining skills for the license exam.
Read Also: 15 Best Plumbing Schools in Connecticut
#7 Lee College
Lee College is one of Houston’s largest and most well-known educational institutions. The school has a long history and a wealth of experience, making it an excellent place to begin your education.
The campus is beautiful and developed, providing the necessary facilities and resources for a fun and efficient student experience.
Lee College offers a wide range of programs, including plumbing, which is a great place to start a new career.
The program lasts a few months at the entry level, and they will assist you in finding the best apprenticeship program.
#8 Brazosport College
Brazosport College is a fantastic place to begin your education and future career. The college has many excellent partnerships that will provide you with the best opportunities to practice your skills and learn new things.
The curriculum is updated based on market needs, ensuring you learn only the best and most up-to-date information.
The plumbing program is diverse and intense, from pipefitting labs to modern lectures that keep you up to date on the latest technology. Join them in discovering the career of your dreams!
#9 SBISD – Community Education
This Foundations of Plumbing course will teach you and help you understand the fundamentals of plumbing.
This course can be completed on your own time, which is ideal if you have a day job. One hundred forty-five class hours must be completed, possibly finishing in about a year.
Skilled plumbers are in short supply. With an aging infrastructure and a dwindling trade workforce, plumbers have never had a greater need.
Indeed, the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts plumbing jobs will grow faster over the next decade. You could enter and build a scalable career in this high-demand field with the proper training.
If you want to be a plumber, the Foundations of Plumbing course will teach you fundamental, job-ready skills in the plumbing and piping industries.
You’ll learn how to work on modern plumbing systems from in-depth course material developed by industry experts and employers in this self-paced course.
After completing the course, you will have the specialized skills and technical knowledge required to begin a career in plumbing.
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#10 Penn Foster
Penn Foster provides a low-cost online plumbing training program that you can complete at your own pace.
The program can be finished in as little as six months. Their online portal is mobile-friendly, allowing you to learn whenever and wherever it is most convenient. You can access your learning materials at any time.
If you want to work in an in-demand career that allows you to use your troubleshooting skills while providing a valuable service, the online Plumber Career Diploma can help you get started.
With flexible online classes, you can gain industry knowledge at your own pace from the comfort of your home.
#11 Lone Star College
Lone Star College provides a residential plumbing certificate. This is a fast-track program that will provide you with industry training as well as 228 hours of classroom instruction.
You’ll learn everything you need to know about installing and maintaining water, sewage, drainage, and plumbing systems.
This program leads to a certificate from Lone Star College and the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER). NCCER Core – Construction Methods/Materials includes OSHA 10 training.
A plumber specializes in installing and maintaining plumbing systems for potable (drinking) water, sewage, and drainage.
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#12 Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors
PHCC of Texas provides Department of Labor-approved plumbing classes in Houston. When you apply for your plumbing license, this course will qualify you for better incentives than other courses.
The program lasts four years and includes both classroom and on-the-job training.
PHCC Texas is pleased to offer Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners-approved plumbing continuing education and test preparation training.
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How Long Are Plumbing Schools In Houston?
Traditionally, learning and qualifying in a trade like plumbing require years of college, followed by a few years of training and apprenticeships.
When it comes to becoming a qualified plumber, there are numerous paths one can take.
If you are pursuing an NVQ Diploma Level 2, it will typically take you 1 to 2 years to obtain all necessary plumbing qualifications. An apprenticeship typically lasts between 2 and 5 years.
How Much Are Plumbing Schools In Houston?
From one school to the next, as well as from one region to the next, tuition and fees vary. The kind of school, the number of classes, and the course duration will all impact.
Costs for more extended programs and schools that grant degrees will be higher than for individual courses or certificate programs.
For one class, ongoing education, and 4- to 6-week programs inside the state, budget between $200 and $800. The price range for typical courses is $2,000 to $6,000.
Your costs will be higher if you pursue a degree or enroll in a college or university for your education, though. For residents of the state, most degree-granting courses will cost about $25,000.
How Much Do Plumbers Make in Houston?
The average annual salary for a plumber working in Houston, Texas, according to Salary.com, was $59,610.
According to PayScale.com, master plumbers in Houston earned an average of $77,000 in 2020.
Also, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for a plumber working in Texas was $50,320.
Plumbers install and repair piping systems in both residential and commercial buildings. They specialize in water, air, gas, and other piped liquids and gasses.
Plumbers are essential members of a community’s infrastructure. Plumbers can work as independent contractors or as employees of a plumbing company.
Conclusion
Being a plumber is a safe career path. You need the proper education to set yourself up for success.
If you live in Houston, consider these excellent plumbing programs.
FAQs
How do I get a plumbing license in Houston?
You have at least 8,000 documented hours of plumbing work experience. You have completed a 48-hour training course that has been approved.
Can a handyman do plumbing in Houston, Texas?
The only state restrictions are that a handyman cannot work on homes’ plumbing, electrical, or HVAC systems.Â
How much does it cost to get a contractor’s license in Houston, Texas?
Applicants must submit their application and meet the remaining requirements, after which they will be contacted to take the exam. The license application fee is $115.
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