Are you in search of the best plumbing schools in Ohio? Search no more; we’ve got you covered.
This article fully reviews the best plumbing schools in Ohio, including the requirements, cost & how to apply to these schools.
In recent years, an increasing number of Americans in Ohio have expressed interest in attending a plumbing or vocational school, owing to their affordability.
Plumbing schools have unique benefits and strengths that traditional four-year colleges and universities do not always have, even though many others have preconceived notions or stereotypes about them.
The good news for Ohio students fresh out of high school or adult learners who want to learn a new skill or enter a new industry is that the state of Ohio has an abundance of trade and vocational schools that offer an excellent array of certificates, diplomas, and even associate degree programs.
Plumbing systems are found in almost every American home and are an important part of modern life that many of us take for granted. As a result, those in the plumbing trade make up an important part of the country’s workforce.
Those who want to work in the plumbing industry will be pleased to learn that jobs pay well and that demand increases yearly across the country.
So if you are interested in becoming a plumber and need a school to acquire the skills, this article will guide you through knowing the plumbing schools in Ohio.
See Also: 15 Best Plumbing Schools In Colorado|Requirements
Table of Contents
Is Plumbing a Good Career Path in Ohio?
The trend for job prospects in plumbing is also positive, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimating that the figure for plumbing-related employment will rise to 21% by 2023. Those who want to work in the plumbing industry must complete an apprenticeship before becoming journeyman. After significant work experience, the final step is often acquiring a master’s-level license.
As a plumber in Ohio, you can start your own business and work as an independent contractor. Alternatively, you can look for employers in Ohio or elsewhere who need your plumbing skills.
According to the BLS, the most common employer for plumbers is plumbing, heating, and air-conditioning contractors. You could also work directly for a manufacturer, government, or construction company. Plumbers in Ohio earn a good living. You can begin immediately by receiving paid on-the-job training from a professional plumber or enrolling in an educational program.
Are there Plumbing Schools in Ohio?
- Ashland County-West Holmes Career Center
- Cuyahoga Community College
- Plumbers Training Institute
- Columbus State Community College
- Owens Community College
- PHCC of Ohio
- Portage Lakes Career Center
- Marion Technical College
- Lorain County Community College
- Sinclair Community College
- Great Oaks Institute
- Eastland-Fairfield Career & Technical School
- Cincinnati Master Plumbers Association
- PACON Plumbing School
- APHC of Central Ohio
How to Become a Licensed Plumber in Ohio?
To become a licensed plumber in Ohio, you must first take and pass an exam administered by the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board.
The following requirements apply to the application:
- You must be over the age of 18.
- You must be a legal resident of the United States or a U.S. citizen (must provide proof)
- You have been a tradesperson in the plumbing trade for at least five years before the date of application. You can demonstrate the last five years as a tradesperson working under a licensed contractor on projects requiring a permit.
- You must attach at least one permit from the previous five years and provide the license number of the contractor with whom you worked.
- Be an Ohio-registered engineer with three years of business experience in the plumbing trade.
- Other experience, as defined in OAC 4101:16-3-02, may be acceptable to the appropriate section of the board.
- S.B. 337 requires that you have never been convicted of a disqualifying offense.
How To Renew Your Plumbing License in Ohio
Ohio requires you to renew your state-issued license yearly or every three years to keep it current. It will cost $60 to renew for one year or $180 for three years. The three-year plan could eliminate the need to fill out the renewal request on the OCILB website every year.
You must complete eight hours of continuing education every year. Half of those hours can be completed online at your leisure.
The remaining half must be completed in a classroom setting. A video conference setting with an instructor qualifies as in-person training. The board must approve the continuing education classes.
How Much Do Plumbers Make in Ohio?
Plumbers in Ohio earn an average annual salary of $55,153 (with a salary range of $47,971 to $63,098), with hourly rates averaging $22 in the state. The hourly rate is slightly lower than the national average. Still, it’s worth noting that plumbers in the Cincinnati area are generally paid more than those in other cities in the state, with the average being $26.20 an hour.
Salary ranges can vary greatly depending on the city and other important factors, such as education, certifications, additional skills, and the number of years you have worked in your field.
How Long is Plumbing School in Ohio?
Training at a trade school typically takes two years. Meanwhile, apprenticeships can last anywhere from two to five years, depending on the program.
The advantages of a trade school include greater flexibility in where you work after training and more control over your education. On the other hand, an apprenticeship is typically sponsored by a union or a business. While this route may provide less flexibility, you will have paid training opportunities. Either option is an efficient method of learning how to become a plumber.
15 Best Plumbing Schools in Ohio
After thorough research, rankings, reviews, and value offers, we have curated a list of the best plumbing schools in Ohio from the best MOOC platforms online.
Below is the list of the best plumbing schools.
#1. Ashland County-West Holmes Career Center
The Ashland County-West Holmes Career Center provides a plumbing program that will teach you what you need to know through hands-on classes, allowing you to find immediate and fulfilling opportunities in the real world.
You will discover what you enjoy doing with a group of like-minded peers—people who understand you—so that you can take pleasure and pride in your work after you finish school.
If you intend to attend college, you will have the skills necessary to obtain a well-paying job on your way to something even better.
The Ashland County-West Holmes Career Center provides a 600-hour plumbing training program that covers international, uniform, and national plumbing codes.
#2. Community College
The apprenticeship prepares students for journey-level plumbing positions and an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Applied Industrial Technology.
A five-year apprenticeship focuses on the skill set needed to be a highly skilled craftsman. An apprentice will learn to install, repair, maintain, and service piping systems, plumbing systems, and equipment used to distribute drinking (potable) water, sanitary storm water systems, and waste disposal.
Additional opportunities for plumbers include technical installations for medical gas, hydronic in-floor heating, solar panels, heat pumps, cross-connection control, and other systems required for public health and safety.
Read More: Best Plumbing Schools In Arizona|Ranking
#3. Plumbers Training Institute
The Plumbers Training Institute is a premier provider of online plumbing education and training. We strive to raise the bar for online teaching through innovative course design and timely topics.
The Plumbers Training Institute is committed to providing high-quality courses to construction trade professionals across the country. The institute develops courses that meet specific licensing requirements and helps our construction students advance their careers.
Plumbers Training Institute’s in-house licensing experts collaborate with state entities to ensure our courses meet state requirements and prepare you for exams. Experts from around the country come to the Traverse City office to record courses in the in-house studio.
#4. Columbus State Community College
Students attend Columbus State Community College to further their education and better their lives. Columbus State Community College strives to help all students complete a degree or certificate in plumbing and move on to a four-year institution or the workforce.
Columbus State Community College creates a supportive learning environment through equitable and inclusive practices. And the college uses data to make strategic decisions to improve outcomes and help more students graduate at each stage of their journey, from connection to entry, progress, and completion to transition to the workforce or a four-year institution.
Read More: 15 Best Plumbing Schools In Missouri|Requirements
#5. Owens Community College
According to an audit process, students who completed apprenticeships in plumbing/pipefitting and sheet metal and ironwork could qualify for certificates in welding and plumbing/pipefitting.
In practice, the OCC Apprenticeship Program identified 153 students who finished their plumbing or pipefitting apprenticeships by May 2020. The names of those students were forwarded to the OCC Records Department, which determined whether these apprentices met the requirements for any of the designated credentials.
#6. PHCC of Ohio
PHCC, the premier organization for p-h-c professionals, provides legislative advocacy, education, and training to approximately 3,300 plumbing and HVAC open shops, union businesses, and 65,000 technicians. Members of the PHCC work in the residential, commercial, new construction, industrial, and service and repair segments of the construction industry.
Members of the PHCC have access to a wide range of resources and services, enhancing their reputation as the best choice for professionalism, dependable products, and knowledgeable service, as well as a proud protector of public health, safety, and the environment.
The Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association is committed to advancing and educating the plumbing and HVACR industries to benefit society’s health, safety, welfare, and environmental protection.
Read More: 15 Best Plumbing Schools In Louisiana|Requirements
#7. Portage Lakes Career Center
Uniontown, Ohio’s Portage Lakes Career Center (PLCC) residential and light commercial plumbing school. You’ll get hands-on experience in a modern learning environment with all-inclusive tuition and convenient evening hours for plumbing classes.
The plumbing school instructor at PLCC is a certified teacher and an experienced plumber who shares their real-world experience with the students. You’ll learn plumbing tools and safety, plumbing code and mathematics, proper assembly of various piping systems, plumbing system installation, blueprint reading, and essential HVAC principles during your plumbing classes.
As a PLCC plumbing technology student, you will also participate in various hands-on labs and activities.
#8. Marion Technical College
Marion Technical College is a public college in Marion Township, Ohio. It is a small university with 480 undergraduate students enrolled.
Marion Tech has a 100% acceptance rate. Plumbing, business, liberal arts and humanities, and nursing are all popular majors. Marion Tech graduates earn a starting salary of $26,600, accounting for 34% of students.
The College Graduate Competencies (CGCs) have been identified by the Faculty Assessment Committee in six areas. These CGCs are communicated to students through the following statement on every course syllabus: MTC believes that all graduates should have a standard set of skills regardless of significance.
The mission of Marion Technical College is to provide the most accessible, supportive, and personal path to career success in the region.
Read More: 15 Best Plumbing Schools In Maine|Requirements
#9. Lorain County Community College
Lorain County Community College provides practical, affordable, career-focused education. And the college is doing it on a safe, approachable, energetic, and enjoyable campus.
Lorain is committed to your success and is honored to have been named the top community college in the country for Excellence in Student Success by the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC).
Whether you want a four-year or advanced degree, an associate degree to get your foot in the door, specific skills for your current job, a return to the workforce, a career change, or lifelong learning to satisfy your intellectual curiosity. Your community college is LCCC.
#10. Sinclair Community College
Sinclair Community College is an excellent choice for your future career, with outstanding programs and classes. The programs are highly diverse, focusing on real-world skills and knowledge that will help you land the job of your dreams. Furthermore, the college has fantastic campus facilities and is the ideal place to unwind during your studies.
The plumbing program will prepare you for a fantastic career in theory and practice. The college will also direct you to the ideal apprenticeship program and assist you in beginning an exciting career path.
#11. Great Oaks Institute
Great Oaks Institute of Technology and Career Development plumbing program has assisted countless students and technology enthusiasts to launch successful careers.
The institute carefully selected the best trainers and teachers to provide the best plumbing experience for the students. With its upgrading programs and classes, the institute will also help you advance your career.
Plumbing training is among the best trade programs in terms of job opportunities. It is relatively quick to complete and prepares students for any challenge or opportunity.
Read More: Best Plumbing Schools In Canada For International Students|
#12. Eastland-Fairfield Career & Technical School
The Plumbing program is a 720-hour certificate course that is completed full-time. This program combines classroom, laboratory, and hands-on learning experiences to prepare students to install, repair, and maintain residential, commercial, and industrial plumbing systems.
The theory and application of basic principles relevant to installing and servicing various plumbing systems; learning the identity and application of various fittings, valves, and fixtures; using technical reference manuals; diagnosing malfunctions; overhauling, repairing, and adjusting valves and parts in pumps, pipes, tubing, valves, springs, and connections; repairing electric controlled fixtures and valves; and plumbing
#13. Cincinnati Master Plumbers Association
The Cincinnati Master Plumbers Association (CMPA) was founded in 1881. The mission of the CMPA is to unite the area’s professional plumbers in promoting their trade.
Through its Plumbing Apprenticeship Program, Backflow Certification and Recertification classes, Ohio and Kentucky CEU classes, Educational Monthly Membership Meetings, and Monthly Newsletter, CMPA is here to improve further the training of PHC industry apprentices, journeymen, and contractors.
CMPA is affiliated with the PHCC of Ohio and the National PHCC associations.
#14. PACON Plumbing School
PACON Plumbing School specializes in “Plumbing Apprenticeship,” “Backflow Tester Certification,” and “Ohio Contractors Continuing Education” training.
The states approve Ohio and Indiana’s plumbing apprenticeship training program, the Ohio Department of Commerce supports the backflow tester certification, and the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board approves the contractor’s continuing education.
Richard Ventura founded PACON in 1977 as the Plumbing Apprenticeship Council of Norwood to provide practical and comprehensive training for the plumbing trades in Ohio.
Read More: 15 Best Plumbing Schools In California|Requirements
#15. APHC of Central Ohio
The Association of Plumbing and Hydronic Contractors (APHC) provides educational services and member benefits to its contractors and associates, mainly through the operation of a Plumbing Apprenticeship School that provides quality training for its members’ employees. Another primary goal is to provide a platform for its members to speak with one voice to the appropriate governing bodies about construction issues.
How Much Do Plumbing Schools Cost in Ohio?
To become a plumber in Ohio, expect to pay between $1,000 and $18,000 in tuition and materials. Your total cost will be determined by the location of your school, whether you attend part-time or full-time, and how long it takes you to complete the program.
Plumbing school costs vary greatly depending on the program and whether it is public or private. Because tuition rates are not regulated, it is critical to factor in all costs when budgeting for a plumbing school in Ohio.
Plumbing Schools in Ohio FAQ
How long does Ohio plumbing school last?
It will take at least five years to complete the required classroom and hands-on training to sit for the licensing exam. Community colleges are not uncommon to offer plumbing degree programs in conjunction with a closely related field such as gas technology or heating.
How can you tell if an Ohio contractor is licensed?
Go to their website to access the Ohio Department of Commerce’s search database. You can look up information and verify the license of Ohio contractors here.
How much does an Ohio Union plumber make?
The 25th percentile salary is $45,831. Salaries below this are considered outliers. The 75th percentile salary is $78,371.
Conclusion
Plumbing may be a hands-on industry that necessitates formal training for professionals. Most plumbers begin their careers as apprentices. Although not required, a university degree or training program can help you stand out from the crowd and land an apprenticeship.
Plumbers handle an excellent range of professional tasks, including repairing and maintaining sinks, toilets, tubs, and fixtures in residential settings, water pipelines, HVAC systems, waste management sites, and gas lines.
You can work as a plumber in specialized plumbing companies, on your own, or maybe start your own business.
References
- www.onlineschoolscenter.com–
- www.servicetitan.com–
- plumbertrainingcenter.com–
- blog.franchise.neighborly.com–
- www.tradeschoolexplorer.org
Our Recommendation
