Plumbing is one of the oldest and most respected professional trades in America. That is true because people from all walks of life rely on the skills of plumbers in some way.
One of these skills is installing commercial and residential-grade water, gas, and sewer pipes. They also include commercial and residential-grade pipe maintenance and repair.
Oklahoma relies on plumbing services just as much as any other state. As a result, many people in the state consider careers as plumbers.
If you are one of these people, you will need to understand how plumbers in Oklahoma are trained and licensed.
Take a few minutes to read this article for a thorough overview of the state’s plumbing industry.
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Are there Plumbing Schools in Oklahoma?
There are very few plumbing schools in Oklahoma. These plumbing schools include:
- Mid-Del Technology Center
- Wes Watkins Technology Center
- Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 344 Training Center
- Alison
- NexTech Academy
- Tulsa Pipe Trades Training School
- Central Tech
How Does One Become A Plumber in Oklahoma?
The Oklahoma Construction Industries Board (CIB) is in charge of establishing state standards for working plumbers.
All licensing for apprentice plumbers is provided by the CIB. It also gives experienced plumbers two types of licenses:
- Plumbing journeyman
- Plumbing contractor
You must register with the CIB to work as an apprentice or plumbing helper in Oklahoma. A licensed journeyman or contractor must also supervise you.
Every hour you work at this level will help you meet the requirements for working as a journeyman plumber.
Journeymen are permitted to work as supervisors on plumbing jobs but cannot own their businesses.
The main requirements for a journeyman’s license can be met in various ways. You have the following options:
- Working for at least three years as a registered apprentice
- Gaining comparable experience while serving in the military
- Having a current out-of-state license that meets Oklahoma’s requirements.
You can also substitute a diploma from a CIB-approved plumber training program for part of your practical experience requirement. With your credentials in order, you can take your plumbing journeyman’s exam.
Plumbing contractors in Oklahoma can run their businesses and hire other plumbers. A journeyman’s license is required to work as a contractor. You must also work as a journeyman for at least one year.
What are the Best Plumbing Schools in Oklahoma?
If you want to become a plumber or improve your plumbing skills in Oklahoma, consider attending one of the plumbing schools listed below.
1. Mid-Del Technology Center
The Mid-Del Technology Center is one of Oklahoma’s largest and most prestigious places to begin a technological career.
The center offers the best technical programs and classes to provide a modern and comprehensive education.
The facilities and equipment are cutting-edge and will assist you in reaching your full potential.
The plumbing apprenticeship program lasts approximately 900 hours. The program costs USD 2250 in total, not including supplies. You’ll be ready to start a new, high-paying, exciting career in just a few months.
2. Wes Watkins Technology Center
The Wes Watkins Technology Center, which is dynamic and modern, provides the most comprehensive program diversity for technology enthusiasts.
The center will assist you in your quest for knowledge and new skills and in finding a new job promptly.
All the teachers have extensive experience in their respective fields and will assist you with anything you require.
The plumbing program provides dynamic training and exciting classes to help you advance your career.
The fundamentals of plumbing are completed in a matter of months and fully prepare you for the apprenticeship program.
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3. Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 344 Training Center
The Plumbers and Pipefitters Joint Apprenticeship and Training Program were established in 1953 due to a collaboration between the Union and the Contractors Association.
This traditional educational system, established by their forefathers, is still effective in preparing individuals for the trade.
In Oklahoma City, Local 344 provides paid apprentice training. The training program lasts five years and provides the necessary background to work as a journeyman.
Every year of the program, your salary rises. The program operates under well-defined laws and regulations designed to protect the apprentice while providing education and training that meets the industry’s highest standards.
After completing the program, the individual will have obtained the necessary licenses to work legally in the plumbing and pipefitting industries.
4. Alison
Alison’s accessible online Introduction to Plumbing course teaches you the skills you need to get started in the plumbing industry.
Can you imagine living without access to clean water and basic sanitation? Plumbers and other plumbing professionals ensure that the plumbing needs are always met.
This course will teach you how to install pipes and plumbing fixtures, as well as how to maintain drainage.
Alison offers a variety of online plumbing courses for those interested in learning the trade. They provide an introduction to plumbing as well as a plumbing diploma. You can work at your own pace before you know it.
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5. NexTech Academy
NexTech provides plumbing education online. You can work through the modules at your own pace and finish them in 18 to 24 months. You can take a trial course to see if the program is right for you.
Students pursuing a plumbing career through NexTech Academy begin by learning the fundamentals of plumbing and safety, then progress to training in drain systems, vents, water lines, and fixture installation.
Also, troubleshooting, hydronic and solar water heating systems, private wells and septic systems, and plumbing system design and installation are all covered in advanced coursework.
Each subject is divided into modules: reading, interactive exercises, quizzes, videos, and skill demonstrations.
The Nexstar Service System is woven throughout the curriculum, preparing students to communicate trust and technical expertise to homeowners.
6. Tulsa Pipe Trades Training School
Tulsa Pipe Trades Training School offers five-year plumbing and pipe fitting apprenticeship.
During the day, you will work with a certified contractor and then attend a three-hour class two nights a week for 216 class hours.
The apprenticeship program lasts five years and is designed for plumbers, pipefitters, welders, and HVAC/REF technicians.
The Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee selects apprentices from among applicants through a selection procedure.
Interview sessions are used to rate and rank applicants. A set number of apprentices from among the top-ranked applicants before interviews.
Those applications that are not chosen are placed on a list of eligibles for two years, to be accessed if a need for more apprentices arises.
7. Central Tech
In this class, you will learn how to use hand and power tools, read construction drawings, and understand code requirements as you develop your plumbing skills.
Your knowledge of construction math will help you measure pipe fittings and use framing squares.
The emphasis on safety will enable you to obtain OSHA-10, fall protection, and confined space certifications.
You will learn when and how to use various pipes and fittings, such as:
- plastic,
- copper,
- cast iron, and
- carbon steel.
You will also discuss drain and vent sizing, grade, and waste treatment.
You will study insulation, installation, and testing methods as you learn to read commercial drawings and structural penetrations.
Then, while learning about electricity, water heaters, and fuel gas systems, you will install fixtures, valves, and faucets.
Finally, you will learn to diagnose and repair sewage pumps, sump pumps, hydronic and solar heating systems, private water supplies, swimming pools, and hot tubs to service plumbing issues.
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How Long are Plumbing Schools in Oklahoma?
A Journeyman Plumber License in Oklahoma necessitates at least four years of on-the-job experience or 8,000 hours.
After working as a journeyman for a year, candidates may apply for the master plumber’s examination.
Every educational institution offers different programs for varying lengths of time, but four years is the average.
This four-year practical course will teach you basic plumbing skills, allowing you to begin your career in one of the world’s most important industries.
How Much are Plumbing Schools in Oklahoma?
Tuition and fees vary according to the school and region. The type of school, number of classes, and course duration will all have an impact.
Longer courses and universities will cost more than a single class or certificate program.
A single class, continuing education, and 4- to 6-week programs within the state will cost you between $200 and $800. Ordinary courses are priced between $2,000 and $6,000.
If you are pursuing a degree or attending a college or university for education, your fees will be higher. Most degree-granting courses will cost about $25,000 for in-state residents.
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How Much Do Plumbers Make in Oklahoma?
The average licensed plumber in Oklahoma earns nearly $56,000 per year. This is almost $5,000 less than the national average for the field.
Most plumbers in the state earn between $43,000 and $63,000 per year. Newly licensed plumbers can earn less than $28,000 per year. On the other hand, the top pay for Oklahoma plumbers, on average, exceeds $88,000.
Plumbing, pipe fitting, and steam fitting are in the early stages of a projected 14 percent growth decade.
This increased employment level far exceeds the national average for all professions in the United States.
What does this mean for you as a plumber in Oklahoma? Because life is unpredictable, no one can guarantee you future employment.
However, the robust growth in your industry suggests that qualified plumbers will continue to be in high demand.
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Conclusion
To become a plumber in Oklahoma, you must progress through the various levels of requirements and licensure, beginning with an apprenticeship and progressing to working as a journeyman and, finally, becoming a plumbing contractor.
Also, to become an Oklahoma plumber, you must be certified by the Oklahoma Construction Industries Board, just as you would become an Oklahoma electrician or Oklahoma general contractor.
I hope you find this article helpful.
FAQs
Do you need to be qualified to be a plumber in Oklahoma?
Working in plumbing requires a high level of skill. As a result, you will need specific skills, training, and possibly some certification to work as a plumber.
What subjects are needed for plumbing in Oklahoma?
There are no required subjects for plumbing. However, it is recommended that you take the following: English. Mathematical Literacy OR Pure Mathematics Orientation in Life
How many levels are there in plumbing in Oklahoma?
There are three levels of plumbing, but you must be at least a journeyman to start your own plumbing business.
How much does an apprentice plumber make in Oklahoma?
In Oklahoma, the average annual salary for an apprentice plumber is $33,000. Apprentice plumber salaries in Oklahoma can range from $19,000 to $51,500 and are determined by various factors such as skills, experience, employer, bonuses, tips, and more.
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