5 answers
TristanJohn
Student
Anoka, Minnesota
1
Question
Updated
4767 views
how long do you have to go to trade school to be and electrician/ plumber? And if you did a apprenticeship how long did you do it for?
I am looking into trades because they are useful skills that i can use for the rest of my life and i can also make money if i am good at it. I would like to know the full extent of what i will need to do to prepare for my future job.
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5 answers
James Snyder
Electrician
1
Answer
Wasilla, Alaska
Updated
James’s Answer
Hi Tristan
I’m an electrician in the navy and I never went to trade school. I’ve worked on cable ways, generators, motor, controllers for equipment and a ton more. I’m using what I learn here to further my knowledge and when I get out be a residential electrician. Highly recommend the free education!
I’m an electrician in the navy and I never went to trade school. I’ve worked on cable ways, generators, motor, controllers for equipment and a ton more. I’m using what I learn here to further my knowledge and when I get out be a residential electrician. Highly recommend the free education!
Thank you!
TristanJohn
Justin Bacon
11
Answers
Updated
Justin’s Answer
I started as an apprentice with no training. Then I went to the apprentice school my county in PA required. The school was 4 years since it was nonunion, the union school is 5 years which you learn med gas. I had to work as a journeyman plumber for two years before I could take the rest to become a master.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6333
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Tristan,
To become an electrician or plumber through trade school or apprenticeship, the duration and requirements can vary depending on the specific program or state regulations.
Trade School for Electricians:
Duration: Trade schools typically offer programs that last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years, depending on the depth of the curriculum and whether it leads to a certificate, diploma, or associate degree.
Curriculum: Trade school programs for electricians cover topics such as electrical theory, wiring techniques, blueprint reading, electrical code regulations, safety practices, and hands-on training.
Licensing: After completing a trade school program, aspiring electricians usually need to obtain a license by passing an exam that tests their knowledge and skills.
Trade School for Plumbers:
Duration: Plumbing trade school programs can range from 6 months to 2 years in length, with a focus on practical skills and theoretical knowledge.
Curriculum: Plumbing trade school courses cover areas like pipefitting, drainage systems, water supply systems, plumbing codes, safety procedures, and hands-on training in installation and repair.
Licensing: Plumbers are typically required to be licensed, which involves passing an exam and meeting experience requirements set by state licensing boards.
Apprenticeship Programs:
Duration: Apprenticeships for electricians and plumbers usually last around 4-5 years and combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction.
Structure: Apprentices work under the supervision of experienced professionals while earning a wage. They gradually take on more responsibilities as they gain skills and knowledge.
Licensing: Upon completing an apprenticeship, individuals often need to pass a licensing exam to become fully qualified electricians or plumbers.
Preparing for Your Future Job:
Research: Explore different trade schools and apprenticeship programs to find one that aligns with your career goals.
Education: Focus on math and science courses in high school to build a strong foundation for technical training.
Hands-On Experience: Consider volunteering or working part-time in related fields to gain practical experience.
Networking: Connect with professionals in the industry to learn about job opportunities and get advice on how to succeed in the field.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS provides detailed information on the requirements, job outlook, and salary potential for electricians and plumbers in the United States.
National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA): NECA offers resources on electrical apprenticeships, training programs, and industry standards for aspiring electricians.
Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC): PHCC provides insights into plumbing apprenticeships, licensing requirements, and professional development opportunities for plumbers.
GOD BLESS!
James.
To become an electrician or plumber through trade school or apprenticeship, the duration and requirements can vary depending on the specific program or state regulations.
Trade School for Electricians:
Duration: Trade schools typically offer programs that last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years, depending on the depth of the curriculum and whether it leads to a certificate, diploma, or associate degree.
Curriculum: Trade school programs for electricians cover topics such as electrical theory, wiring techniques, blueprint reading, electrical code regulations, safety practices, and hands-on training.
Licensing: After completing a trade school program, aspiring electricians usually need to obtain a license by passing an exam that tests their knowledge and skills.
Trade School for Plumbers:
Duration: Plumbing trade school programs can range from 6 months to 2 years in length, with a focus on practical skills and theoretical knowledge.
Curriculum: Plumbing trade school courses cover areas like pipefitting, drainage systems, water supply systems, plumbing codes, safety procedures, and hands-on training in installation and repair.
Licensing: Plumbers are typically required to be licensed, which involves passing an exam and meeting experience requirements set by state licensing boards.
Apprenticeship Programs:
Duration: Apprenticeships for electricians and plumbers usually last around 4-5 years and combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction.
Structure: Apprentices work under the supervision of experienced professionals while earning a wage. They gradually take on more responsibilities as they gain skills and knowledge.
Licensing: Upon completing an apprenticeship, individuals often need to pass a licensing exam to become fully qualified electricians or plumbers.
Preparing for Your Future Job:
Research: Explore different trade schools and apprenticeship programs to find one that aligns with your career goals.
Education: Focus on math and science courses in high school to build a strong foundation for technical training.
Hands-On Experience: Consider volunteering or working part-time in related fields to gain practical experience.
Networking: Connect with professionals in the industry to learn about job opportunities and get advice on how to succeed in the field.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS provides detailed information on the requirements, job outlook, and salary potential for electricians and plumbers in the United States.
National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA): NECA offers resources on electrical apprenticeships, training programs, and industry standards for aspiring electricians.
Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC): PHCC provides insights into plumbing apprenticeships, licensing requirements, and professional development opportunities for plumbers.
GOD BLESS!
James.
Thank you for the advice, James Constantine.
TristanJohn
Lee Beardsley
Engineer
1
Answer
Las Vegas, Nevada
Updated
Lee’s Answer
The normal apprenticeship programs are either a 4 year or 5 year program.
Andrew Parker
Plbing
1
Answer
Bozeman, Montana
Updated
Andrew’s Answer
I am an apprentice plumber in Montana. I believe it differs from state to state. Here in MT. the apprenticeship is a mix between eight books ranging from math to connecting pipes, codes, and installing mechanical systems. The total number of hours to qualify to take the journeyman's test is 7500, or roughly depending 4 to 5 years. Its all about getting the books done then concentrating on the overtime hours.