Plumber/Pipefitter at Broward County Plumbers & Pipefitters, JATC
at Broward County Plumbers & Pipefitters, JATC in Fort Lauderdale, FL
About This Program
The Broward County Plumbers & Pipefitters JATC offers a registered union apprenticeship program in Fort Lauderdale, FL. Jointly administered by labor and management, this JATC program provides paid, structured training for individuals pursuing careers in plumbing and pipefitting in South Florida's dynamic construction market.
The program lasts five years and includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices gain practical experience on commercial and residential job sites, working with a variety of piping systems including water supply, drainage, gas, and fire protection. Classroom instruction covers Florida plumbing codes, safety standards, welding, and system diagnostics.
Graduates earn journeyman credentials upon completion, enabling them to work independently on a wide range of projects throughout Broward County and beyond. Union membership through the JATC provides access to competitive wages, benefits, and long-term career support.
Wage & Training
Journeyman Wage
$30
OJT Hours
8,000
RTI Hours
576
Duration
5 years
Wage data is the national median for this occupation (BLS, May 2023), not specific to this program.
Plumber Career Outlook
National Median
$30.46/hr
~$63,356.8/yr
Apprentice Start
$15/hr
Earn while you learn
Job Outlook
Plumber employment is projected to grow steadily, driven by new construction, building renovation, and the need to replace aging water infrastructure. Water efficiency regulations and green building standards are creating additional demand for skilled plumbers. The trade consistently ranks among the hardest positions for employers to fill, indicating strong job security.
What to Expect as a Plumber/Pipefitter Apprentice
Duration
5 years of combined on-the-job training and classroom instruction
On-the-Job Training
~32 hours/week of hands-on work under journeyman supervision (8,000 total hours)
Classroom Instruction
576 hours of related technical instruction (~115 hours/year)
Paid Training
You earn a wage from day one, starting at a percentage of the journeyman rate and increasing as you progress
Time-based program: You'll progress through the program based on completing a set number of hours in both on-the-job training and classroom instruction.
This is a union-affiliated program. Union apprenticeships typically offer strong benefits packages, pension contributions, and structured career advancement through the local hall.
Trade School vs. Apprenticeship for Plumber
Apprenticeship
Trade School
Licensing in Florida
Plumber/Pipefitters in Florida are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board.
View full Floridalicensing requirements →Reviews
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