Sprinkler Fitter at Detroit Sprinklerfitters Local 704 JAC
at Detroit Sprinklerfitters Local 704 JAC in Farmington, MI
About This Program
The Detroit Sprinklerfitters Local 704 JAC offers a union Sprinkler Fitter apprenticeship based in Farmington, MI. Sponsored by a Joint Apprenticeship Committee (JATC), this program provides apprentices with structured, paid training in the installation and maintenance of fire suppression systems across commercial, industrial, and residential settings.
The apprenticeship runs five years and combines 8,000 hours of on-the-job training with 576 hours of related technical instruction. On the job, apprentices learn to read blueprints, install sprinkler heads and piping, test system pressure, and troubleshoot fire protection equipment. Classroom instruction covers hydraulics, fire codes, system design, and safety standards.
Upon completing the program, graduates earn journeyman status as Sprinkler Fitters — a skilled credential recognized across the fire protection industry. As a union program, apprentices benefit from negotiated wages that increase progressively throughout training, along with access to union benefits and a career backed by the United Association trade network.
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 Sprinkler Fitter 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 Michigan
Sprinkler Fitters in Michigan are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Bureau of Construction Codes.
View full Michiganlicensing requirements →Reviews
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