Plumber/Pipefitter at INDIANAPOLIS PLUMBERS & STEAMFITTERS J.A.T.C. (UA Local 440)
at INDIANAPOLIS PLUMBERS & STEAMFITTERS J.A.T.C. (UA Local 440) in Indianapolis, IN
About This Program
The Indianapolis Plumbers & Steamfitters J.A.T.C. (UA Local 440) sponsors this registered union apprenticeship program in Indianapolis, IN. Affiliated with the United Association, this JATC program is one of the region's most established pathways into the plumbing and steamfitting trade, offering union-backed training with strong industry recognition.
This five-year program includes 8,000 hours of paid on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices train on commercial, industrial, and residential projects, learning pipe system installation, steam and process piping, welding techniques, system testing, and mechanical system maintenance. Classroom instruction addresses trade mathematics, code compliance, safety standards, and blueprint reading, following the UA's nationally recognized curriculum.
Graduates receive journey-level status through UA Local 440, a credential respected throughout the industry. Union membership provides access to established wage scales, health benefits, pension plans, and continued training opportunities — making this apprenticeship one of the most comprehensive investments a new tradesperson can make in Indianapolis.
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.
How to Apply
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 Indiana
Plumber/Pipefitters in Indiana are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Indiana Professional Licensing Agency, Plumbing Commission.
View full Indianalicensing requirements →Reviews
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