Plumber/Pipefitter at JATC Plumbers and Steamfitters Richmond Virginia - Local 10
at JATC Plumbers and Steamfitters Richmond Virginia - Local 10 in Richmond, VA
About This Program
The JATC Plumbers and Steamfitters Richmond Virginia — Local 10 sponsors a union Plumber/Pipefitter apprenticeship in Richmond, VA. As a Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC) program, this apprenticeship is backed by the resources and standards of the United Association, offering apprentices access to union wages, benefits, and a nationally recognized credential. Apprentices are paid from the first day of work.
The program spans five years and includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training alongside 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work under experienced journey workers learning pipefitting, steam systems, hydronic heating, medical gas, and plumbing installation. Classroom coursework covers trade math, blueprint reading, pipefitting theory, and safety standards including OSHA requirements.
Graduates earn journey-level status in the United Association, positioning them for long-term careers in commercial, industrial, and institutional construction. Union membership through Local 10 provides access to collective bargaining agreements, health benefits, and a pension — making this one of the most comprehensive training paths available in central Virginia.
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 Virginia
Plumber/Pipefitters in Virginia are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Virginia Board for Contractors, Tradesman Program.
View full Virginialicensing requirements →Reviews
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