Plumber/Pipefitter at Monroe Plumbers and Pipefitter JATC

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipUnionPaid Training

at Monroe Plumbers and Pipefitter JATC in Monroe, MI

About This Program

The Monroe Plumbers and Pipefitter JATC offers a union-affiliated plumber/pipefitter apprenticeship based in Monroe, MI. Sponsored by the Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee, this program provides a structured path into the plumbing and pipefitting trade for individuals who want to earn a wage while building a career in the skilled trades.

This five-year, time-based apprenticeship includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work alongside experienced journeymen learning pipe installation, system layout, blueprint reading, soldering, welding, and the proper handling of water, gas, and steam systems. Classroom instruction covers trade theory, safety standards, and applicable codes.

Upon completing the program, apprentices earn journeyman status — a recognized credential in the plumbing and pipefitting industry. Journeyman plumbers and pipefitters are in consistent demand across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors, and union membership through the JATC provides additional benefits and job placement support.

Wage & Training

Journeyman Wage

$30

BLS 2023

OJT Hours

8,000

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

RTI Hours

576

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

Duration

5 years

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

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

Cost$0 (earn while you learn)
Duration5 years
Starting wage$15.00/hr
Journeyman wage$30.46/hr
CredentialJourneyman card

Trade School

Cost$5,000–$20,000+
Duration6–24 months
Starting wageEntry-level
ExperienceHands-on labs
CredentialCertificate / diploma

Licensing in Michigan

Plumber/Pipefitters 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 →

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