Plumber/Pipefitter at Plumbers & Pipe Fitters JATC Local Union 125
at Plumbers & Pipe Fitters JATC Local Union 125 in Cedar Rapids, IA
About This Program
Plumbers & Pipe Fitters JATC Local Union 125 offers a registered union apprenticeship program in Cedar Rapids, IA. This JATC-sponsored program is jointly managed by labor and management to deliver high-quality, paid training for individuals entering the plumbing and pipefitting trade in the Cedar Rapids area.
The program lasts five years and is built around 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices develop skills in piping system installation, welding, mechanical system maintenance, and code compliance across commercial and industrial job sites. Classroom instruction covers Iowa plumbing codes, safety standards, blueprint reading, and pipe joining techniques.
Graduating apprentices earn journeyman credentials as plumbers/pipefitters, opening access to long-term career opportunities in Iowa's construction and industrial sectors. Union membership through Local 125 provides wages, benefits, and ongoing professional development.
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 Iowa
Plumber/Pipefitters in Iowa are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing.
View full Iowalicensing requirements →Reviews
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