Plumber/Pipefitter at Plumbers & Pipefitters Loc 502
at Plumbers & Pipefitters Loc 502 in Louisville, KY
About This Program
Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 502 sponsors this registered Plumber/Pipefitter apprenticeship program based in Louisville, KY. This employer-sponsored program provides a structured, five-year training path for individuals looking to enter the plumbing and pipefitting trade in one of Kentucky's largest and most active construction markets.
The program includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction over five years. Apprentices gain hands-on experience installing and maintaining pipe systems for water, gas, steam, and drainage across residential, commercial, and industrial projects in the Louisville area. Classroom instruction introduces trade theory, plumbing and pipefitting codes, safety practices, mathematics, and blueprint reading to develop well-rounded, competent tradespeople.
Graduates of this program are recognized as journey-level plumbers and pipefitters, ready to take on skilled work throughout Louisville and the surrounding Kentucky region. With strong construction activity in the area, graduates are well-positioned to build a stable, in-demand career in the mechanical trades upon completing their apprenticeship.
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.
Trade School vs. Apprenticeship for Plumber
Apprenticeship
Trade School
Licensing in Kentucky
Plumber/Pipefitters in Kentucky are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction, Division of Plumbing.
View full Kentuckylicensing requirements →Reviews
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