Plumber/Pipefitter at Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 51
at Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 51 in East Providence, RI
About This Program
Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 51 in East Providence, Rhode Island offers a union-affiliated, JATC-administered Plumber/Pipefitter apprenticeship. As a union program, apprentices benefit from structured labor-management training oversight, competitive progressive wages, and strong industry connections throughout Rhode Island.
The five-year apprenticeship includes 8,000 hours of paid on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices develop skills in pipe fitting, welding, steam and hydronic heating systems, gas piping, water distribution, and drain-waste-vent installation, all while working toward meeting state licensing requirements.
Completing the program earns apprentices journey-level designation, positioning them for careers in commercial, industrial, and residential plumbing and pipefitting. Union membership through Local 51 also provides access to benefits and continued professional development opportunities.
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 Rhode Island
Plumber/Pipefitters in Rhode Island are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, Board of Examiners of Plumbers.
View full Rhode Islandlicensing requirements →Reviews
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