Plumber/Pipefitter at South Bend & Vicinity Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 172 JATC
at South Bend & Vicinity Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 172 JATC in South Bend, IN
About This Program
The South Bend & Vicinity Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 172 JATC offers a registered union apprenticeship program in South Bend, IN. Backed by the Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee structure, this program provides a union pathway into the plumbing and pipefitting trade for workers in the South Bend metro area and surrounding region.
Over five years, apprentices complete 8,000 hours of paid on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Hands-on training takes place on active job sites where apprentices learn pipe installation, system testing, welding basics, and mechanical system repair under the supervision of experienced journeymen. Classroom coursework covers safety, applicable codes, trade math, and blueprint interpretation.
Graduates earn journey-level status in the plumbing and pipefitting trade and benefit from the backing of Local 172's union structure. Union membership typically provides access to negotiated wages, health insurance, and retirement contributions, making this program a valuable investment in long-term career and financial stability.
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 Indiana
Plumber/Pipefitters in Indiana are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Indiana Professional Licensing Agency, Plumbing Commission.
View full Indianalicensing requirements →Reviews
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