Plumber/Pipefitter at Steamfitters Local No. 602 JATC
at Steamfitters Local No. 602 JATC in Landover, MD
About This Program
Steamfitters Local No. 602 JATC, based in Landover, Maryland, offers a union plumber/pipefitter apprenticeship serving the Washington, D.C. metro region. This JATC program is jointly administered by labor and management to ensure apprentices receive consistent, high-quality instruction both on the job and in the classroom. Apprentices are paid from day one.
The five-year program includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices focus on steamfitting applications including high-pressure piping, hydronic systems, HVAC piping, and industrial process systems. Classroom instruction covers pipefitting theory, welding, code compliance, safety, and the mechanics of complex mechanical systems found in commercial and institutional construction.
Graduates achieve journey-level status and become full members of Local 602, entering one of the most active construction markets in the country. Union membership includes access to competitive wages, healthcare, and retirement benefits negotiated through collective bargaining with area contractors.
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 Maryland
Plumber/Pipefitters in Maryland are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Maryland Department of Labor, State Board of Plumbing.
View full Marylandlicensing requirements →Reviews
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