Plumber/Pipefitter at UA Local 43 Plumbers Steamfitters JATC
at UA Local 43 Plumbers Steamfitters JATC in Chattanooga, TN
About This Program
UA Local 43 Plumbers Steamfitters JATC in Chattanooga, Tennessee operates a five-year union Plumber/Pipefitter apprenticeship through its Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee. This JATC program combines union-negotiated wages, structured training oversight, and field experience with some of the top mechanical contractors in the Chattanooga area.
The apprenticeship requires 8,000 hours of paid on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices learn steam and hydronic systems, industrial and commercial pipefitting, welding, water distribution, blueprint reading, and safety compliance — advancing through skill levels over the five-year period.
Graduates become journey-level plumbers and steamfitters within the United Association, a widely recognized union credential. Union membership through Local 43 provides access to negotiated wage scales, health and retirement benefits, and continued training opportunities throughout a career in the trades.
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
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