Plumber/Pipefitter at UA Local 693 / JATC
at UA Local 693 / JATC in South Burlington, VT
About This Program
UA Local 693 / JATC sponsors a union Plumber/Pipefitter apprenticeship in South Burlington, VT. Affiliated with the United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters, this JATC program combines union-backed training standards with real-world job site experience. Apprentices earn wages throughout the full duration of the program, with pay typically increasing as they advance through each year.
The apprenticeship lasts five years and is structured around 8,000 hours of supervised on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices gain practical skills in plumbing systems, pipe installation and fabrication, steamfitting, and mechanical systems used in commercial and residential construction. Classroom studies include trade theory, piping codes, blueprint interpretation, and workplace safety.
After completing the program, apprentices earn journey-level certification through the United Association. UA Local 693 graduates are well-prepared for careers in Vermont's construction and facilities sectors, and union membership provides ongoing access to health benefits, retirement planning, and continued skill development.
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 Vermont
Plumber/Pipefitters in Vermont are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Vermont Office of Professional Regulation.
View full Vermontlicensing requirements →Reviews
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