If you are looking to work in the plumbing industry, there are a few ways you can get started. You can take plumbing courses through a vocational program, do a plumbing apprenticeship or find an employer who is willing to do on-the-job training. A plumbing apprenticeship partners you with a skilled plumber who will allow you to shadow them and help, allowing you to learn. If you are considering going this route, there are pros and cons. Learning the pros and cons will help you determine if this is the right way to get into this industry for you. Here are a couple of the pros and cons of participating in plumbing apprenticeship program.
The Cons of Participating in a Plumbing Apprenticeship Program
- You Typically Are Not Paid
One of the biggest disadvantages to a plumbing apprenticeship program is that you are typically not paid for your time. This means that you may be helping complete tasks and investing your time and gas into going to various job sites, but see no money in return.
- Your Training is Only as Good as Your Teacher
The other potential downside to a plumbing apprenticeship is that your training is only as good as the person teaching you. If someone teaches you incorrect methods or is a bad teacher, your training may not be sufficient enough for you to perform all of the tasks you need to get a job as a plumber. Always carefully ask an apprenticeship program how they check the person training you to ensure that you are learning the proper and legal way to make plumbing repairs.
The Pros of Participating in a Plumbing Apprenticeship Program
- You Get On-The-Job Training
The biggest advantage to a plumbing apprenticeship is that you get on-the-job training. There are so many different things that can happen that involve plumbing. Learning in a book is not really the best way to learn. Watching how a plumber diagnoses the problem and repairs it helps you to see first hand what you need to do if you come across a similar situation.
- You Develop Contacts in the Industry
The other benefit to an apprenticeship is that you are able to develop contacts in the industry. You are working with plumbers and plumbing companies. These contacts may become references or even hire you in the future.
Taking the time to learn about the pros and cons of a plumbing apprenticeship program will help you determine if it is the best way for you to get started in the plumbing industry.
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