Plumbers and Pipefitters

Employers

Approximately 473,400 plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters are employed in the United States. Most plumbers and pipefitters work for plumbing, heating, and air-conditioning contracts in repair, maintenance, new construction, and renovation work. Others worked for industrial, commercial, and government organizations. About 6 percent of plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters are self-employed.

Starting Out

Applicants who wish to become apprentices usually contact local plumbing, heating, and air-conditioning contractors or associations to find positions. Individual contractors or contractor associations often sponsor local apprenticeship programs. Apprentices often go on to permanent employment with the firms with which they apprenticed.