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Program Overview
Plumbers install, repair and maintain the water supply, wastewater treatment, drainage and gas systems in homes, commercial and industrial buildings. The work includes plumbing tasks to assemble, install and repair pipes, fittings and fixtures of heating, water and drainage systems according to specifications and plumbing codes. Plumbers also install sanitary facilities, such as lavatories, toilets, tubs, bathroom fixtures, showers, kitchen fixtures, drinking fountains and laundry equipment.
Plumbing work can be indoors or outdoors in existing and newly constructed buildings, in various weather conditions and around noise, dirt and mud. The work requires physical strength and stamina with prolonged standing, lifting heavy pipes and equipment, and working in cramped, awkward or uncomfortable positions. Training in safety practices prevents the risk of dangers with falls from ladders, cuts from sharp tools and burns from hot pipes or soldering equipment.
Training Plan
- 5-year training program
- 8,000 hours of on-the-job training
- 572 hours of paid related instruction
- 260 hours of unpaid related instruction
- Complete Red Cross First Aid, CPR, and OSHA Safety Training Courses during your first year
- Maintain yourFirst Aid/CPR Course Certification
- Complete the Transition-To-Trainer Course in your final year of apprenticeship.
Topics include plumbing code, repair and service, materials, installation of fixtures and appliances, system design, trade math, safety, science, blueprint reading and isometric drawing.
Learn more from the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development.
Program Details
Plumbing apprenticeship classes are offered at the Madison College Commercial Ave campus.
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Curriculum and Experience
Prospective program students, the information below reflects the basic requirements for students admitted for the 2025-2026 academic year. To learn more about Madison College, visit us.
Current and newly admitted program students, go directly to your Degree Progress Report to view:
- Progress toward your specific requirements
- Alternative (in lieu of) courses to meet specific requirements
If you have questions after reviewing your degree progress report (advisement report), please see Advising Services.
First SemesterSecond SemesterThird SemesterFourth SemesterFifth SemesterSixth SemesterSeventh SemesterEighth Semester -
Admission
How to Apply
In Wisconsin, all journeyworker plumbers must be licensed by the Plumbing Bureau of the State Department of Workforce Development (DWD). A person can only be licensed as a journeyworker plumber after completing an apprenticeship approved by the Bureau of Apprenticeship Standards of DWD.
Get Started
You must apply directly to the Associated Builders & Contractors or the Madison Plumbing Joint Apprenticeship Committee (the application does not go through Madison College).
Associated Builders & Contractors (ABC)
5330 Wall Street
Madison, WI 53718
800.829.9926
www.abcwi.orgOR
Madison Plumbing Joint Apprenticeship Committee
5940 Seminole Center Court, Suite 102
Madison, WI 53711
608.288.1414
https://www.mechanicalindustries.org/home/careers/plumbing-apprenticeship/All apprenticeships require an employer sponsor. After passing the application process, you will be responsible for finding an employer to sponsor you as an apprentice before you may begin the program.
Application Requirements
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Meet required norms on aptitude test (if required)
• Physically able to perform trade
• Valid driver’s license or reliable transportation -
Career Outcomes
Madison College Apprenticeship graduates are prepared to:
- Assemble pipe sections, tubing and fittings, using couplings, hangers, cement, and plastic solvent, soldering, brazing and welding equipment.
- Cut openings in structures to accommodate pipes and pipe fittings, using hand and power tools.
- Fill pipes or plumbing fixtures with water or air and observe pressure gauges to detect and locate leaks.
- Hang steel supports from ceiling joists to hold pipes in place.
- Install pipe assemblies, fitting, valves, appliances such as dishwashers and water heaters, and fixtures such as sinks and toilets, using hand and power tools.
- Install underground storm, sanitary and water piping systems, and extend piping to connect fixtures and plumbing to these systems.
- Repair and maintain plumbing, replace defective washers, replace or mend broken pipes, and open clogged drains.
- Interpret building plans and inspect structures to assess material and equipment needs.
- Determine the material, methods and tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
- Maintain a working knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses and repairs.
- Maintain a working knowledge of blueprint reading, the plumbing code, math and theory.
- Students must be able to understand detailed written and verbal communication.