Water is a force of nature – and you’re out to tame it. It’ll take a lot of training – but you’ll have more fun learning on the job.
person fixing plumbing
Plumbing Apprenticeship
Program Number: 504275
Your Degree:
Apprenticeship
Area of Study:
Construction, Manufacturing and Maintenance
Delivery Method:
100% In Person
Estimated Time to Complete:
16 Credits | Finish paid training and class time in 4 years
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What You'll Pay
Use our Net Price Calculator to estimate your tuition costs.

Estimated Program Cost

$3,047.39
  • 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.

  • Curriculum and Experience

    Prospective program students, the information below reflects the basic requirements for students admitted for the 2024-2025 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 Semester
    50-427-751
    2 credits
    Second Semester
    50-427-752
    2 credits
    Third Semester
    50-427-753
    2 credits
    Fourth Semester
    50-427-754
    2 credits
    Fifth Semester
    50-427-755
    2 credits
    Sixth Semester
    Seventh Semester
    50-427-757
    2 credits
    Eighth Semester
    50-427-758
    2 credits
  • 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.org

    OR

    Madison Plumbing Joint Apprenticeship Committee
    5940 Seminole Center Court, Suite 102 
    Madison, WI 53711
    608.288.1414 
    https://www.mechanicalindustries.org/apprenticeshipcareers/

    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.
Contact the School of Technologies and Trades

Madison Truax Campus
Main Building, A2105

1701 Wright Street
Madison, Wisconsin 53704

tandt@madisoncollege.edu
608.246.6800

Hours

Monday - Thursday: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Friday: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm (phone or email only)