For anyone thinking about stepping into the plumbing sector for the first time, we’ve explored a few of the different entry routes and the different pathways that a career in the industry could lead to. 

From understanding where to begin your training to knowing about the progression opportunities you might want to explore further down the line, there are various important factors to consider in those initial stages.  

What are the first steps to consider when starting your plumbing career?

There are typically three common entry routes when it comes to the plumbing industry: 

  • Apprenticeships 

These are perhaps the most ‘traditional’ routes and can be advantageous as they offer the opportunity to earn while you learn. However, since apprenticeship wages are generally low, this option is more popular amongst school leavers with fewer financial commitments. 

  • College plumbing courses

These can appeal to a wider range of demographics, with learning often available on a part-time or evening basis. Courses will have different entry requirements depending on how advanced they are — this can be limiting, for instance, if you want to complete a higher-level course, but don’t hold the minimum entry qualifications. 

  • Private construction training provider

For those who want the most efficient way of kickstarting a plumbing career, private training providers can take you from complete beginner to fully qualified in as little as six weeks. While there is an upfront cost involved with this choice, the investment does mean you’ll be in a position to seek work within weeks rather than years.

As well as this, private training providers won’t require any prior qualifications, meaning they are open to anyone wanting to begin their plumbing career. 

What are the next steps?

Gaining work experience can help set you apart from other candidates when it comes to seeking paid employment upon the completion of your training. If you’re in a position to, finding work as a plumber’s mate before you finish your course is a great way to get a headstart on the job hunt. 

If you hope to work on site, you’ll need to obtain your CSCS Card before doing so. This requires passing an appropriate CITB Health, Safety and Environment test and is a mandatory requirement.  

Potential plumbing career paths

Plumbing skills are always going to be an integral part of the construction industry, with roles ranging from domestic maintenance and repair to huge commercial projects which could see you working on the installation of water systems in a brand-new block of offices or shopping centres. Plus, with the increased use of sustainable technologies, there are plenty of exciting developments happening across the sector, too. 

With that said, plumbing can open up the door to in-demand green roles such as a heat pump engineer, or specialising in renewable energy sources like solar power. 

A frequent progression route for experienced plumbers is to go on and obtain gas qualifications, significantly increasing the scope of work you’re able to take on. 

Those who have built a high level of experience in the plumbing industry may want to consider moving into estimating or site management. Setting up your own business is another attractive prospect, particularly for anyone wanting more control over their work-life balance. 

Further studies are also a possibility — you may wish to obtain a higher national diploma or degree and train to become an engineer. 

At Able Skills, we offer a range of plumbing courses led by time-served experts who know exactly what is required to succeed in the industry. You can find more information about all of our courses online here.