Plumbing Apprenticeship
The demand for professionals who are trained to install, maintain, and repair plumbing systems is constant and rapidly growing. HCC’s Plumbing Apprenticeship Program is designed to cultivate the next generation of skilled technicians to work in the plumbing industry – in both residential and commercial environments.
Apprentices acquire a diverse skill set, learning how to install and repair pipes that carry liquids or gases to and in businesses, homes, and factories. Plumbers typically install pipes and fixtures, study blueprints and follow state and local building codes, inspect and test installed pipe systems and pipelines, and troubleshoot systems that are not working.
Working in partnership with Associated Builders & Contractors, students enrolled in ABC’s Plumbing Apprenticeship Program complete a total of 8,000 hours of paid field work over a period of four years, while completing required coursework at HCC. In tandem, apprentices can pursue Maryland State Plumbing journeyperson licensure.
Requirements for Admission
Associated Builders and Contractors accepts apprenticeship applications year-round and offers two tracks for admission.
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Track One: If you are already employed in the plumbing industry, click here to view the standard requirements for admission.
- Be 18 years of age or older by the program start date.
- Obtain a physician clearance, with confirmation that you are physically able to work in the plumbing industry (handwritten note on a prescription pad is sufficient).
- Submit a copy of high school diploma or transcript of last grade completed.
- Provide a letter of recommendation from a current or previous employer.
- Must have a laptop or tablet for coursework (see HCC website for specific operating system and hardware requirements).
- A Maryland State plumbing apprentice license through the Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulation will be initiated once the applicant is interviewed by ABC.
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Track Two: If you are seeking a career in the plumbing industry, click here to view the standard requirements for admission.
- Be 16 years of age or older by the program start date.
- Submit a copy of high school diploma or transcript of last grade completed.
- Must have a laptop or tablet for coursework (see HCC website for specific operating system and hardware requirements).
- A Maryland State plumbing apprentice license through the Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulation will be initiated once the applicant is interviewed by ABC.
Eligible Candidates
The Plumbing Apprenticeship Program is open to Maryland residents, prospective and current HCC students, as well professionals currently working in the plumbing industry who are interested in opportunities for growth.
Eager to Take the First Step?
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If you are a current high school student who is interested in participating in the HCPSS Apprenticeship Maryland Academy during your senior year, click here.
- Discuss your interest in participating in an apprenticeship and review requirements for the program with your parent/guardian.
- Meet with the HCPSS Apprenticeship Maryland Coordinator to discuss opportunities and next steps for enrollment during your senior year.
- Interview with local eligible employers, to be considered for a position that aligns with your interests and career goals.
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If you are a current Howard County Public School System student who is participating in the Construction Career Academy, click here.
- Meet with your school counselor and Career Academy teacher to discuss your career goals and post-secondary plans.
- Complete a registration form with your selected career academy.
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If you are a recent high school graduate, a current HCC student, or already employed in the plumbing industry, click here.
- Submit an application on the Associated Builders & Contractors (ABC) website.
- Schedule placement testing if needed.
- Prepare for interviews with ABC, who will want to know what inspired your interest in this program, career goals, and why you should be considered a strong candidate for consideration.
Ready to Learn More?
Need more information? Prospective students and businesses, please send an email to apprentice@howardcc.edu.
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