Plumbing Apprenticeship

The ASUMH Plumbing Apprenticeship is a comprehensive, four-year program designed to give students both hands-on training and classroom instruction, so they can earn while they learn. During the program, apprentices will work under the supervision of a licensed master plumber while also attending weekly classes. Classes meet on Tuesdays for two hours of in-class instruction and two hours of homework.

To be considered for the apprenticeship program, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be at least 18 years of age.

• Have a valid driver’s license.

• Be employed by a partner employer for at least 30 days prior to acceptance into the program.

The cost of the program is a very affordable $300 per year, and all textbooks are provided by the program at no additional cost. High school graduates or those with a GED who are Arkansas residents may also be eligible for the Arkansas Workforce Challenge Scholarship, which will cover the first year of tuition.

To earn the title of journeyman plumber, apprentices must complete a combination of both hands-on training and classroom instruction. This includes:

• 8,000 hours of on-the-job training (OJT) under the mentorship of a licensed master plumber.

• 640 hours of related classroom instruction, covering everything from plumbing codes and safety standards to advanced technical skills.

Once these requirements are met, apprentices are eligible to sit for their journeyman plumbing exam, opening doors to a variety of career opportunities in the plumbing industry.

The ASU Mountain Home Plumbing Apprenticeship program is a collaborative effort between the university and local plumbing businesses. Currently, 13 local plumbing companies are partnering with the program to offer apprentices valuable on-the-job training opportunities. These businesses span across a broad region, including Mountain Home, Norfork, Midway, Flippin, Salem, Bull Shoals, Cotter, and even Mountain View.

The plumbing industry offers excellent job security and opportunities for advancement. With a growing demand for skilled plumbers, the ASU Mountain Home Plumbing Apprenticeship provides a pathway to a career with stability, competitive wages, and the satisfaction of working in a trade that is essential to every community. Whether you are just starting out or looking to switch careers, this apprenticeship program is an ideal way to get started in the plumbing trade.

Average Pay in Arkansas*:

The median annual wage for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters in Arkansas is approximately $45,980. Salaries range from $30,560 for entry-level positions to $63,120 for highly experienced plumbers. Urban areas like Fayetteville and Fort Smith often offer higher wages due to increased demand and cost of living. 

Job Market and Outlook:

Employment for plumbers in Arkansas is expected to grow by 6% from 2020 to 2030, slightly above the national average. Around 390 job openings are projected annually in Arkansas, driven by new construction and the need to replace retiring workers.

*Salary and job marketing outlook information was provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and may not accurately reflect exact compensation and employment expectations in your area.