All it takes is one lousy morning with no running water – or a clogged sink or phantom-flushing toilet – to remind us how dependent we are on the expertise of plumbers. But troubleshooting is just a sliver of their responsibilities. Those working in this profession develop blueprints to plan where pipes and fixtures should be plotted in a structure. They also install and connect the piping and fixtures, either working individually or with a team of apprentices and pipefitters.

In addition to facilitating water supply from pipes and large fixtures, such as bathtubs, showers, sinks and toilets, plumbers ensure that water reaches appliances like dishwashers and water heaters. The best in the occupation are strong problem-solvers who have mastered customer service and can meet the physical and mechanical demands of the job.

New buildings and residences are being built to comply with stricter water efficiency standards, and companies housed in older structures are hoping to retrofit to use more energy-efficient systems.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 2.3% employment growth for plumbers between 2022 and 2032. In that period, an estimated 10,900 jobs should open up.

Becoming a plumber is a two-pronged process that includes practical training and study. Traditionally, a hopeful plumber begins a four- or five-year apprenticeship program to receive technical education and complete the required hours of on-the-job training under a licensed professional. Plumbers who have successfully completed their apprenticeship are known as journey-level workers.

An apprenticeship is the most common pathway to becoming a plumber. Many unions and businesses mandate that an apprentice receive a set amount of hours of technical education, which could include instruction in math, applied physics and chemistry, and up to 2,000 hours of paid, practical training working with an experienced plumber. Safety training is also an important component of the process, since injuries are common in this line of work. "We have many hours worth of [Occupational Safety and Health Administration] training before we go on to a job site," says Patrick Kellett, the general secretary-treasurer for the United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing, Pipe Fitting Industry of the United States and Canada. "We’re very conscious of the dangers that come with working in construction."

To work independently, a plumber is required to receive a license. In most states, the prerequisite for earning this license is two to five years of practical experience. There’s also an exam to test technical know-how and understanding of plumbing codes. The United Association’s website offers extensive information on licensing requirements by state.