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Plumber Apprenticeship Levels 1 - 4

Description

Plumbers install, alter and repair the systems that keep our water and waste disposal systems running, and that provide many of the basic amenities we rely on day-to-day. They read and interpret blueprints and project specifications. Plumbers also select the type and size of pipe required for a project and measure, shape and join pipes according to the appropriate specifications. They sometimes alter structures to accommodate the pipes. Plumber is a nationally designated trade under the Inter-provincial Red Seal program.

Once pipes are in place, plumbers test for leaks. After installation, they maintain pipes to prevent or repair leaks. Some Plumbers also braze and weld metal. A Plumber's specialization is based on his or her knowledge of the substance being carried. For example, the handling of water is very different from steam, or chemicals, or natural gas. And residential plumbing is distinct from industrial or commercial work.

Plumbers often work in the construction industry, laying new pipe for buildings or doing extensive renovations to large buildings. Residential Plumbers install and repair plumbing fixtures, such as bathtubs, showers, sinks, and toilets, and appliances such as dishwashers and water heaters.
In this 4 year apprenticeship, the apprentice works in industry and attends school each year. Level 1-3 are each a 6 week block and level 4 is an 8 week block.  Both the on the job training and school training prepare the apprentice to earn the Certificate of Qualification as a Journeyperson.

Admission Requirements 

  • You must be a registered apprentice within BC.

  • Persons wishing to become apprentices must be employed with a business that employs a qualified journeyperson plumber.

    The Industry Training Authority (ITA) sets up a registration for apprenticeship between the apprentice, the employer and the ITA.

For complete details on apprenticeship and to schedule your technical training, visit the OC Apprenticeship Programs section of the website.

Program Content

Level 1

Mathematics
Science
Safety
Tools
Pipes, Valves and Fittings
Rigging
Cutting, Soldering and Brazing
Drafting and Blueprint Reading

Level 2

Hot Water Heating Systems
Piping Drawings and Specifications
Rough-in and Finishing
Drainage and Venting Systems
Compressed Air and Medical Gas
Leveling Instruments and Tools

Level 3

Drainage and Venting Systems
Potable Water Systems
Rural Water Systems
Piping Drawings and Specifications
Gasfitting

Level 4

Install and Light Gas Appliances
Hot Water Heating Systems
Gasfitting
Electrical CCTS and Gas Controls
Rural Sewage
Drainage and Venting Systems

Post Apprenticeship Employment Opportunities:

Upon completion of the 4 years, the apprentice will be eligible to challenge the Interprovincial Endorsement Exam for Plumbing. Successfull completion provides the apprentice with the Certificate of Qualification along with the Interprovincial Endorsement or Red Seal.

All of the trades offered at Okanagan College lead to Journeyperson status under the Interprovincial standards (Red Seal) endorsement program. Red Seal certified workers can work anywhere in Canada where their trade is designated. Labour mobility is essential for the Canadian workforce. For skilled tradespeople, the Red Seal is the recognized passport to mobility in trades across Canada.

Fees:

· Each 6 week apprenticeship session is $676.20 for levels 1-3 and $895.72 for level 4

· Students must supply approved safety boots and coveralls.

· Income support for apprentices attending technician-training courses is provided by Human Resources Development Canada (HRDC) through regular employment insurance eligibility. Financial Aid

Contact Information:


To view the schedule and apply on line visit OC Apprenticeship Programs


Apprenticeship Office
(250) 762-5445 Local 4880 or 1-800-621-3038