Overview of Plumbing and Related Water Supply Services

Plumbing and Related Water Supply Services is an associate degree program designed to give students foundational knowledge in the field of plumbing and related water supply services. Areas of study include plumbing methods and procedures, domestic hot water systems, hydronic heating systems, sanitary and water distribution, and gas piping systems. Students learn how to install, maintain, and repair plumbing systems, as well as gain a thorough understanding of the related codes, standards, and regulations.

Career Opportunities for Graduates with an Associate Degree in Plumbing and Related Water Supply Services

The career opportunities for graduates with an associate degree in Plumbing and Related Water Supply Services are numerous. Job titles may include Plumbing Technician, Plumber, Maintenance Plumber/Gasfitter, Building Engineer, and Water Treatment Operator. Common employers include plumbing and HVAC firms, residential property management companies, and public works departments. Additionally, graduates may pursue further education in the field, such as earning a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering.

Internship or Co-op Opportunities Related to Plumbing and Related Water Supply Services

Several companies and organizations offer internships and co-op opportunities related to Plumbing and Related Water Supply Services. These opportunities allow students to gain hands-on experience in the field, which can help them to gain job experience before graduation. Internship and co-op opportunities may involve working with general contractors to install plumbing systems, working on public works projects, or working for residential or commercial developers.

Specialized Tracks or Concentrations Within Plumbing and Related Water Supply Services

Some schools offer specialized tracks or concentrations within Plumbing and Related Water Supply Services. For example, some schools may offer a specialization in plumbing for Energy Efficiency, which includes courses in energy efficiency, renewable technologies, and energy conservation. Other concentrations may be offered in areas such as hydronic heating and cooling systems, water quality and conservation, and green plumbing.

How Does an Associate Degree in Plumbing and Related Water Supply Services Prepare Students for Further Education?

An associate degree in Plumbing and Related Water Supply Services provides students with a strong foundation in the field. The curriculum covers plumbing methods and procedures, safety regulations, and code enforcement. Students also gain extensive hands-on experience through internships and co-op opportunities. Graduates who choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering may be able to transfer some of their credits from the associate program.

Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Plumbing and Related Water Supply Services

Artificial intelligence (AI) is having an increasingly significant impact on the plumbing industry. AI-powered technologies are being used to automate parts of the installation, repair and maintenance processes. AI also helps improve efficiency by finding more efficient solutions to existing plumbing problems and maximizing water usage. AI is also beginning to be used to monitor existing plumbing systems and provide preventive maintenance.

The Career Outlook for Plumbing and Related Water Supply Services

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that job growth in the field of plumbing and related water supply services is expected to be much faster than the average for most other industries, at a rate of 11% from 2019 to 2029. The BLS also states that a combination of aging infrastructure, new construction, and increased consumer demand for residential and commercial services is driving growth in the sector. Graduates with an associate degree in Plumbing and Related Water Supply Services can expect to be in high-demand in the future.

Here are the top reported starting salaries for graduates in Plumbing and Related Water Supply Services:

Ivy Tech Community College, Salary: $83,350

Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology, Salary: $39,659

SUNY College of Technology at Delhi, Salary: $38,166

For privacy reasons, not all schools report the first year salaries for students who earned their associate degree in Plumbing and Related Water Supply Services.