Ready to Start a Career as a Plumber or Pipefitter?
Apply Now for Apprenticeship with the Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 6 in Rochester, Minnesota.
Are you looking for a solid, great-paying career that will be in high demand for many, many years?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, a career as a plumber or pipefitter offers powerful growth opportunities, solid pay, great benefits and daily challenges for those who enjoy solving problems with their hands. The demand for skilled tradespeople in these occupations is expected to grow more than 4 percent by 2029.
If you live in Southeastern Minnesota or around Olmsted County, Local 6 is accepting apprenticeship applications through March 25, 2021 for its five-year apprenticeship program.
Apprenticeship classrooms at Local 6 before COVID-19 restrictions. Smaller class sizes and different start times will be implemented for apprentices accepted in March. PC: Local 6
“We provide industry-leading training and career advancement options for all members and apprentices in the plumbers and pipefitters trade,” said apprenticeship coordinator Jeremy Thompson. “My advice to young people who want to make a career in construction is to join a union because of its extensive network and the education opportunities to learn while you earn.”
Registered with the State of Minnesota, the Local 6 apprenticeship program offers plenty of potential career paths and certifications, such as: plumbing, pipefitting, welding, or becoming an HVAC/R service technician. And if you thought that learning about plumbing and pipefitting was just about repairing faucets and toilets, you would be very wrong.
“Every Local 6 member is trained and certified to service and install any piping system and equipment associated with gas, medical gas, high pressure steam, condensate, ammonia, heating and cooling water, glycol systems, refrigeration and plumbing systems,” Thompson said. “Our program is really well-rounded and let’s apprentices build experience, so they are prepared for a variety of workplace conditions and challenging sites.”
Applying to the Local 6 Apprenticeship Program
The Local 6 apprenticeship is a five-year program during which young people learn on the job under the supervision of a journeyperson plumber or pipefitter. In addition, the apprenticeship requires classroom participation two nights a week during which apprentices obtain advanced training. Upon completion of the program and state testing, the apprentice becomes a fully qualified and licensed journeyman in their chosen specialty. To begin the application process, read more information and view trades videos click here: https://www.ualocal6.org/join/
To be eligible, applicants:
● Must be 18 years of age.
● Must turn in completed application with all required information by the application deadline.
● Must be able to physically perform the work and may be required to take a physical exam and drug test prior to employment.
● Provide their own transportation to get to the job and classroom.
The pipe trades require knowledge of algebra and geometry. Thompson said apprentices have many opportunities to practice their math skills and memorize the equations they will use everyday at work. PC: Local 6
“Unlike other career paths, a paid construction apprenticeship, with progressive pay increases along the way, provides economic stability and professional advancement opportunity for every apprentice,” said Sarah Lechowich, senior director with the Construction Careers Foundation (ConstructionCareers.org). “Young people who learn better using their hands often find a career in construction to be a satisfying combination of creativity and problem solving.”
“Local 6 is committed to training and delivering one of the best training programs in the industry,” Thompson said. “Everyone here wants you to be a trusted, sought-after employee. We know working in construction takes determination and reveals a lot about a persons’ character. We acknowledge that dedication with wages, health insurance for you and your family, and the security of knowing that when the time comes, you can retire comfortably.”
If you have any further questions about the process or what apprenticeship entails, please contact the Local 6 Apprenticeship Program for more information regarding classes, schedules, and training information.
Contact Information:
Local 6 Apprenticeship Coordinator
Jeremy Thompson
507-288-4172
jeremy@ualocal6.org
https://www.ualocal6.org/apprentices