At Porter and Chester Institute (PCI) students can graduate from the plumbing program in as few as 12 months. Graduates from the program earn a diploma through the recently-implemented hybrid learning option. Students will attend on-campus labs two days per week and complete the rest of the program in an online asynchronous format. The Plumbing program is offered with day and evening lab session options and schedules vary depending on which time of day students choose for their on-campus labs.

Within the plumbing program, students will learn things like:

• Installation and repair of water, drainage, gas, and other piping systems in factories, businesses, and homes
• Replacing worn parts
• Preparing cost estimates for clients
• Inspecting installed pipe systems and pipelines
• How to read blueprints and follow building codes
• Troubleshooting malfunctioning systems

But what exactly is the job outlook for plumbers? The demand for skilled trade workers, in general, is projected to increase by 2024. This includes construction workers, carpenters, and more. According to some data, skilled workers in the plumbing field, specifically, have a job outlook that is projected to increase by 14% from 2018-2028.

There are also jobs within the plumbing industry that graduates could get involved in (these may require additional certifications, other education, possible apprenticeships, job experience, and other factors). Some other plumbing career paths include:

• Pipefitter
• Steamfitter
• Pipelayer 
• Gas  Service Technician
• Project Manager
• Business Owner

PCI's Plumbing program can open up opportunities within the career field after graduation. To learn more about the program, visit the program description page. If you're ready to get started, sign up through our online application portal.