HOW TO GET THERE
Typical pathway
A typical path for a Canadian secondary-school student is to finish high school, especially courses in math, science, and technical or shop classes, then look for entry into a plumbing apprenticeship or a related college program. Many students gain early experience through co-op, summer work, or entry-level helper jobs with a plumber or construction company. During training, apprentices learn to read drawings, measure and cut pipes, join fittings, and test systems for leaks. Requirements can vary by province and employer, and some jobs may need further training or certification.
THE WORK
What you may do
Legacy duties
- Read blueprints, drawings and specifications to determine layout of plumbing system, water supply network and waste and drainage systems
- Install, repair and maintain domestic, commercial or industrial plumbing fixtures and systems
- Locate and mark positions for pipe connections, passage holes and fixtures in walls and floors
- Cut opening in walls and floors to accommodate pipe and pipe fittings
- Measure, cut, bend and thread pipes using hand and power tools or machines
- Join pipes using couplings, clamps, screws, bolts, cement or soldering, brazing and welding equipment
- Test pipes for leaks using air and water pressure gauges
- May prepare cost estimates.
SKILLS TO BUILD
Skills used in this Career
MaintenanceWater/Gas ServiceConstruction/manufacturingPhysical WorkDiagrams/Blueprints