Most plumbers in Des Moines, Iowa, work in manufacturing, construction, or residential/commercial systems for a particular company. Some are also self-employed and run their businesses.
The profession is wonderful because it allows candidates to pursue their careers in their own way. However, one thing that is only negotiable for people who would like to become a successful plumber in Des Moines is a comprehensive education.
For this reason, we have listed below some of the best and most prominent institutions offering high-quality plumbing programs for interested individuals in the city.
We have also provided a quick overview of what it takes to launch a plumbing career in Des Moines, Iowa.
How to Become a Plumber in Des Moines
The steps to becoming a successful plumber in Iowa are quite straightforward. Candidates are expected to meet the requirements to secure admission into a training program, complete a comprehensive training program, and meet the state licensing requirements.
The prerequisites for securing admission into a training program include being at least 16 years old and having a high school diploma. Candidates are expected to have knowledge of classroom fundamentals and then develop their skills through “on-the-job” training.
From there, they must be licensed by the Iowa Department of Public Health, Iowa Plumbing and Mechanical Systems Board before they can start working professionally.
Top Plumbing Schools in Des Moines, Iowa
The entries below are among the best places to receive plumbing education as a Des Moines, Iowa resident.
Western Iowa Tech College
Sioux City, IA Campus Only
Western Iowa Tech College has an excellent plumbing apprenticeship training program that allows students to understand the field's fundamental principles before they undergo extensive on-the-job training. This program is as complete as one can expect from a technical school in the state and is popular all over the region.
Tuition
Call for DetailsContact
(712) 317-3119
kevin.woockman@witcc.edu
Kirkwood Community College
Cedar Rapids, IA Campus Only
Kirkwood Community College is another destination that offers high-quality technical programs, including a pre-apprenticeship program for aspiring plumbers. This program can be completed in just one year, allowing students to develop the entry-level skills needed to enter the industry.
Tuition
$217 - $400 per CreditContact
(319) 398-4983
indtech@kirkwood.edu
Iowa Western Community College
Council Bluffs, IA Campus Only
Iowa Western Community College in Council Bluffs offers multiple training programs for prospective plumbers, providing flexibility and convenience. One of the most popular options is the Plumbing Technology Certificate program, which allows students to learn important topics in residential plumbing and secure entry-level positions upon program completion.
Tuition
$231 - $236 per CreditContact
(712) 325-3277
admissions@iwcc.edu
Hawkeye Community College
Waterloo, IA Campus + Online
Hawkeye Community College has provided trade and technical training for Iowa residents for decades and has produced successful graduates in several disciplines. The school offers a plumbing apprenticeship program for those already employed by a local business.
Tuition
$218 - $221 per CreditContact
(319) 296-2329 EXT.3010
trades@hawkeyecollege.edu
Apprenticeship Training
Lastly, prospective plumbers in Des Moines who are set on attending apprenticeship programs may choose between several options offered by the Joint Apprenticeship Training Committees. One is Local 33 in Des Moines, where accepted applicants can participate in a 5-year apprenticeship training program and earn hourly wages while still learning.
Another option is the Local 125 in Cedar Rapids, with a 5-year apprenticeship training program and an opportunity for wages during the learning period.
Individuals looking for a different apprenticeship program than the JATC options may consider the Plumbing Heating Cooling Contractors Association (PHCCA) of Iowa, which also offers a comprehensive five-year program.
Explore nearby states for education and training:
Explore detailed steps and the state’s licensing requirements:
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