Without plumbers, the lives of everyone on the planet will be less convenient. The luxuries we have come to expect regarding running water and plumbing systems will simply cease to be maintained or even exist.
Thankfully, such is not the case. For candidates in Kentucky looking to join this wonderful occupation, the article below is exactly what you need to begin your journey on a confident note.
By the time you’re done, you will have understood all the major requirements expected of you, from the basic educational requirements to the licensure and certification considerations.
Furthermore, you will also find a list of some of the top training programs to prepare for your real-world duties and the possible salary figures to expect along the way.
How to Become a Plumber in Kentucky
Below are the steps needed to start a plumbing career in Kentucky.
Fundamental State Requirements
In Kentucky, prospective plumbers must ensure they are at least 18 before starting their careers. They must also be citizens of the United States or have authorization to work in the country.
State regulations also specifically state that candidates must be “of good moral character.” They will be expected to pass a criminal background check along the way.
Training Destinations
Getting the right level of training will determine just how successful a plumber in Kentucky will be. The state offers various training pathways for candidates to choose from, including the following:
- Academic Training Programs - Candidates may start their plumbing careers in Kentucky by attending community colleges or trade schools. These are the academic options.
They teach fundamental principles and provide hands-on training opportunities in the laboratory or through partnerships and internships. They also offer degrees and certificates.
- On-the-Job Training—On-the-job training arrangements are training destinations that allow candidates to learn in a real-world work environment. Many of these places typically offer some form of introductory training in theoretical principles, but most of the training involves working with actual tools and equipment.
Become Licensed
Lastly, plumbers in Kentucky are expected to obtain a license before they can work legally. The following section highlights the requirements involved in this step of the process.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
To become a licensed plumber in Kentucky, candidates must first meet the abovementioned requirements. They may then apply for a license from the Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings, and Construction, particularly the Division of Plumbing.
Candidates may send in their applications online to start the process.
The Division offers two plumbing licenses: the Journeyman Plumber and Master Plumber licenses. The Journeyman license is available for apprentices who have just completed their training.
To obtain this license, they must pass an examination and pay a testing fee of $50.
Those who already have a journeyman license must work for 2 years as a journeyman before they can qualify for the master plumber licensing examination, which incurs a $150 testing fee***.***
Top Plumbing Schools in Kentucky
The following are some notable plumbing training programs for candidates in Kentucky to consider.
Owensboro Community and Technical College
Owensboro, KY Online + Campus
Owensboro Community and Technical College has several plumbing certificate programs for candidates.
Tuition
$4,560 - $15,480Contact
(270) 686-4400
octc.info@kctcs.edu
Gateway Community and Technical College
Florence, KY Online + Campus
Gateway Community and Technical College offers programs with comprehensive curriculum, practical training, and qualified instructors.
Tuition
$4,640 - $15,560Contact
(859) 441-4500
gw-enrollment@kctcs.edu
Bluegrass Community and Technical College
Lexington, KY Online + Campus
Lastly, Bluegrass Community and Technical College also have several plumbing certificates for interested individuals to choose from; topics of focus here include backflow prevention, valves and pipes, waste disposal, drainage, and gas systems in homes, industrial, and commercial environments.
Tuition
$4,640 - $15,560Contact
(855) 246-2477
bctc-hub@kctcs.edu
Explore plumbing schools in Kentucky by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
As a plumber in Kentucky, you may fall into any of three categories about your annual average salary. The first category is the average earner with an annual salary of around $56,821.
The second category belongs to the bottom earners, who earn an annual salary of around $39,077. In comparison, the third category belongs to the top earners with an annual salary of around $82,622.
The best locations to work as a plumber in Kentucky for the highest salary are Radcliff, with an annual average salary of $77,611; Shelbyville, with an annual average salary of $76,793; and Elizabethtown, with an annual average salary of $62,640.
Candidates may also consider Danville, with an annual average salary of $61,812, and Florence, with an annual average salary of $61,311.
Gaining more job experience, focusing on a lucrative specialty, and considering professional credentials are all ways to increase earning potential.