Plumbing Apprenticeship

Plumbing apprentices plan, install, troubleshoot, and repair all aspects of water supply, waste, and vent systems, as well as gaseous fuel systems, following the Plumbing Code. They read blueprints, specifications, and instructions on what and where work is to be done. They plan their work in a logical sequence; coordinate it with other trades, and perform it in a quality manner and in a reasonable amount of time. They choose appropriate tools, equipment, and materials to perform their duties. They communicate effectively and are good team members.  

Program Outcomes

• Use the Wisconsin Plumbing Code effectively.
• Specify, install and repair plumbing in accordance with the code with good quality work in a reasonable amount of time.
• Communicate effectively with customers, employer, and other workers.
• Calculate costs, time, & materials for a job.
• Read plans, drawings and specifications with accuracy and use them to plan and complete work.
• Protect the public safety and health; use appropriate personal safety considerations.

Minimum Requirements

The apprenticeship applicant must complete the following to be considered a qualified applicant:

1. Apprentice application
2. Provide a copy of their high school transcripts or GED.
   • (High school seniors in their last semester may apply if they meet all other qualifications and submit a letter from their high school counselor stating they will graduate at the end of the academic year)
3. Prove they have a valid driver's license
4. Take the TABE Survey entrance assessment at the Southwest Tech Testing Center in Building 200, Room 231. Please call Student Services at 608.822.2354 to schedule a testing time. The following minimum scores are required for entrance into the program: Reading 21, Math Comprehension 19 and Applied Math 14. (These scores are approximately at the 11th grade level (11.4)).
5. Be physically fit. (He or she may need to prove this with a doctor's certificate)

No one will be considered a qualified applicant until all of the above requirements have been met.

Please submit the information listed above to:

Jody Millin
Southwest WI Technical College
1800 Bronson Blvd.
Fennimore , WI 53809
608.822.2720
jmillin@swtc.edu
fax# 608.822.2675

You will be given a letter of introduction to give to prospective employers after all the minimum qualifications have been met. If you find an employer willing to hire you as an apprentice, contact Jody Millin at Southwest Tech 608.822.2720. Jody will provide you with information on procedures to be followed by you and your employer.

Term of Apprenticeship

The Technical Plumbing Apprenticeship program is five years in length, with a minimum of 8,000 hours including 572 hours of paid related instruction and 260 hours of unpaid instruction plus an 8 hour Plumbing Prep Test-Out Exam or a 54 hour Plumbing Code Review Course.