Every community relies on plumbing technology. And so long as this dependability persists, we will continue to need skilled and proficient plumbers to do the installation, repair, and maintenance of the plumbing systems we use every single day.
Whether it’s industrial facilities, commercial establishments, or residential properties, plumbers specialize in these different areas. Plumbing professionals can either work for an established plumbing company or start their own business.
If you’re thinking about getting into the field, let’s take a look at the rewards and challenges plumbers face on the job every day.
Rewards of the Job
Steady Demand for Plumbers
If you’re considering to get into plumbing, the job forecast is an attractive decision-making key factor. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that plumbing jobs are expected to grow by over 15 percent in the coming years.
The influx of new construction (residential, commercial, infrastructure projects) brings a steadily increasing need for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters.
The demand for maintenance, repair, and upgrade of old plumbing systems to energy-efficient ones in renovated buildings are also on the rise.
Also, building codes tend to change periodically. Thus, plumbing professionals are required to install and inspect sprinkler systems to make sure they are up to code.
Be Your Own Boss
Do you see yourself operating your own plumbing company? Many graduates of plumbing programs go on to start their own business.
If you want to start your own plumbing business, there are several factors you need to consider. First, you’d want to decide if you wish to establish your personal brand or if you would want to be affiliated with franchise plumbing companies.
The latter allows self-employed plumbers to avoid struggling to get new clients as they’re already a part of an established plumbing group.
Starting your own plumbing venture from scratch means you need to know how to build a good customer base, market your services, do administrative work, and ensure to sustain the business for the long term.
Either way, join your local plumbing association to help you gain access to helpful resources and connections.
Exciting Routines
With plumbing work, there are no boring routines. If you like problem-solving, then working as a plumber can be a good fit for you. A lot of the work plumbers do every day can be unpredictable and require thinking of your feet.
Whether you need to figure out the source of a water leak, assessing a new construction, or addressing an emergency plumbing situation, the role of a plumber faces a healthy amount of challenges.
These challenges also come with new opportunities to learn. So if you’re someone who’s not a fan of boring routines and if you love learning on the job, then you may want to consider the plumbing trade is a viable career option.
Challenges of the Job
Inconsistent Call Times
Being a plumber means responding to calls 24/7. While most plumbers work a regular eight-hour shift, often there are emergency calls and last-minute requests to attend to.
Plumbers are on-call; whether it’s dealing with overflowing sinks or damaged pipes at three in the morning or on holiday. That’s the nature of the job.
Flexibility and adaptability are two essential traits of plumbing professionals. You’ll need to be patient and flexible to prosper in this type of work.
Working Under Pressure
The unpredictability of this type of profession often makes it stressful. Thus, plumbers need to remain calm, level-headed, and logical when doing work.
Whether you’re a self-employed plumber or you work for a plumbing company, your work days will most likely be filled with numerous service calls to respond to.
You’ll need to stay on schedule, meet deadlines, and work swiftly. Fortunately, novice plumbers work with their senior counterparts. This allows them to learn how to do the job effectively.
Final Words
Even though the plumbing trade comes with challenges, numerous rewarding aspects make overcoming these challenges worthwhile.
The plumbing industry is a part of the community that’s essential to everyone’s daily life. Thus, it’s certainly fulfilling to know you’re a part of a trade that does something meaningful to the community.
Do You Want to Learn More About the Plumbing Trade?
If you’re interested, please take a look at our apprentice program. We are passionate about this profession, and we want to find like-minded individuals.