Plumbing: Apprenticeship
Description
Get the skills that pay the bills!
In BC, an individual can become certified Plumber by completing the Plumbing apprentice program. Apprenticeship programs are designed to provide students the full scope of knowledge and applied skills necessary to perform the occupation. Apprentices have an employer to sponsor them and are registered with the Industry Training Authority (ITA).
KPU delivers in-school technical training for Plumbing apprenticeship levels 1, 2, and 3. The in-school technical training for each level is 6 weeks in duration and includes an end of level examination. Additional information is available at: kpu.ca/trades/plumbing.
The pathway to becoming a certified Plumber generally takes 4 years to complete the in-school technical training and work-based training hours. Plumber apprentices will be eligible to write the Red Seal Inter-provincial Examination upon completion of all in-school technical training. The Red Seal endorsement will be awarded upon completion of 6420 work-based training hours and is recognized in all jurisdictions across Canada; additional information is at: red-seal.ca.
Employment Insurance (EI) Eligibility
Provincial program financial supports must be applied for online through the Apprentice Online Portal at http://www.apprenticeonline.gov.bc.ca/ . It is recommended that apprentices apply for these supports four weeks in advance of the start of their technical training and application must be made no later than the first day of technical training.
General Prerequisites
The following requirements apply:
- Active apprentice registration in the BC Apprenticeship system.
- A valid Trade Worker Identification number from the Industry Training Authority (ITA-ID). If you do not have an ITA-ID, you will need to complete an apprenticeship registration form through the ITA (www.itabc.ca) prior to enrolling (Level 1 through to 4). To determine your eligibility please consult with the Industry Training Authority.
Note: International student enrolment requires approval of the Dean.
Program Requirements
Plumbing Level 1 (APLM 1010)
- Use Safe Work Practices
- Use Tools and Equipment
- Organize Work
- Prepare and Assemble Plumbing Components
Plumbing Level 2 (APLM 1020)
- Use Tools and Equipment
- Organize Work
- Install Sanitary and Storm Drainage Systems
- Install Fixtures and Appliances
- Install Hydronic Heating and Cooling Systems
- Install Specialty Systems
Plumbing Level 3 (APLM 1030)
- Organize Work
- Install Water Service and Distribution
- Install Fixtures and Appliances
- Install Specialized Systems
- Install Natural Gas and Propane Systems
Plumbing Level 4 (APLM 1040)
- Under development
Other Information
Special Equipment
Students will require appropriate tools and safety wear in conformance with WorkSafeBC regulations that includes safety glasses, steel toed boots, hard hat, hearing protection and vest.
Credential Awarded
KPU will report your in-school technical training completion information to the Industry Training Authority (ITA) in order for the ITA to determine credit towards your designated apprenticeship.