Congrats! You’ve decided to take the plunge into plumbing. It’s a great career with plenty of opportunities. But, being a good plumbing apprentice is more than remembering the crews' lunch orders or what rolls downhill. How you act during your plumbing apprenticeship sets the tone for your entire career. This is your chance to ask as many questions as possible and take advantage of the opportunity to learn from professionals who are willing and prepared to assist you.
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Your main job whilst in your plumbing apprenticeship is to learn enough to pass your licensing exam, and become an assist to the company and the plumbing trade in general. Don’t be afraid to double-check if you are unsure of anything or question why tasks are done a certain way!
You won’t have access to a host of master plumbers at your disposal forever, so avoid any bland attitudes and take advantage of their experience. The best way to show a genuine interest in your learning is by asking questions. Keep a notebook and pencil in your back pocket at all times and keep a record of everything you learn on the job! Your notebook may be the most useful tool you take with you. It will also become an invaluable resource when it comes to studying and sitting your exams.
Apprenticeships are tiring. Whether you're transitioning from school or an alternative career into the trades, apprenticeships require an adjustment. However, finding extra rest time by skiving off your coursework is a recipe for disaster.
What you learn through your coursework will help you gain practical skills on-site and allow you to come to grips with the theoretical reasoning behind certain tasks. There aren’t infinite opportunities to sit your exams, either, so maintaining a steady study schedule will reduce anxiety and panic come exam time.
The best way to gain the respect of your peers is to show that you value their time and the opportunity they’ve given you. Showing up on time and staying off your phone are basic ways to prove you’re responsible and engaged. Showing boredom or disinterest too often may be a sign you’re in the wrong place. If you finish early or can't think of what to do, ask for additional tasks and, if in doubt, clean something.
Time management is a skill that gets better with practice! It’s key to being a good plumber and will be crucial should you decide to go out on your own one day.
After a while, you'll settle into the swing of things and grow your list of tips and tricks. This is great! However, try and avoid the trap of becoming a 'Master Apprentice'. For at least the first three years, accept that you’re probably not going to have more knowledge or insight than the people training you. If you have questions or see something done in a way that differs from your coursework or how another professional does it, respectfully ask for the reasoning why. Assuming you know more than the rest of the crew is a fast way to isolate yourself or gain a reputation as an annoying know-it-all. Don't worry, it won't be long before you're left to do it all on your own and can prove yourself then.
You're going to make mistakes. It's part of the journey and an important factor in your education. However, starting each job aiming for success is a great way to avoid sloppy mistakes. Be neat! Even if it takes time, wipe off excess glue, align the letters on the pipe, and tidy up after yourself.
For more advice, check out How to Be a Good Plumber.
Regardless of where the job takes place or how long you've been on the job, act like a professional who is there to perform a service on behalf of your company. Be honest if you cannot answer a question, don’t attempt a task you are not prepared for and ensure you conduct yourself in a way that benefits your reputation - and the companies. Simple things, like arriving clean and prepared for each day and responding to difficult situations with empathy will positively grow your reputation.
This goes the other way, too. A fair bit of hazing is normal, but it’s up to you when to know if it’s gone too far. There’s a difference between a few jokes or an extra trip to the store for a pipe stretcher or a long weight, and dreading going to work due to ‘pranks’ that hinder your ability to learn. If you're worried about unprofessional conduct, speak up!
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A good rule of thumb - if you’ve had to borrow a tool three times, consider buying one. Buying your tools also shows your dedication to the role and your career. Check out if there are incentives or financial help through unions or your apprenticeship programme to help out with the cost, or ask the crew if they're looking to upscale or unload some of their older gear.
Long-term, trying a multitude of plumbing work types, including commercial and residential, will give you more flexibility in the types of jobs you can take on in the future. Even if you are 99.9% sure of which route you want to take after getting licensed, knowledge is power and understanding different styles and systems will only ever benefit you. If there's limited opportunity to try different types through your apprenticeship, ask your employer or those running your course if you can be 'loaned out' for a period to trial alternative work types.
Apprentices - particularly school leavers, often fall into an "immortality fallacy", where they believe that they'll magically avoid injury through pure luck and skill... Unfortunately, no one is immune to injury! Using PPE is key to ensuring you avoid both sudden injuries and long-term physical damage. Gloves, goggles and safety gear are standard for a reason! Using knee pads and ear muffs from the start is a good way to avoid a lifetime of nerve pain and hearing loss.
Sometimes, an apprenticeship doesn't work out. If you find yourself hating your position, ask yourself if it's the particular situation you're in or the job itself. If you're willing to keep trying, just with a different company, avoid burning any bridges during your exit - it may just be a case of different management and learning styles and your paths may cross again.
Be honest with yourself, now is the time to think clearly and critically about your future. An uncomfortable choice and conversation now is better than wasting years learning a trade when it’s not in your future. Otherwise, enjoy this time! Learn as much as possible and make connections. You never know who, or what, may help you in the future.
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