For anyone considering a career in plumbing, as with any career change, there are a few common questions you’ll likely find yourself asking before deciding whether the industry is right for you.

What sort of person does the job suit? What training and qualifications are involved? What costs are involved with the training? What progression opportunities are available? What is the earning potential? All of these are important considerations that will hold different weights for different people. 

What kind of person does a career in plumbing suit?

Working as a plumber suits those who prefer their day-to-day work to be hands-on and physical. It’s also a career that requires good people skills, which are essential in communicating clearly with clients and other tradespeople on larger jobs. Along with this, plumbers need to be good problem solvers and have a high level of attention to detail.

In terms of age, a career in plumbing appeals to a wide range of people. From school leavers to career changers, becoming a plumber is an achievable prospect for most, with the right guidance and access to training.

Why choose a career in plumbing?

As the UK construction industry still battles with workforce shortages, tradespeople with in-demand skills like plumbing can find themselves in a strong position when it comes to job prospects, security and progression. 

According to data shared by Approach Personnel in December, plumbers and heating engineers are expected to be the second most sought-after trades this year, due to a shortfall of 59,000 workers. 

Typical plumbing training route and experience

Generally speaking, the three main entry routes for plumbing are apprenticeships, college courses and private training providers. While apprenticeships are still a great option for school leavers, and college courses can be useful either at sixth form or for part-time learning as a mature student, they tend to be unfeasible for those later in life who are looking to change careers and need to minimise the time spent training. 

Learn plumbing with a private training provider

This is where private providers, like Able Skills, can be invaluable, offering a far more efficient way for newcomers to break into the industry. As an example, the City & Guilds Level 2 Plumbing Course can take you from beginner to boasting a comprehensive understanding of domestic plumbing in just six weeks, with an industry-recognised qualification to back it up. 

To make training more accessible to as wide a group as possible, it is possible to undertake the City & Guilds Level 2 Plumbing Course part-time at weekends or as hybrid distance learning, giving you even more options. 

Working as a plumber’s mate

For those who are in a position to, gaining work as a plumber’s mate while completing training is a great way to boost your employability once your training is completed. While career changers might not be able to spare time to do this every day, even a day a week, or a weekend, could be priceless in terms of on-the-job experience. It’s also a great way to build industry connections that could lead to a full-time job once your training is done. 

Why get an NVQ in plumbing? 

Once you have finished your initial training and secured employment, a common next step is to complete an NVQ assessment. This qualification is a workplace assessment that proves your skills and competence. 

Gaining an NVQ as a plumber is generally required for those seeking to obtain their CSCS Card to undertake site work. 

Plan your plumbing career pathway

From here, other progression options might include obtaining your gas qualifications, which is a great way to expand the services you offer. Similarly, completing commercial plumbing qualifications is a logical next step in increasing your workload, as is training in specialist areas such as heat pumps, helping to future-proof your career. 

An example of a plumbing career pathway might look like:

  • Enrol in a City & Guilds Level 2 plumbing course
  • Gain work as a plumber’s mate while undertaking initial training
  • Seek employment as a domestic plumber upon completion of training
  • Take your NVQ assessment and gain your CSCS card, unlocking site work
  • Pursue further training in commercial plumbing, gas qualifications, and specialist areas such as heat pumps
  • Optional: Consider setting up your own plumbing business

A Level 2 plumbing course is the ideal starting point for those looking to take their first steps in the plumbing sector. This package of learning is designed and taught by time-served industry experts, helping you get your career off to the best possible start. You can find more information here.