Translating…
Plumbers are skilled workers specializing in installing and maintaining systems for drinking water, drainage, and sewage. They work with pipes, tubing, plumbing fixtures and also equipment like water heaters. Since part of every developed economy revolves around access to clean water, the plumbing industry is a basic building block for major towns and cities.
It was a rare industry until modern cities began to grow and expand during the 1800s. More and more people were living in close quarters and waste disposal a huge public health concern. The current system for disposal was simply collecting it and dumping it somewhere else on the ground or into water, which is not effective by any means. Authorities began to press for more effective systems of waste removal. Progress was slow, but eventually led to the development of underground systems that eliminated cesspits and open waste ditches.
There are many different kinds of plumbing fixtures that can be installed. The design and purpose is generally tailored to the person who will be using it. There are bathroom facilities, like showers, tubs, Jacuzzi tubs, toilets, urinals, sinks, and drinking fountains. The set up is also important to appliances like washing machines and fridges.
Garbage disposals are also an important plumbing apparatus although their use is somewhat controversial. In most European countries, they are not used because the excess of organic material in the water requires a much higher capacity treatment plant. There have also been environmental and political debates about using them in the United States. They were actually banned in New York City for many years, although that was rescinded in 1997.
Professional plumbers are actually extremely well-paid, but the working conditions can be strenuous. For this reason, it is not a profession that generally attracts very many young workers.
Plumbers should have a high school diploma, with courses in math and science. Shop and vocational training can also be very useful when becoming trained. School guidance counselors will generally have this information and can inform you which classes will be useful for you to sign up for. You may even benefit from spending a full day shadowing a local plumber to get a feel for the work that you will be doing.
Look online to see what opportunities are available in your area. Local plumber’s unions will offer 4-year apprenticeship positions which offer both classroom work and paid on-the-job training. Apprentice program selection is very competitive. Trade schools will also offer training, and often have job placement programs for well-qualified graduates. It is also worth asking smaller contractors if they offer apprenticeship positions. Pay will be minimal, but again you will have on-the-job training and save money on course fees.
Plumbing is a good job market because there is plenty of work to be done at all times and it is rare that people are able to do it themselves. Job opportunities will continue to expand throughout the next several years with remodeling and retrofitting of old buildings and the construction of new ones.