Northwest Arkansas Community College
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Arkansas / Northwest Arkansas Community College
Northwest Arkansas Community College – Bentonville, AR
Programs Offered
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Plumbing Technology
- Technical Certificate in Plumbing Systems
Program Overview
Northwest Arkansas Community College (NWACC) offers a Plumbing Technology program designed to prepare students for careers in residential, commercial, and industrial plumbing. The curriculum combines classroom learning with hands-on experience, teaching students the fundamentals of pipe installation, system design, maintenance, and water distribution systems. Emphasis is placed on plumbing codes, safety, and best practices for efficient and sustainable systems.
Students receive practical training in modern lab environments and gain the technical knowledge required to succeed in the plumbing industry or advance into apprenticeship and licensing programs after graduation.
Hands-On Training
Students participate in guided lab sessions and real-world simulations that include:
- Installation and maintenance of water supply and drainage systems
- Pipefitting, soldering, and welding for various materials
- Plumbing fixture installation and system layout
- Blueprint and code interpretation
- Troubleshooting and repair of water heaters, valves, and pumps
Certifications & Career Preparation
- Prepares students for state plumbing apprenticeship and journeyman licensing exams
- Incorporates OSHA safety training and plumbing code compliance
- Graduates are qualified for entry-level employment as plumbing technicians or apprentices
Career readiness training and job placement resources are available through NWACC’s technical education department and local employer partnerships.
Career Paths & Employment Opportunities
- Residential or Commercial Plumber
- Pipefitter or Steamfitter
- Plumbing Maintenance Technician
- Construction or Utility Installer
Graduates are employed by plumbing contractors, construction firms, and maintenance departments throughout Northwest Arkansas and neighboring states.
Program Length
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS): Approximately 2 years (full-time study)
- Technical Certificate: Typically 1 year
Admission Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED
- Basic math proficiency and problem-solving ability
- Completion of safety and orientation courses prior to lab participation
Financial Aid & Student Support
NWACC provides a variety of financial assistance options, including federal and state grants, workforce scholarships, and career and technical education (CTE) funding. Academic advising, tutoring, and job placement services are available to support student success and post-graduation employment.
Location
Located in Bentonville, Arkansas, Northwest Arkansas Community College serves as one of the leading technical training institutions in the region. The Plumbing Technology program offers students access to modern lab facilities, expert instructors, and industry-aligned curriculum designed to prepare graduates for skilled trade careers.
Cost & Career Outlook
Based on publicly reported data for NorthWest Arkansas Community College (Bentonville, AR) — U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Program Type: Primarily Certificate or Associate Programs
In-State Tuition
Out-of-State Tuition
Median Earnings (10 yrs)
Time to Earn It Back
ROI Grade
About this data: Tuition and earnings are averages from federal College Scorecard data for comparable programs at NorthWest Arkansas Community College. Actual costs may vary by program length, residency, and supplies. Earnings reflect median salaries ten years after entering the institution. This helps estimate how quickly your training can pay off in real-world wages.