Indiana State Plumbers Association
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Indiana / Indiana State Plumbers Association
Indiana State Plumbers Association – Indianapolis, IN
Program Information
The Indiana State Plumbers Association provides one of the most established and widely respected plumbing apprenticeship programs in the state. Designed to prepare individuals for long-term careers in the plumbing and piping industry, the program blends rigorous classroom instruction with extensive hands-on training. Apprentices learn to install, maintain, and repair plumbing systems found in residential homes, commercial buildings, and industrial facilities. Training covers all essential aspects of the trade, including water supply lines, drainage systems, venting, fixtures, water heaters, pumps, and piping installation.
Students also receive thorough instruction in plumbing codes, OSHA safety standards, blueprint interpretation, and jobsite communication. Because the plumbing industry requires precise work and complete adherence to building regulations, the program emphasizes code compliance and proper installation techniques from day one. Apprentices typically work under the supervision of experienced journeyman plumbers, gaining real-world experience on active job sites. This combination of classroom learning and field experience ensures that graduates enter the plumbing workforce with the knowledge, confidence, and problem-solving abilities needed to succeed.
The program also places a strong emphasis on professional development. Apprentices learn how to communicate with customers, coordinate with contractors on large job sites, and work efficiently in a team setting. Many apprentices also gain exposure to specialized areas such as hydronics, backflow prevention, medical gas installation, and advanced piping systems used in commercial and industrial projects. These skills make graduates highly competitive when entering the skilled trades workforce.
Upon completion of the apprenticeship, individuals are well-prepared to take state licensing exams and transition into full-time roles as licensed plumbers. With the ongoing demand for skilled tradespeople throughout Indiana—especially in new construction, manufacturing facilities, commercial buildings, and renovation projects—graduates often find rewarding employment opportunities immediately after program completion.
Program Length
4–5 years, including 8,000 hours of supervised on-the-job training and related classroom instruction.
Program Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED
- Strong mechanical aptitude
- Physical ability to perform plumbing tasks
Apprenticeship Cost & Career Outlook
Indiana State Plumbers Association is a Registered Apprenticeship Program — meaning you can earn while you learn through paid on-the-job training in Plumbing.
- Paid on-the-job training with step increases as you progress
- Classroom / technical instruction is part of the program structure
- Training costs are often low — but you may still pay for tools, books, or fees
- Credential earned at completion is recognized by employers in the industry
Registered apprenticeships are overseen by the U.S. Department of Labor or a State Apprenticeship Agency. Because these programs aren’t traditional colleges, College Scorecard tuition and earnings data usually doesn’t apply.
Step-by-Step Career Guides
The programs and apprenticeships listed on this page relate to hands-on skilled trades. Explore the guides below to learn about training paths, licensing, salaries, and what to expect in each career field.