Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 74 – Wilmington
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Delaware / Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 74 – Wilmington
Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 74 – Wilmington, DE
Program Information
Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 74, based in Wilmington, Delaware, operates a registered apprenticeship program affiliated with the United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipe Fitting Industry. The program provides structured training for individuals pursuing careers in plumbing, pipefitting, and related mechanical systems. Instruction is delivered through a combination of supervised on-the-job training and formal classroom education, following standards established for UA apprenticeship programs.
Apprentices receive on-the-job training by working under the supervision of experienced journeypersons on active job sites. This work-based training allows apprentices to develop practical skills related to the installation, maintenance, and repair of piping systems used in residential, commercial, and industrial environments. Tasks may include assembling piping systems, installing fixtures and mechanical components, interpreting drawings, and following established safety procedures.
Classroom instruction supports hands-on training by covering technical subjects required for the trade. Coursework typically includes blueprint reading, piping layouts, mathematics for the trades, material identification, safety practices, and applicable codes and standards. Apprentices are trained to work with a range of piping materials commonly used in the industry, such as copper, steel, and plastic piping systems. Instruction emphasizes accuracy, adherence to specifications, and safe work practices across all phases of training.
The apprenticeship is structured to develop progressive skill levels over time. As apprentices advance through the program, they are introduced to more complex systems and responsibilities, building toward the knowledge and competencies required of a journeyperson. Completion of the program qualifies apprentices to work independently within the scope of the trade, subject to applicable licensing and local requirements.
Apprenticeship Structure
The Local 74 apprenticeship follows a registered, multi-year training model that combines paid on-the-job training with required classroom instruction. Apprentices accumulate a specified number of work hours each year while completing related technical instruction. Advancement through the program is based on meeting work-hour requirements, successful completion of coursework, and demonstration of skill competency.
Hands-On Trade Training
Hands-on training is the foundation of the apprenticeship experience. Apprentices perform real work on job sites, learning how to apply classroom knowledge in practical settings. This training reinforces problem-solving, teamwork, and jobsite safety while exposing apprentices to the daily responsibilities of plumbing and pipefitting professionals.
Learning Environment
Classroom instruction is typically delivered through a joint apprenticeship training committee (JATC) structure associated with the union. Training is conducted in a structured environment that emphasizes technical accuracy, safety compliance, and industry standards. Instruction complements on-the-job experience and supports long-term skill development throughout the apprenticeship.
Program Length
The apprenticeship program is designed to be completed over a five-year period. During this time, apprentices complete a combination of required on-the-job training hours and classroom instruction as outlined by apprenticeship standards.
Program Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Submission of an application to the Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 74 apprenticeship program
- Completion of an aptitude assessment or interview process, as required by the apprenticeship committee
- Ability to perform physically demanding work, including lifting, standing, and working in varied environments
- Reliable transportation and ability to report to job sites as assigned
- Compliance with apprenticeship program policies and safety requirements
Apprenticeship Cost & Career Outlook
Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 74 – Wilmington is a Registered Apprenticeship Program — meaning you can earn while you learn through paid on-the-job training in HVAC.
- 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.