Make The Change With Plumbing Training & Develop A New Career

No matter what industries are declining or prospering, we can't do without plumbers. It's true to say we've seen a temporary lull in construction, but the demand for domestic plumbers still exceeds supply. How many times do you hear about the number of calls someone had to make to find a plumber who was free to stop their shower from leaking? And then of course as people improve their homes, they need the services of a good plumber to fit the hot and cold water systems etc. So training to become a plumber might just be the best career move you could make!

Build A Business Of Your Own

Many people train as plumbers so that they can join the ranks of the self- employed and have more control over their lives. In fact almost all of those entering the industry beyond their mid twenties work independently in private houses. When you look at the kind of jobs that are around for anyone who's got a decent work ethic, it's a sensible move.

As time goes on, most of your work should come as a result of recommendations from others - always ask for referrals. A training college will cover all your trade skills, but your attitude and manners will be down to you. Present yourself well, and work can come from surprising sources. Courtesy and respect can go an awful long way.

Plumbers working in the commercial environment usually work regular hours. If you plan to work for private customers though, your hours can be much more varied. Be prepared to work later to give householders quotations for home improvements - once they trust you they'll be willing to leave you in their home during the day.

Comprehensive Free E-Book

No matter what skills you start off with, the right training and qualifications will quickly launch you into your new career. To help you gain a better understanding of the different training paths available, we've written a very useful e-book that you can access without charge. There are many training companies offering plumbing courses in the UK, so you'll find the information really useful when comparing the benefits of each one.

We'd suggest you give yourself some time to read and digest the contents. And then read this feature again, and visit some of the college websites listed here. (By typing in 'Ctrl D' you can Bookmark this page for easy reference.)

You'll Always Be Able To Find Work...

There's a good deal of security when you've got the right plumbing skills. You'll be able to turn your hand to any number of jobs. The work is very satisfying, as you're either seeing a job through from beginning to end, or solving problems for people when emergencies occur. No two days are the same - you're not stuck in the same place day in day out, and if you don't want to take a job on, you don't have to!

Self-employed plumbers need to learn how to quote for jobs competitively and profitably. You can either charge a daily rate, or a price for the job. Whichever you do, make sure you've included all your expenses. You'll get into the swing of things once you've done a few. Some of the more commercial plumbing courses will teach you about business practices.

What's The Next Step?

Look for industry recognised City & Guilds courses. These are available from both technical colleges and private training companies. Youngsters generally try to find a company to work with so they can complete NVQ qualifications alongside their C&G's.

Older students generally enrol on part time courses and study around their existing commitments. This is why the various plumbing training companies offer courses that students can go through in their own time.

Commercial trainers have higher fees than FE colleges, but students can progress more quickly if they purely concentrate on the skills needed for self-employed domestic work.

Useful Add-Ons

Whichever course you decide on, you should emerge with at least basic plumbing skills in sanitation systems, hot and cold water systems and more. You might also consider some ancillary extras so that when you're doing domestic jobs you can cover most things yourself without having to sub certain jobs out. It's very useful to know more about kitchen or bathroom fitting, or have expertise in gas.

You don't have to take everything at once, but add more skills as you go along. You'll attract a bigger customer base and keep more of the profits for yourself. Customers will be happier if they only have you to deal with - it's much more straightforward than trying to juggle several trades.

To sum up, if you're seeking a new career in a popular and well-paid sector, with job satisfaction and long-term security, you could just find your ideal work is plumbing.