In the United States, becoming a plumber offers many benefits ranging from job security and financial stability to personal fulfillment and opportunities for entrepreneurship. In this brief article brought to you by Rooter Hero Plumbing & Air, we explore the key advantages of pursuing a career in plumbing.

We will always need plumbers

One of the most compelling reasons to become a plumber is the consistent and growing demand for skilled tradespeople in the field. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a steady increase in employment for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters, with an expected growth rate of 4% from 2019 to 2029.

This growth is driven by the ongoing need for routine plumbing service and repair of existing plumbing systems, as well as new construction projects. Plus, the aging workforce in the plumbing industry is leading to a wave of retirements, creating even more job opportunities for new entrants.

Plumbing is a money-making industry

Plumbing is a well-paying trade that offers financial stability and a good standard of living. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters was $56,330 in 2020, with the top 10% earning more than $98,990.

Unlike many professions, plumbers often “earn while they learn” through paid apprenticeships, which means they can start earning money without the burden of student loan debt. Furthermore, experienced plumbers who run their own businesses or specialize in certain areas can earn even more.

There are opportunities for growth and specialization

The plumbing industry offers many opportunities for career advancement and specialization. Starting as an apprentice, plumbers can progress to journeyman status and eventually become master plumbers. By then, they can take on more complex projects and assume supervisory roles.

Specializations such as pipefitting, steamfitting, or working with gas lines can also open up higher-paying and niche market opportunities. Plumbers with entrepreneurial ambitions can even start their own businesses, offering services directly to clients and potentially growing their operations into larger enterprises.

See the fruits of your labor

Many plumbers find personal fulfillment in their work thanks to the tangible, immediate impact they have on people’s lives. Fixing a broken pipe, installing a new water heater, or ensuring that a home has clean, safe water provides a sense of accomplishment and makes a real difference in the community. The appreciation from satisfied customers and the pride in solving complex problems contribute to high job satisfaction levels among plumbers.

Flexibility and independence

Plumbing offers a degree of flexibility and independence that many other careers do not. Plumbers often have the ability to set their own schedules, particularly if they are self-employed. This flexibility allows for a better work-life balance and the ability to manage personal commitments more effectively.

Additionally, self-employed plumbers have the independence to choose their projects and clients, leading to greater autonomy and control over their professional lives.