top of page

Precision Plumbing Internship Program: It Works! Put Tools In Schools at Queens Grant High School

Updated: 2 days ago





At Queens Grant High School, students recently got a hands-on introduction to the plumbing trade, thanks to the team from Precision Plumbing. Hosted by radio personality Ray Terry, the event was part of an ongoing effort to show young people there are fulfilling career paths outside of a traditional four-year college degree.

Two Precision Plumbing apprentices, Lewis and Nate, spent the day teaching students how to solder — or as they call it, "sweat" — copper pipes, an essential plumbing skill. What seemed like a small task offered students their first opportunity to get familiar with the tools and techniques plumbers use daily. For Lewis, who has been with the company for three years, the reward is in connecting with the students: “I come for the kids… showing them that there's something besides college out there.”

Both Lewis and Nate are examples of young professionals who found meaningful careers through the trades. Lewis, now 23, faced challenges after high school, supporting himself and his sister without family assistance. Dyslexia complicated his original dream of becoming a detective, but through a connection with a friend’s father, he found his way into plumbing — and hasn’t looked back. “Besides, it's not just a job. It's a family,” he shared.

Nate, 22, had a different route. He took honors and AP classes in high school, fully expecting to attend college. After starting at a community college, he realized the academic route wasn’t for him and pivoted to plumbing through a series of odd jobs. “It’s been very good to me,” he said.

Supporting apprentices like Lewis and Nate is Mary Ann Konopnicki, Precision Plumbing’s head of talent acquisition and a former teacher. Her passion stems from watching her husband thrive in construction management and from seeing students, during her eight years in the classroom, who weren’t aware of career alternatives to college. "I wanted to come into this position not just to bring on new hires, but also to develop this next generation," she explained.

Precision Plumbing’s apprenticeship program currently has 11 committed participants, all building not only their skills but also strong camaraderie. Marianne noted that the apprentices “feel like they're part of a family" and are motivated to build sustainable careers.

Veteran plumber Bruce Ervin, a foreman with Precision for 11 years, also shared his journey. After moving from Virginia to Charlotte in 1996 with no job lined up, Bruce stumbled into plumbing through a friend. With no formal apprenticeship, he learned on the job — and today, his son Chase is following in his footsteps, running his own truck after just a few years of experience.

Bruce emphasized the value of these career day events. Having participated since their inception, he’s seen firsthand how exposure to trades can light a spark in students. “You don't have to have that apprenticeship training to be a good plumber,” Bruce said, highlighting the importance of both formal training and hands-on learning.

Events like these not only showcase viable career alternatives but also introduce students to a supportive community of skilled professionals eager to mentor the next generation. As Precision Plumbing continues to invest in talent development, they’re not just building pipelines — they’re building futures.



Why Consider a Career in Plumbing?

Plumbing is more than just fixing leaks; it's a vital trade that ensures the health and safety of communities. The profession encompasses various specializations, including:

  • Residential Plumbing: Installing and repairing systems in homes.

  • Commercial Plumbing: Working on larger systems in businesses and public buildings.

  • Industrial Plumbing: Handling complex systems in factories and plants.

  • Pipefitting and Steamfitting: Specializing in high-pressure systems.

  • Green Plumbing: Focusing on sustainable and eco-friendly solutions.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 6% growth in employment for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This equates to about 43,300 job openings each year, largely due to the need to replace retiring workers or those transitioning to other roles. RaiseMe+2Bureau of Labor Statistics+2My Future+2My Future+1Bureau of Labor Statistics+1

In terms of compensation, median annual wages vary based on specialization and location:iSeek Careers

Many plumbers also have the opportunity to start their own businesses, offering potential for increased earnings and autonomy.  Resources for Aspiring Plumbers

For young individuals interested in pursuing a plumbing career, several resources can provide guidance and training:

Embarking on a plumbing career not only offers financial stability but also the satisfaction of contributing to essential services in communities. With various specializations and growth opportunities, it's a trade that promises both personal and professional fulfillment.










Comentarios

bottom of page