PLUMBING & HEATING

Students enrolled in plumbing and heating acquire the basic skills necessary for the proper and safe use of plumbing and heating materials, supplies, tools and equipment. Students who successfully complete this course will be able to demonstrate competent knowledge and skills in the performance of trade tasks such as: assembling and installing air, gas, water and waste disposal systems; cutting, reaming and threading piping materials, waterproofing and sealing joints; testing entire systems for leaks through the use of pressure testing devices; installing gas, water, and sanitary plumbing fixtures and equipment; reading and implementing blueprint drawings; and designing plumbing and heating systems.

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Entry-level earnings
Plumbers, Pipefitters, Steamfitters $28,800-$36,500
Helpers – Plumbers, Pipefitters, Steamfitters $17,800-$19,800
Maintenance & Repair Worker $18,700-$24,100
Control & Valve Installers/Repairers $24,100-$35,900

Career potential earnings
Plumbers, Pipefitters, Steamfitters $46,100-$71,000
Helpers – Plumbers, Pipefitters, Steamfitters $23,500-$35,100
Maintenance & Repair Worker $31,600-$46,100
Control & Valve Installers/Repairers $48,200-$63,100

Student certifications
NOCTI – National Occupational Competency Testing Institute Certification
NCCER – National Center for Construction Education and Research
OSHA Safety Certification

Accreditations

NCCER

INSTRUCTOR

Mr. Thomas J. Dietrich, Jr.

Biography
I began working in the plumbing and heating field with my father who was a plumbing and heating contractor. I received an engineering degree from Penn State and continued to work at various corporations in the mechanical engineering field. In addition, I spent eight years as owner and operator of my own plumbing and heating company. In my off hours, I spend time instructing new teachers in the vocational education field for Temple University.

Date of hire: March 1996

Education
Vocational Education II Teaching Certification – Temple University
Associate Engineering Degree – Penn State
Master in Refrigeration & Air Conditioning from NRI Schools

Certifications
Vocational II Teaching Certificate
Master Plumber License
Emergency Medical Technician Instructor for the Department of Health

Experience
I worked in the plumbing, heating and air conditioning field involving engineering design, technical support, and employee supervision and I owned and operated my own business for a total of 26 years experience.

Community Service
I have been involved in the fire and emergency services field for 29 years.

Interests
Camping, biking, hiking, and music

Message
The plumbing and heating trade is an occupation that will remain as long as we need bathrooms. This occupation cannot be impacted by foreign competition and continuously has openings for new employees. This is a great opportunity with great pay and a secure future.