I mean really I've been working on plumbing systems since I was 18 years old in the navy I was even oil king for 6 months controlling the balast of the ship ,I'm 34.I've worked in apartment and hotels and under the table jobs all my life.I can weld ,I know trigonometry, I have trouble shot a leaky pipe in a 30 story hotel from the bottom floor in a building where once upon a time they fixed the leaks by welding pennys ,and the best job I can get is $10.25 an hour with an average six month turn over rate.and I bust my *** ,All you freekin baby boomers need to freekin die off so that the rest of us can get a job. OK I'm done venting off.

Hey Keith,
Greetings from a old Navy man. (WW2, Amphibs, Motor Mac 2nd on a LCVP landing craft, So, Pac,) and Merchant Seaman.
So you want to become a plumber? A good plumber will never go hungry.
OK! Here's how most of us got into the trade. You hire on as a helper in a plumbing shopo and keep your eyes open and learn the trade from the plumber you're helping. Some good books to buy would be Audel' Plumbing and Pipe Fitters Library, by Jules Oravetz,Sr.
These are three books dealing with all phases of plumbing, Also pick up a Code Book and study it.
That covers non-union.
If you're lucky enough to be accepted into a Union Apprentice Programe then you will be schooled as well as "on the job training".
I know that myself and my fellow plumbers wish you well in your decision. Good luck and if we can help in any way just ask. Tom

Hi Keith...

I'd recommend approaching all plumbing companies in your area and let them know you are looking to finalize your experience and become a plumber.

After you get hired, you need to get your apprentice card right away and then I'd request a meeting with the plumber's examining board in your state and see if they might recognize some of the experience you got working in the Navy. Letters of recommendation from your superior officers will help here greatly! This could help to get you in for the exams a little quicker!

What state are you in... let me know as I have some connections in Portland, Maine... may be able to get you a meeting with a couple of the larger companies up there... if you are in Maine!

Good luck!

Mark

Marks last sentence reminded me that In Too have Plumbing contacts on the West Coast of Florida. Can we help? Tom