Plumbing Apprenticeship Program FAQs
If you have questions, jot them down to discuss during your phone interview. Here are a few answers to questions to build a better understanding. If you need more clarity, we can discuss them at your interview as well.
What experience do I need?
No previous plumbing experience is needed for this program. As long as our minimum qualifications are met, you can apply and participate in the program. Qualifications include:
- Must be 18+
- Has a High School diploma or equivalent.
- Has a valid driver’s license with no major incidents in the last three years (non-CDL)
- Ability to lift and carry 125 pounds
- Ability to pass a drug test and background check
- Living in the greater Denver/Boulder area
Is there a cost to participate?
Apprentices will pay for books and online courses required for the classroom learning. Those costs are currently around $350.
You will also require a basic set of tools to begin, but we give you a list of those tools and you have about 6 weeks to get the basics. This cost will vary, but we find them range from $200-$700 depending on brand and whether you buy them used or new. Additional needed tools will be ones you acquire as you go along in your career.
There is a grant available for apprentices who may find this to be a financial hardship. Ask us about this and we can connect you to a few resources. Financial obstacles are not a reason to exclude yourself from this program – we can help!
What tools do I need for the Plumber Apprenticeship?
We will provide you a tool list, and you will be working with trainers who will show you the tools needed for the job at hand. You don’t need any tools to begin your apprenticeship, but you will need them by the end of your first six-week training series.
If this is financially difficult for you, talk to us about a few options we have to help. Remember, any tools you buy are yours to keep, whether or not you continue with us, or continue as a plumber.
What is my schedule?
This is a full-time program. Instead of attending school and working, as many students must do, you will train and work for us as you build your skills. Most schedules will be approximately 7:30AM to approximately 4:30PM, Monday through Friday. Saturday shifts are available after certain skill levels are met and offer a higher pay level.
What is my pay during the program?
We will answer this question during your interview process as it may vary. As of 9/15/22, the training wage is $20/hour for the first year, $21 for the second year, $22.50 for the third year, and $23 for the fourth year. Wages are likely to exceed these amounts with inflation and cost of living adjustments over the next four years.
Upon completion of the program, a Journeyman Plumber can expect to make $27 – $40 an hour in today’s wages, depending on experience, project, and demand.
Do I earn any benefits?
Yes, you will be treated as every other employee and are entitled to Worker’s Compensation benefits, health insurance, dental, vision, and financial products. We provide at no cost to you: uniforms, use of a company vehicle with paid fuel and insurance, work cell phone and more.
As a family-owned company, we also host events such as potlucks, BBQ and holiday parties and you and your family are invited.
What happens after the four-year program is complete?
After you complete the four-year Plumbing Apprenticeship program, you will have a Nationally Recognized Certificate of Completion from the Department of Labor to verify the hours you have worked and trained as a plumber.
From there, you can continue to work for Garvin’s Sewer Service at a renegotiated rate of pay, or you can choose to work elsewhere. There is no additional commitment to us, although we’d love to have you stay.
Do I have to commit to the full four-years?
Your registered hours will count towards your DORA registration whether or not you complete the program with us. We consider the first year to be probationary, meaning either party may choose to end participation in the program at will. We understand life circumstances change, sometimes by choice, and sometimes by chance.
Giving two-weeks advance notice of desire to vacate the program is appreciated and allows the participant to re-enter the program and/or be eligible for employment in the future.