Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Plumbing Schools in Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Jonesboro, Little Rock, and Springdale.
Interested in a rewarding plumbing career in Arkansas? Knowing where to start can be challenging.
This article highlights the top plumbing schools in Arkansas that offer the best training and career opportunities. Whether you’re just starting or looking to advance your skills, you’ll find crucial information to make an informed decision.
NWA Plumbing School – Plumbing Apprenticeship Training
The NWA Plumbing School provides top-tier Plumbing Apprenticeship Training approved by the U.S. Department of Labor and the Arkansas Department of Career Education. With over four decades of experience, they are dedicated to fostering skilled plumbers in Northwest Arkansas.
To enroll, you must be employed by an Arkansas Master Plumber and register with the following governing bodies:
- U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Apprenticeship
- Arkansas Department of Health, Plumbing Division
- Arkansas Department of Career Education
The program curriculum includes instruction aimed at enhancing your knowledge and skills for a professional plumbing career. Here are some critical aspects of the training:
- Hands-On Learning: Gain practical experience to ensure you are job-ready.
- Regulatory Knowledge: Understand and comply with relevant health and safety regulations.
For more details on hours, prices, and unique program features, contact the school directly.
Central Arkansas Apprenticeship Training Committee – Plumbing Apprenticeship Program
The Central Arkansas Apprenticeship Training Committee (CAATC) operates under the Pulaski County Master Plumbers Association, established in 1967. They focus on modern sanitary plumbing standards to safeguard public health and safety.
Here’s what’s included in their program:
- Plumbing Math: Develop essential calculation skills.
- Blueprint Reading: Learn to interpret and create plumbing diagrams.
- Arkansas Plumbing and Fuel Gas Codes: Gain a thorough understanding of state regulations.
The application process involves:
- Application Request: Submit a request to receive an application.
- Interview: Participate in an interview as part of the selection process.
- Employment: Secure a position with a licensed master plumber.
The training covers entry fees, offers incremental wage increases, and requires low monthly payments. Their state-certified instructors ensure a 100% passing rate. For more information, visit their website.
NorthWest Arkansas Community College – Plumbing Apprenticeship Program
The NWACC Plumbing Apprenticeship Program offers comprehensive, hands-on training. Applicants need a GED or high school diploma. You must be at least 16 with parental permission and employed under a Master Plumber in Arkansas.
Key program features:
- Four-Year Duration: Combines 640 hours of instruction with 8,000 hours of on-the-job training.
- Credentialing: Obtain Arkansas Journeyman Plumber license and U.S. Department of Labor credential upon completion.
- Student Services: Support throughout your apprenticeship journey.
This rigorous program prepares apprentices well for the Journeyman Plumbing Exam. For complete details, check the NWACC program page.
ASU-Beebe Heber Springs – Plumbing Apprenticeship Program
ASU-Beebe Heber Springs offers a Plumbing Apprenticeship Program approved by the Arkansas Department of Career Education State Apprenticeship Office. Those employed by an Arkansas Master Plumber are eligible.
Program specifics include:
- Four-Year Program: Includes 2,000 hours of on-the-job training annually and 160 annual classroom hours.
- Experienced Instructors: Teaching conducted at the John L. Latimer Skills Training Center.
For more information and to contact the program directly, visit their website.
Fort Smith Schools – Adult Plumbing Apprenticeship Program
The Fort Smith Schools offer a four-year Adult Plumbing Apprenticeship Program in collaboration with the Fort Smith Adult Education Center and the Arkansas Construction Education Foundation.
Highlights of their program:
- 640 Classroom Hours: Comprehensive instruction based on NCCER standards.
- 8,000 On-the-Job Training Hours: Real-world training to prepare apprentices for the journeyman plumber exam.
- Certification: Achieve certification upon completion.
Participants must secure employment before enrollment, but there are also HVAC education options without employer sponsorship. For more information, visit their program page.
University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville – Plumbing Apprenticeship Program
At UACCB, the Plumbing Apprenticeship Program is designed to help you become a registered plumbing apprentice with the U.S. Department of Labor.
Key features include:
- Employment Requirement: Must be employed by a licensed Master Plumber.
- Age and Education: Must be 18 years old with a high school diploma.
- Financial Aid: Available through the Arkansas Workforce Challenge Scholarship.
This program emphasizes hands-on experience, ensuring you acquire essential skills. To learn more, visit the UACCB program page.
Associated Builders & Contractors (ABC) of Arkansas – Plumbing Apprenticeship Training Program
The Associated Builders & Contractors (ABC) of Arkansas offers a highly structured Plumbing Apprenticeship Training Program. This program is formally registered with the U.S. Department of Labor, ensuring that you receive recognized credentials upon completion.
Key features of the program include:
- 8,000 Hours of On-the-Job Training: Gain practical experience working directly in the field.
- 640 Classroom Hours: Cover essential knowledge and skills through NCCER-standard curriculum.
- Evening Classes: Held on Monday and Wednesday evenings for flexibility.
- Portable Credentials: Earn a credential recognized across the industry.
Tuition costs $450 for ABC members and $550 for non-members, making it accessible to a wide range of apprentices.
For more detailed information, visit the ABC of Arkansas apprenticeship page.
Central Arkansas Apprenticeship and Training Committee – Plumbing Program
The Central Arkansas Apprenticeship and Training Committee offers a robust four-year plumbing program. This initiative focuses on producing highly skilled plumbers through structured training.
Program aspects include:
- 576 Classroom Hours: Spanning over four years.
- On-the-Job Training: Earn while you learn with a direct hands-on approach.
- Industry Standards: Curriculum aligned with industry needs.
Graduates from this program are known for their readiness to meet professional demands right out of training due to its comprehensive approach.
To find out more details, check their official program page.
Kimbel Mechanical Systems – Plumbing Apprenticeship Program
Kimbel Mechanical Systems offers a specialized Plumbing Apprenticeship Program, focused on combining rigorous classroom instruction with intensive on-the-job training.
Important details about the program:
- 640 Classroom Hours: Covering both theory and practical skills.
- 8,000 On-the-Job Hours: Prepare primarily in residential and multi-family construction projects.
- Tuition Reimbursement: Available after the first year post-licensure.
- Convenient Payroll Deduction: Program costs are conveniently deducted from your paycheck.
This program is available exclusively to apprentices in Arkansas, ensuring local industries benefit from highly skilled professionals.
For comprehensive details, visit the Kimbel Mechanical Systems apprenticeship page.
Ultimate Technical Academy – Fast Track Plumbing Training Program
Ultimate Technical Academy offers a unique one-week Fast Track Plumbing Training Program. This program is developed to cater both to beginners and experienced technicians, providing flexible and efficient training.
Highlights of the training program:
- One-Week Duration: Intensive training to ensure quick entry or advancement in the field.
- Hands-On Practice: Emphasis on practical skills alongside classroom theory.
- Flexible Scheduling: Allows students to work at their own pace.
- Provided Tools: Equip students with essential tools and testing instruments.
If you are looking for a quick yet thorough training program, visit the Ultimate Technical Academy website for more details.
Choosing the Right Plumbing School in Arkansas
When selecting a plumbing school in Arkansas, consider the following factors to ensure you make the best choice for your career:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is recognized by accrediting bodies for quality assurance.
- Apprenticeship Opportunities: Look for schools that offer robust apprenticeship programs to gain real-world experience.
- Coursework Relevance: The curriculum should cover essential skills and industry standards, preparing you for certification exams like the Journeyman Plumber Exam.
- Tuition Costs: Compare the tuition fees and available financial aid to manage your education expenses effectively.
- Job Placement Rates: Schools with high job placement rates usually have strong industry connections and can help you secure employment after completion.
By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision about the best plumbing school to meet your educational and career goals.
Plumbing Schools By State
Sum Up Your Plumbing Education Journey
Embarking on a plumbing career in Arkansas begins with choosing the right educational path. The schools and apprenticeship programs outlined in this article represent the best options available, each offering unique features and benefits.
Take your next step toward a promising plumbing career by exploring these top plumbing schools in Arkansas and their programs, ensuring a well-rounded education and secure future in the industry.