I'm 15 almost 16 and thinking about taking a plumbing course and going to collage but maths Is not my strong point. Is that a problem? I'm not bad at maths i know my my add substract and divide but algebra and stuff like that I'm useless at?
Responses (2)
First of all as a plumber you won't be needing to do any heavy math. You'll be apprenticed usually for like 4 years. You'll only need to be proficient at arithmetic once you have the job. However if you're going to college it is advisable to be somewhat decent at basic algebra, as you might need to look at graphs. But anything higher than geometry won't be needed in the real job, as most of it is pretty hands on. Just focus more on your business skills like being able to talk confidently and be able to cite the problem right away. But in answer to your question it's a yes and no. Yes being it's required at college, no the fact that it is not a necessary skill being a plumber.
Plumbing can be a very lucrative profession depending on what you put into it.
When I stated my 5 year (10,000 hour) apprenticeship and 744 hours of class room studies codes ,theory then another 5 years working for a master plumber before I became eligible to take my 4 part masters exams. There is no short cuts to become a really skilled mechanic as one should know how to weld, braze, solder, thread and be proficient in various ways to connect piping including Pyrex and Duriron
Mathematics are very important to find velocity, fixture unit demands and how to properly size a system.
Once you have the proper credentials you can charge over $700 per hr. as I know what I charge being an expert witness in plumbing -heating -fire suppression and gas fitting and although it is boring being in court it is a good way to supplement your income as you get older
If your just looking to make a decent living you can just do sewer and drain cleaning with proper training and earn over $75,000 a year being self employed.