Becoming a plumber in Alexandria, VA, typically begins with an apprenticeship, combining hands-on experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships last about four years, requiring many hours of training under licensed professionals. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports 762,600 plumbers nationwide, with a median annual wage of $61,550, equivalent to $29.59 per hour. Apprentices in Alexandria earn an average of $912.41 per week, with experienced plumbers potentially earning over $1,200 per week. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like Gild help aspiring plumbers find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential.
