Embarking on a career in the plumbing trade in Athens, TN, typically begins with an apprenticeship, blending hands-on experience with classroom instruction, enabling individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships generally last about four to five years, requiring extensive training under licensed professionals. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are approximately 736,000 plumbers nationwide, with a robust job growth projection of 6% from 2023 to 2033. Apprentices in Athens earn an average of $50 per hour, with an annual overtime average of $10,000. Vocational schools, unions, and platforms like Gild assist aspiring plumbers in finding apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $60,000 annually for experienced professionals.
