Becoming a plumber in Chicago, IN typically begins with an apprenticeship, which combines hands-on experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships last about four to five years, requiring many hours of training under licensed professionals. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports 762,600 plumbers nationwide, with 40,670 in Illinois, and projects a 6% job growth from 2022 to 2032. Apprentices earn an average of $1288.04 per week in Illinois, with an annual overtime average of $9,438. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like Gild help aspiring plumbers find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $61,550 annually for experienced professionals.
