Becoming a plumber in Lafayette, IN, typically begins with an apprenticeship, combining 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 635,000 plumbers nationwide, with a median annual wage of $61,550, equivalent to $29.59 per hour. Apprentices earn an average of $52,000 annually in Lafayette, IN, with experienced plumbers often exceeding $80,000. Vocational training programs, unions, and platforms like Gild help aspiring plumbers find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential.
