Embarking on a career in the plumbing trade in Santa Cruz, CA, typically begins with an apprenticeship, blending hands-on experience with classroom instruction, allowing 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 median annual wage of $61,550, equivalent to $29.59 per hour. In Santa Cruz, plumbers earn an average of $1,463.50 per week, with experienced professionals often surpassing $108,000 annually. Vocational schools, unions, and platforms like Gild assist aspiring plumbers in finding apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential.
