By Cindy Sheridan, CAE, Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Educational Foundation
Several years ago, former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg said: “If your kid wants to go to college or become a plumber, you've got to think long and hard. If he's not going to go to a great school and he's not super smart academically, but is smart in terms of dealing with people and that sort of thing, being a plumber is a great job because you have pricing power and you have an enormous skill.”
That observation is even truer today. While we in the industry have always understood the respect, opportunities and great salaries that plumbing, heating and cooling jobs provide, recent statistics offer proof.
There is huge demand for plumbing-heating-cooling (p-h-c) professionals in all areas of the country. The industry is projected to need 138,000 new employees by 2020, and these are not jobs that can be outsourced. Further, this projection does not take into account the baby boomers who are retiring from the industry. Practically speaking, there will always be demand for people with the skills to install, maintain and repair our sanitation and comfort systems. Additionally, the need will increase for skilled professionals in the areas of sustainability, smart technology systems, water infrastructure development and construction design.
The (p-h-c) profession offers great pay with unlimited job opportunities. An average technician in the industry earns $49,000 per year plus benefits. And although all workers entering the industry need training after high school, many earn while they learn by working at a p-h-c business while going to school to learn other skills necessary to succeed in this high-demand career. Many will start as technicians but take advantage of career advancement opportunities ranging from estimation and project management to sales and management. The work is challenging, and employees are as likely to be carrying an iPad as a wrench.
Consider also that p-h-c careers are not just for men. In fact, the number of women going into the industry is growing. Additionally, this career is a great fit for all cultural backgrounds. It can also lead to the American dream of owning your own business.
If you ask someone why they like working in this industry, they will probably tell you that it’s because every day is different. They get to solve problems, be creative, help people and protect public health and safety. People love these careers because they make a good living that will support a family; jobs are available in every city and town across the country; and they can own their own businesses.
Check out PHCC’s new career website, where you can help connect future workers with industry professionals in their states to explore training opportunities and get answers to top questions.
This a nice article thanks for sharing
Posted by: Hawi Moore | 05/18/2017 at 01:49 AM
they looks like professional plumbers
Posted by: local plumber chicago | 06/03/2017 at 10:15 AM