What They Cover.
The Apprenticeship Path.
UA apprenticeships cover plumbing, pipefitting, steamfitting, HVAC, and sprinkler fitting — each as a distinct classification. Local JATCs administer the program, and curriculum includes pipesystems, welding fundamentals, blueprint reading, and code compliance. The UA runs advanced welding schools for journeymen seeking endorsements.
Applications are through local JATCs, not the international. Find your local's JATC website, check when they open applications (often 1–2 specific windows per year), and have your high school diploma/GED, transcripts, and algebra scores ready. Aptitude testing is standard at competitive locals.
Major Locals.
Chicago's plumbers local — one of the most active in the country. Known for rigorous apprenticeship and strong contractor relationships. High journeyman scale. Entry is competitive.
One of New York's plumbing locals covering Manhattan and the Bronx. Journeyman wages among the highest in the country. Highly competitive entry — connections and the right timing matter.
San Francisco's plumbers local. Active in commercial, institutional, and residential construction throughout the Bay Area. Strong training program with a well-regarded JATC.
Covers the East Bay including Contra Costa and Alameda counties. Active in commercial, industrial, and refinery-adjacent work. Known for solid apprenticeship training.
Pipefitters and steamfitters local south of Chicago. Very active in industrial and power plant construction in the region. Separate from the plumbers — classification matters.
Southern Nevada's combined plumber/pipefitter/HVAC local. Very active given the pace of construction in the Las Vegas area. A growing local with a strong training program.
The Honest Take.
- 01Five-year apprenticeship with rigorous welding and systems training
- 02UA Star program for out-of-area work and national dispatch
- 03Strong in industrial construction — refineries, power plants, chemical plants
- 04Health and pension benefits are a significant portion of the total compensation package
- 05Sprinkler fitter classification is one of the highest-paid trades in construction
- 06Steamfitter locals in NYC and Chicago are among the highest-compensating locals of any trade
- 01Like IBEW, major metro locals are highly competitive to enter — expect aptitude tests and waitlists
- 02Plumber vs. pipefitter is a distinct classification at many locals — not interchangeable
- 03Industrial work (refineries, power) is project-based; expect periods between assignments
- 04Some markets are heavily non-union — UA density is not uniform across the country
- 05Welding endorsements add significant pay but require additional testing
Trades covered.
All trades →Browse the trades directory for detailed wage data, apprenticeship requirements, and state licensing information for each classification.
Trades directory →