Plumbers design, install, test, and maintain essential piping networks, fixtures, and waste disposal systems in residential homes, commercial complexes, and public facilities. Mountain Gateway Community College’s NCCER Plumbing Program delivers a comprehensive four-level curriculum that equips students with practical mechanical skills, blueprint interpretation, trade mathematics, and strict plumbing code knowledge. Fully aligned with National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) standards, this program complies with U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) Related Technical Instruction (RTI) guidelines for registered apprenticeships.
Program at a Glance
| Program Aspect | Details |
| Award / Credential | NCCER Plumbing Credentials (Levels 1 through 4) |
| Apprenticeship Status | Complies with U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) Apprenticeship RTI Standards |
| Core Focus | DWV Systems, Potable Water Lines, Fixtures, Fuel Gas Piping & Plumbing Code |
| Code Compliance | International Plumbing Code (IPC) / National Standard Plumbing Code Integration |
| Funding Eligibility | FastForward Eligible (Pays 2/3 of tuition for eligible VA residents) |
| Instructor | Mike Hendrickson — mhendrickson@mgcc.edu | (540) 863-2880 |
| Career Coach | Robin Jennings — rjennings@mgcc.edu | (540) 863-2899 |
💰 FastForward Financial Assistance Available — Pay Only 1/3 Tuition
Qualifying Virginia residents can receive FastForward state funding, which covers two-thirds of the tuition cost for this high-demand skilled trade credential. Contact our FastForward Career Coach to verify eligibility and register.
What You Will Learn
Students progress through four comprehensive levels of technical classroom instruction and hands-on plumbing shop practice:
- Plumbing Safety, Tools & Craft Math: Master jobsite safety, personal protective equipment (PPE), trench safety, plumbing math, and hand/power pipe-fitting tools.
- Drainage, Waste & Vent (DWV) Systems: Layout, size, and install plastic (PVC/ABS), copper, cast iron, and DWV piping networks according to health codes.
- Water Supply & Distribution Piping: Install potable hot/cold water supply lines, backflow preventers, valves, pressure-reducing devices, and water heaters (tank and tankless).
- Fixtures, Appliances & Fuel Gas Piping: Connect sinks, toilets, showers, commercial fixtures, gas piping, and venting systems.
- Blueprints, Isometrics & Plumbing Code: Read architectural plans, interpret isometric plumbing drawings, and navigate state and local plumbing codes for inspection compliance.
Industry Credentials & Apprenticeship Alignment
Completing the NCCER Plumbing curriculum yields portable credentials recognized by plumbing contractors, industrial employers, and trade unions nationwide:
- National NCCER Automated National Registry System (ANRS) Transcripts & Cards (Levels 1–4)
- U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) Apprenticeship Related Technical Instruction (RTI) Credit
- Preparation for Journeyman Plumber Licensure Testing
Career Pathways
Licensed and credentialed plumbers enjoy high job stability, strong earning potential, and career advancement across construction and service sectors.
Potential Career Pathways:
- Residential & Commercial Plumbing Apprentice / Specialist
- Journeyman Plumber Candidate
- Pipe Maintenance & Service Technician
- Backflow & Utility Piping Specialist
- Independent Plumbing Contractor
Program Contact & Admissions
Ready to begin your plumbing career or explore FastForward tuition assistance? Contact our Instructor or Workforce Career Coach:
Mike Hendrickson — Instructor
Phone: (540) 863-2880 | Email: mhendrickson@mgcc.edu
Robin Jennings — FastForward Career Coach
Phone: (540) 863-2899 | Email: rjennings@mgcc.edu
Office Location: Backels Hall, Clifton Forge Campus
MGCC Student Services Suite
Phone: (540) 863-2820 | Email: admissions@mgcc.edu
Location: Backels Hall, First Floor (Clifton Forge Campus)