Blog Post

Future Opportunities for UA Apprentices

By UA Local 486 | May 31, 2023

Are you wondering about the future opportunities that a UA apprenticeship will lead to? You’re not alone. Considering the future is important for any career move. Whether you know your future goals or they are still unclear, we can help you understand what opportunities are available to you after your apprenticeship. 

Plumbing and steamfitting are essential trades that play a crucial role in maintaining the functionality of buildings and infrastructure. As the world continues to develop and grow, so do the career opportunities for UA union plumber and steamfitter apprentices. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the future career opportunities that lie ahead for these skilled tradespeople.

Commercial and Industrial Construction

There will always be a need for commercial and industrial construction. New ideas and innovations lead to new construction projects. Older builders wear down and require repairs. Technology changes and present construction requires updating. 

With the skills learned during the UA apprenticeship, you will have the opportunity to install and maintain the plumbing and heating systems in large-scale commercial and industrial buildings, have a hand in the construction of new buildings, or supervise projects as a lead foreman. 

Plumbing

As a graduate of the apprentice program, you will be licensed and ready to start your plumbing career. You can work with a local company to offer residential and commercial plumbing services, start your own plumbing business, or work in a more industrial environment as a commercial plumber or pipefitter. 

The need for plumbers will never go away and especially if you go into a residential setting, you will get to enjoy the satisfaction of helping people. 

HVACR

Like plumbers, HVACR will always be in demand. And this is another opportunity where you will leave the apprenticeship program licensed and ready to enter the workforce. With HVACR you can work with residential, commercial, or industrial settings. With your experience, any HVAC company will be happy to hire you or you can work to start your own HVAC business. 

Green Energy Systems

As the world shifts towards more sustainable and environmentally-friendly practices, there is a growing need for skilled tradespeople to install and maintain green energy systems. These systems include solar panels, geothermal heating and cooling systems, and rainwater harvesting systems. UA union plumber and steamfitter apprentices can specialize in these areas and help make a positive impact on the environment.
 

Industrial Maintenance

Many industrial facilities require ongoing maintenance and repairs to ensure that they continue to operate efficiently. UA union plumber and steamfitter apprentices can specialize in industrial maintenance and work with large factories, refineries, and other industrial facilities to ensure that their plumbing and heating systems are functioning properly.

Infrastructure Development

Infrastructure development is a growing field that includes the construction and maintenance of roads, bridges, tunnels, and water systems. UA union plumber and steamfitter apprentices can work on infrastructure projects to install and maintain the plumbing and heating systems required to keep these facilities operating.

Future Initiatives

The UA apprenticeship program is a great way to get you off the ground, earn money and get your hands dirty while you figure out what you want to do with the rest of your life. While it is a mechanical trades apprenticeship, it can position you to do so much more than that. With the experience gained, you will be able to take hold of future leadership career opportunities in any industry, become an engineer, or use the skills gained to develop green technology to help the planet. You will also have gained college credits if you choose to go on to college in the future to further your education. 

The future is bright for UA union plumber and steamfitter apprentices. With the world’s increasing demand for infrastructure, housing, and sustainability, these skilled tradespeople will continue to play a vital role in maintaining the functionality of buildings and infrastructure. Whether it’s in commercial and industrial construction, residential plumbing, green energy systems, industrial maintenance, or infrastructure development, there are plenty of exciting career opportunities available for those who choose to pursue this path.

What does the future hold for you and your family?