Skilled Trades & Technical SciencesColorado

Plumbing in Colorado

See How It Works

Colorado's Plumbing pathway prepares students for careers in a skilled trade with consistent demand and strong earning potential. Plumbers are essential to residential, commercial, and industrial projects throughout the state.

Students master pipe fitting, system design, water supply and drainage systems, fixture installation, and code compliance. They learn through hands-on practice with multiple materials and system types.

Graduates work as plumbing apprentices, progressing to journeyman and master plumber status. Many establish plumbing businesses. Colorado's construction growth ensures strong employment.

Plumbing at a Glance

3

Courses

8

Credentials

4

Career Paths

State Standards & Framework

Colorado's plumbing standards align with the International Plumbing Code and state licensing requirements. Standards emphasize safety, code compliance, system design, and installation.

Students complete competency assessments in pipe fitting, fixture installation, system testing, and blueprint interpretation. Assessment incorporates current code standards and licensing exam preparation.

View Colorado CTE Framework →

Typical Course Sequence

Course
Plumbing Fundamentals and Code
Water Systems and Drainage
Installation and Advanced Plumbing

View Colorado course standards →

Industry Certifications & Credentials

Career Opportunities

Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Growth projections from BLS Employment Projections (2023-2033). Cost-of-living adjustment uses BEA Regional Price Parities (2023). Entry-level salaries reflect the 25th percentile; experienced salaries reflect the median.

Plumbing Apprentice

Entry Level
$51,280in Colorado
National: $48,860+5%

Salary range: $51,280 - $77,990

+0.9% growth3,500 openings/yr
Search jobs on Indeed →

Journeyman Plumber

Experienced
$63,610in Colorado
National: $62,970+1%

Salary range: $51,280 - $77,990

+0.9% growth3,500 openings/yr
Search jobs on Indeed →

Service Plumber

Experienced
$63,610in Colorado
National: $62,970+1%

Salary range: $51,280 - $77,990

+0.9% growth3,500 openings/yr
Search jobs on Indeed →

Master Plumber

Experienced
$63,610in Colorado
National: $62,970+1%

Salary range: $51,280 - $77,990

+0.9% growth3,500 openings/yr
Search jobs on Indeed →

Work-Based Learning Opportunities

Students apprentice with licensed plumbing contractors, utilities, commercial contractors, and industrial facilities throughout Colorado.

Career & Technical Student Organization

Students in this pathway can participate in SkillsUSA, gaining leadership experience and competing in career-related events.

How Sage Helps Colorado CTE Programs

AI-Powered Curriculum

Generate standards-aligned lesson plans in minutes, not months

Colorado Standards Built In

Pre-loaded with Colorado's CTE standards and frameworks

Teacher Customization

Teachers personalize content while maintaining standards alignment

Ongoing Updates

Curriculum stays current as Colorado standards and industry needs evolve

Related Pathways in Colorado

Construction Trades

Colorado's Construction Trades pathway prepares students for careers across the diverse construction industry. Colorado's strong construction sector, supported by population growth and infrastructure development, creates robust opportunities. Students develop foundational skills in multiple construction disciplines including carpentry, electrical basics, plumbing fundamentals, and HVAC concepts. They learn through comprehensive hands-on training and partnerships with construction companies. Graduates pursue specialized training in specific trades or work as general construction workers. Many progress to journeyman status or into construction management. Strong demand throughout Colorado ensures excellent career opportunities.

Skilled Trades & Technical Sciences

Electrical Trades

Colorado's Electrical Trades pathway prepares students for careers as electricians and electrical technicians. Colorado's construction growth and diverse economy create strong demand for skilled electricians. Students master electrical theory, circuit design, wire sizing, conduit installation, safety practices, and code compliance. They work with industry-standard tools and materials through training labs and contractor partnerships. Graduates work as electrical apprentices, progressing to journeyman and master electrician status. Many establish their own electrical businesses. Colorado's construction and industrial growth ensures strong employment.

Skilled Trades & Technical Sciences

HVAC - Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning

Colorado's HVAC pathway prepares students for careers in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration across residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Colorado's varied climate and growing construction create consistent demand for skilled HVAC technicians. Students master system design principles, equipment operation, refrigeration cycles, electrical components, and maintenance procedures. They work with multiple system types and gain hands-on experience through partnerships with HVAC contractors and building systems companies. Graduates work as HVAC technicians or apprentices, progressing to journeyman and master technician status. Many establish their own HVAC service businesses. Colorado's active construction and facility maintenance sectors ensure strong employment throughout the state.

Skilled Trades & Technical Sciences

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