Best Plumbing Schools in Maine

If you want to start a plumbing career in Maine, choosing the right school matters. The right training program will help you gain the skills you need to get licensed and work safely. Maine has a mix of trade schools, community colleges, and apprenticeship programs that can prepare you for the job.

How Plumbing Licensing Works in Maine

In Maine, plumbers are licensed by the Maine Plumbers' Examining Board. You must meet training and experience requirements before you can take the licensing exam.

The basic license steps are:

1. Enroll in a plumbing training program approved by the state.
2. Get hired as a trainee or apprentice under a licensed plumber.
3. Log your hours of on-the-job training.
4. Apply for the Journeyman or Master license and pass the required exam.

Note: According to the Maine Plumbers' Examining Board, you must complete a certain number of work hours under a licensed plumber to qualify for testing. Contact the board to check the current requirements.
Maine Office of Professional and Financial Regulation - Plumbers' Examining Board

Top Plumbing Schools and Training Programs in Maine

Here are some respected options for plumbing training in Maine. These programs may differ in length, class schedules, and costs, so it's important to ask each school for details.

1. Southern Maine Community College (SMCC) - Plumbing Technology

Location: South Portland, ME
Program Type: Certificate and Associate Degree options
SMCC's plumbing program covers pipefitting, blueprint reading, water systems, and waste disposal. Students use industry-standard tools in hands-on labs and are encouraged to work part-time in the field while studying.
Learn more at SMCC

2. Eastern Maine Community College (EMCC) - Plumbing & Heating Technology

Location: Bangor, ME
Program Type: Certificate and Associate Degree
EMCC combines plumbing and heating instruction, giving students broader career opportunities. Training includes installation, repair, and system design, along with safety regulations and code compliance.
Learn more at EMCC

3. United Technologies Center (UTC) - Plumbing & Heating Program

Location: Bangor, ME
Program Type: High school and adult education
UTC's program teaches basic plumbing system installation and maintenance. It's ideal for students entering the workforce after high school or adults seeking a career change.
Program details at UTC

4. Mid-Coast School of Technology - Plumbing & Heating

Location: Rockland, ME
Program Type: High school program with adult learning options
Provides training in residential and commercial plumbing systems, welding basics, and blueprint reading. This program can lead directly into an apprenticeship.
Visit Mid-Coast School of Technology

5. Portland Arts and Technology High School (PATHS) - Plumbing & Heating

Location: Portland, ME
Program Type: High school career and technical education
PATHS offers a two-year program for students to learn plumbing fundamentals while working toward industry certifications.
Learn more at PATHS

Comparing Program Lengths

What to Look for in a Plumbing School

Choosing the best program isn't just about location. Look for:

• State approval so your time counts toward licensing.
• Hands-on training in modern workshops.
• Experienced instructors who have worked as licensed plumbers.
• Apprenticeship connections to help you find on-the-job training.
• Flexible schedules if you need to work while studying.

Apprenticeship and On-the-Job Training

School gives you the foundation, but you also need hands-on experience in the field.

To become a licensed Journeyman in Maine, you typically need:

1. Successful completion of a state-approved plumbing program.
2. A set number of hours working under a licensed Master Plumber.

State Rule: In Maine, a "Plumber-in-Training" license may be required before logging hours on job sites. Keep your records accurate in case the board audits your application.

You can find apprenticeship opportunities through:

• The school's career services department.
• Local plumbing contractors.
• Industry groups like the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC).
  Visit PHCC

Getting Started

Here's what you should do next if you want to start a plumbing career in Maine:

1. Review Maine's licensing requirements on the state website.
2. Contact 2-3 schools from the list above.
3. Compare costs, schedules, and locations.
4. Apply for the program that fits your needs.
5. Plan for your apprenticeship while you finish school.

Summary

The right plumbing school in Maine can set you up for a steady career with room to grow. Look for a program that's approved by the state, offers plenty of hands-on training, and has strong industry connections. Once you complete your coursework and on-the-job hours, you can apply to take your licensing exam. Starting with the right education gets you one step closer to working as a licensed plumber in Maine.

Sources

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