Best Plumbing Schools in Mississippi

If you want to start a plumbing career in Mississippi, the right training program can make all the difference. Plumbing isn't just about fixing leaks. It's about understanding codes, safety, and how water systems work in both homes and commercial buildings.

Here's what you need to know to choose a good plumbing school, meet state licensing rules, and get started working in the trade.

How Plumbing Licensing Works in Mississippi

In Mississippi, plumbers are regulated at the state level for larger projects, but local cities or counties often have their own requirements. Usually, you start as an apprentice, work under a licensed plumber, and then move up to journeyman or master status.

Mississippi State Board of Contractors rule: Any plumbing work on projects over 0,000 requires a state contractor's license. Smaller jobs may be covered under local licensing.

Typical licensing steps in Mississippi:

1. Enroll in a plumbing training program or start an approved apprenticeship.
2. Complete on-the-job hours. Apprenticeships often take 3-5 years.
3. Pass a licensing exam for journeyman (local) or contractor (state level).
4. Maintain license through renewals and continuing education if required by local jurisdiction.

Contact your local city or county building department for specific journeyman licensing requirements.

Choosing the Right Plumbing School

When comparing schools, look for these qualifications:

• State or nationally recognized accreditation
• Hands-on lab training with real equipment
• Instructors with field experience
• Apprenticeship placement assistance
• Curriculum that covers Mississippi building codes, safety, and green plumbing practices

Best Plumbing Schools and Programs in Mississippi

The following schools and programs have strong reputations for producing job-ready plumbers and meeting Mississippi's training needs.

1. Hinds Community College - Plumbing Technology

Location: Raymond, MS
Hinds offers a Plumbing Technology program that combines classroom learning with hands-on experience. Students cover pipe layout, reading blueprints, code compliance, and installation methods. The college has relationships with local contractors, helping graduates move directly into apprenticeships.

2. Pearl River Community College - Career and Technical Education

Location: Poplarville, MS
Pearl River's program blends welding, pipe fitting, and plumbing basics for students entering various mechanical trades. This can be a good choice if you want a broader skillset for industrial plumbing and maintenance work.

3. Mississippi Construction Education Foundation (MCEF) - Plumbing Apprenticeship

Location: Multiple sites across MS
MCEF provides a recognized plumbing apprenticeship program following NCCER (National Center for Construction Education and Research) standards. You work while you learn, earning your hours toward journeyman licensing. MCEF training is respected statewide by employers.

4. Northwest Mississippi Community College - Associate Degree in Construction and Plumbing Support

Location: Senatobia, MS
This two-year program covers construction fundamentals, specialized plumbing systems, safety training, and project planning. It can be helpful for those who want to own their own plumbing business down the road.

5. Lincoln Electric Cooperative Area Workforce Training (Specialized Programs)

Location: Brookhaven, MS
While not a full plumbing degree, this workforce training program offers short-term pipework, blueprint reading, and plumbing code workshops. These can help upgrade your skills or prepare for exams.

Plumbing Program Lengths in Mississippi

State Licensing Exam Details

The Mississippi contractor's license plumbing exam covers:

• Mississippi laws and business management
• Plumbing code compliance
• Water supply and drainage system design
• Installation techniques and materials
• Workplace safety and OSHA rules

The state uses PSI Exams for testing. You'll need to apply through the Mississippi State Board of Contractors and meet experience requirements before testing.

Apprenticeship vs. School-First Path

Some plumbers go straight into an apprenticeship with a licensed contractor. Others start in a technical college, then enter the workforce.

Apprenticeship Advantages:

• Earn while you learn
• Direct mentorship from seasoned plumbers
• Hours count toward licensing from the start

School-First Advantages:

• Structured learning environment
• Easier transition into multiple trades if plans change
• May have financial aid options

Your choice may depend on whether you have an employer ready to sponsor your apprenticeship.

Safety and Code Compliance

Plumbing work in Mississippi must follow the International Plumbing Code (IPC) with state and local amendments. Always check the latest version before taking jobs or tests.

OSHA reminder: Working in confined spaces, with pressurized systems, or near hazardous materials requires proper safety training before performing tasks on the job.

Next Steps

If you are serious about a plumbing career in Mississippi:

1. Decide if you want to start with a full-time school program or on-the-job apprenticeship.
2. Contact two or three schools for enrollment dates and admission requirements.
3. Get a clear outline of costs, hours required, and any placement help they offer.
4. Check with your local licensing authority for journeyman rules.
5. Keep your training records organized-they'll be required for your license application.

Starting in the trade takes commitment, but plumbing is steady, respected work. Choose a program that meets state standards, gets you real-world practice, and connects you with employers.

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