Discussions

Hello everyone,  
Am starting a piping trades program in September at ACC.  
Just wanted to ask anyone who has gone through the program what to expect and any study materials to get before starting date? Any heads up idea?  
Thanks

I took this course somewheres about 7 years ago now I got to level 3 then switched trades to sheetmetal but i really enjoyed plumbing aswell. As far as the course goes you honestly don't need a whole bunch besides what they tell you to get. However math and science is very essential so brushing up on that would be a big one. I am guessing you are talking about pre employment aswell so they touch based on a wide variety of things so expect a fare bit of work then test then something new but it is a great course I really loved it had a great time and maybe expect a lot more than sh*t goes down hill and paydays Friday lol

rdp said "I took this course somewheres about 7 years ago now I got to level 3 then switched trades to sheetmetal but i really enjoyed plumbing aswell. As far as the course goes you honestly don't need a whole bunch besides what they tell you to get. However math and science is very essential so brushing up on that would be a big one. I am guessing you are talking about pre employment aswell so they touch based on a wide variety of things so expect a fare bit of work then test then something new but it is a great course I really loved it had a great time and maybe expect a lot more than sh*t goes down hill and paydays Friday lol "

The only other thing you will need to know is, Wash your hands before you eat!

Try to get a job in the plumbing trade without taking the course and save yourself thousands of dollars and actually make money. Plumbing is a competitive career and having an actual work ethic and willingness to do what it takes is essential. The ability to think on ur feet and be able to pick things up very quickly will probably help keep your job. Not Putting your phone in the truck and grabbing a shovel is a common problem for younger people apparently.

How is your math? If you feel unsure about basic foundational math (fractions, conversions, area, volume, etc) I would freshen up before you head back.  
 
There are lots of great places to get help while you aren't in school - Workplace Education Manitoba who has an office behind the Toyota dealership. Also, you can contact ACC as they have staff that can help you with brushing up before you start. Best of luck!

I took the course in 1990-91. Except for the first couple of years that I had sporadic work the rest has been steady for now 26 years. It is a good career not just a job.

Everyone.  
Is a new career path for me.  
Just wanted to know what to expect.

Congrats on a new career! It will be very rewarding with lots of effort. Remember: If it is meant to be...up to me!  
 
I have jumped thru the hoops.Red Seal in 2014.  
 
My suggestions:  
 
Foot wear....steel toe CSA with omega sign approved shoes, lots of shop time for pre-employment.  
 
Tools: Dont buy anything too soon. Yes, you do get a list of what is required. Look around their shop and you will see brand names. ACC will have a tool fair and you will be able to see what will suit your trade.  
 
I do like the fatmax tool boxes from Canadian Tire. Other tools PM me. But do not buy till you have had the tool fair.  
 
Large binders...lots of hand outs and  
assignments.  
 
Pencils, Pencils, Pencils.  
 
And an eraser.  
 
When I took my provincial exams we were only allowed a certain brand of calculator.  
SHARP EL-531X, battery operated, is what I used. Not sure if they changed the brand but if you contact the Apprenticeship Trades Board in Brandon they will tell you what they hand out for calculators. Definately follow thru on that and master that. Your instructors should know what they use too...or they will let you know.  
 
Lastly, plan a resume, as a part of Your curriculum you must do 3 weeks of practicum. Where you work for a company..usually for free. Line something up months prior.  
 
Fail to plan...plan to fail.  
 
Message me if you have any questions.  
 
Good Luck!  
 
Edited by just the dude, 2018-07-25 01:19:19