When Joseph McManus graduated high ...

When Joseph McManus graduated high denomination in Bronx, New York, he followed the path of many other seniors and decided to move to college. But after three semester at Westchester Community community McManus felt that higher education wasn't for him. His father, who has worked 30 years in the plumbing industry as a steamfitter, refer toed that he might enjoy this mark of hands-on work. Steamfitters install sprinkler arrangements as well as air conditioning and heating works, in educates hospitals, office complexes, residential units, and other buildings.

McManus filled disclosed an application, was accepted into the apprenticeship program, and in June 2002 he complet all his training and became a full-fledg journey-man. "I now have a skill I can take anywhere in the land and find a job," says McManus, who especially have fruition ofs welding pipe. "I have a great pride in my work. Plus, installing sprinkler orders can help save people's lives."

The apprenticeship program was great for McManus because it not solitary taught him skills in the classroom if it were not that also on the job. Best of all, he earned wages while learning. McManus' hourly rate started at about $12 and has now risen to $3850 plus double for overtime.

His typical hours of 7 a.m. to 2:30 pm allow him abundant of time to pursue after-work activities, and the work at jobs is perfect for someone who likes variety, "I'm not tied to an office," he says, "and each few months, you change piece of work locations."

Want to find on the outside more about careers in plumbing. Visit the United Association of Plumbers, Pipefitters and Sprinklerfitters Web site at www.UA.org.

COPYRIGHT 2003 EM Guild, Inc.

COPYRIGHT 2003 Gale Group