Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters
๐ค Save CareerPlumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters play a vital role in the US economy, with 505K professionals employed nationwide. The median annual salary is $62,970, with projected growth of 4% through 2034 (As fast as average).
๐ฐ Salary Range
๐ Growth Outlook
moderate โ 4% projected growth๐ค AI Automation Risk
This career is highly resistant to AI automation.
๐คAI Impact Deep Dive: Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters
๐ฌ AI Impact Deep Dive: Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters
AI Collaboration Score
Measures how much AI tools are used as collaborative assistants in this role (0% = no AI involvement, 100% = AI-intensive workflow)
๐ฎ Future Outlook
The core duties of this occupation are highly physical, requiring manual dexterity, strength, and real-time problem-solving in unpredictable physical environments like crawl spaces and construction sites. While AI may assist with peripheral tasks like cost estimation, blueprint analysis via BIM, and scheduling, it cannot perform the essential hands-on installation and repair work.
Analysis based on Microsoft "Working with AI" research (2025), O*NET task data v30.2, and Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational projections. Updated March 2026.
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A Day in the Life
๐Career Outlook & Getting Started
Why It's Promising
With 4% projected growth and a median salary of $62,970, this career offers steady prospects. The large employment base (0.5M jobs) means abundant opportunities across the country.
How to Get Started
Entry typically requires high school diploma or equivalent. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field.
Who Is It For
Anyone interested in plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters who wants to build a rewarding career in this field.
๐Majors & Top Schools
โFrequently Asked Questions
How much does a Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters make in 2026?โผ
The median salary for a Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters is $62,970 per year. Entry-level positions start around $37,782, while experienced professionals can earn up to $100,752 depending on location, specialization, and industry.
How do I become a Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters?โผ
Entry typically requires high school diploma or equivalent. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field. The typical education requirement is no degree required.
What degree do you need to be a Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters?โผ
Most Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters positions require no degree required. However, some professionals enter the field through alternative paths like bootcamps, certifications, or self-directed learning.
What AP courses should I take to become a Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters?โผ
Check PathLeap for personalized AP course recommendations for Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters. The right AP courses depend on your target college major and career specialization.
What does a Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters do on a daily basis?โผ
As a plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitter, your day involves a mix of specialized tasks that require both expertise and adaptability. You work with colleagues, clients, or patients depending on the setting, applying your training to solve real-world problems.
Is Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters a good career in 2026?โผ
With 4% projected growth and a median salary of $62,970, this career offers steady prospects. The large employment base (0.5M jobs) means abundant opportunities across the country. Job growth is projected at 4%, which is declining. The median salary of $62,970 also positions it competitively in the job market.
Will AI replace Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitterss?โผ
Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters has an AI automation risk score of 20/100 (Very Low). This career is highly resistant to AI automation due to its need for human judgment, creativity, or physical presence.
What kind of person makes a good Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters?โผ
Anyone interested in plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters who wants to build a rewarding career in this field. Success in this role also depends on continuous learning and adaptability, especially as the field evolves with new technology and industry trends.
Is Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters Right for You?
Take our career quiz to see how Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters matches your personality. Get personalized AP course recommendations and see what similar students are exploring.
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