Piping Trades
Overview
Develop your skills in plumbing, gas, steam and pipe fitting. This in-demand, diverse trades program can lead you to employment in residential, commercial and industrial construction industries.
This nine-month certificate program will introduce you to multiple trades in high demand. Concentrate on plumbing, gas and pipe fitting, while learning about furnaces, heating, air conditioning and air exchange systems, water treatment, fire sprinkler systems, water and sewer and sheet metal. Instructors use industry-relevant tools and equipment with an emphasis on safety and protection of the environment.
Study alongside other trades students at our Len Evans Centre of Trades and Technology. This program boasts hands-on learning using a wide variety of equipment from different trades to assist you in learning the function, installation and troubleshooting procedures.
This program will provide you the core skills for a multitude of careers with plumbing and heating contractors, industrial piping contractors, public utilities, wholesale suppliers, fire sprinkler installers, and water and wastewater treatment facilities. There is a special emphasis in this program on the role of plumbing in public health and wastewater management concerns, a rapidly growing field that deals with environmental issues.
Graduates who register as a plumbing apprentice within two years of completing this program may be granted in-school training credit for Level 1 Plumber apprenticeship.
Program Learning Outcomes
Graduates will be able to:
- Complete work in compliance with provincial and/or national codes, applicable laws, standards and ethical practices in industry.
- Comply with health and safety practices and procedures in accordance with current legislation and regulations
- Install, test, and service drainage, waste and vent (DWV) systems
- Install, test, and service water distribution systems
- Install, test, and service fixtures and appliances
- Communicate and collaborate with diverse clients, supervisors, coworkers and tradespersons to complete projects on time and to maintain effective working relationships
Success Factors
A career in this field is a good fit if you would enjoy...
- A strong technical aptitude for understanding complex piping systems and how they work.
- Physical fitness required to work in tight spaces, climb ladders, and lift heavy objects.
- Troubleshooting problems to come up with effective solutions.
- Be meticulous and pay close attention to detail to ensure that piping systems are installed and maintained properly.
- Prioritize safety and follow appropriate safety procedures to prevent accidents and injuries.
- Provide excellent customer service and handle client concerns or complaints.
- Adapt to changing situations and work effectively in a variety of settings.
- Working independently or in small teams.
- Piping trades workers must be self-motivated and able to stay on task without direct supervision.
A valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle is strongly recommended given the potential need to travel for practicum placement.
Industry and program environment require individuals to:
- Be reliable, punctual, and regularly attend.
- Move around and work within the environment, negotiating different areas including stairs and ladders, confined spaces, heights, uneven terrain and scaffolds.
- Complete responsibilities requiring standing, bending, and climbing.
- Have the strength, dexterity, balance and stamina required to work in or on equipment.
- Work in noisy, dusty and/or fume-filled areas with appropriate personal protective equipment.
- Work with biological and other hazardous elements.
- Interpret technical documents, drawings, specifications, codes, regulations, bylaws and standards.
- Communicate effectively with suppliers, co-workers, trades people, safety and building inspectors, manufacturer representatives, customers.
- Work in industry-specific shifts, schedules, and conditions.
- Listen to direction and act on that accordingly.
- Demonstrate safety-conscious attitudes and work practices.
- Working outdoors in extreme weather conditions.
- Working in a collaborative team environment or independently as the situation requires.
Admissions
-
A complete Manitoba Grade 12 or equivalent
-
Consumer/Essential Math 40S or equivalent.
English is the language of instruction at Assiniboine. All applicants educated outside of Canada or in a country not on the test exempt list are expected to meet the English language proficiency requirement. See assiniboine.net/elp for more information.
International Students
International students should review the Helpful Information for International Students prior to applying.
Program Considerations
To be successful in this program and industry, it is important for you to be able to:
- Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including hardhat, safety glasses and steel toe boots
- Work outdoors in extreme warm and cold weather conditions (+30°C to -40°C)
- Use ladders and work at varying heights
- Work as part of a team
- Take direction from a supervisor
- Be punctual and attend class on a regular basis
A valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle is strongly recommended given the potential need to travel for practicum placement.
Careers & Connections
Career Opportunities
- Plumbing and heating contractors
- Industrial piping contractors
- Public utilities
- Wholesale suppliers
- Fire sprinkler installers
- Water and waste water treatment facilities
- Maintenance companies
Connections
Students who successfully complete the accredited program with an accumulative average of 70% or better in the trade subjects and level for which the program was accredited, gain employment and register as an apprentice within two years of graduating, will receive credit for Level 1 in-school technical training and 900 hours in the Plumber apprenticeship program.
Assiniboine has a number of agreements with other colleges, universities and professional organizations, making it possible for students to apply credit taken at Assiniboine to programs at other institutions. For up-to-date information on agreements, visit the Articulation Agreements page.
Tools & Supplies
The Piping Trades certificate program at Assiniboine is not only concerned with plumbing and heating, but also we introduce the student to fire sprinkler systems, rural water and sewer, air conditioning, water treatment, and sheet metal. All of these programs use some of the most recent tools and equipment available with the emphasis on safety on protection of the environment.
New equipment in this program includes a Honeywell DSP 3168 Gas Ignition Trainer, a computer gas service simulator, and new safety equipment that the student will see used in the field. Just a few of the interesting and challenging pieces of equipment you'll master in the Piping Trades program!
The shop environment and the addition of the HVAC shop will enhance the spectrum of learning at the Len Evans Centre for Trades and Technology.
Booklists are available from your school office 30 days prior to the start date of your program. Visit the Bookstore website to learn more.
Our classrooms, labs and shops are equipped with the necessary equipment that you need to make the most of your experience. However, there are some tools and supplies that you will need to purchase for personal use to help you with your studies. Much of what you purchase you’ll be able to use after you graduate and begin your career. Tool and supply lists are available from the school office 30 days prior to the start date of the program.
Students are advised not to purchase tools until the second week of school. The School of Trades holds a Tool Fair during this week where students meet with various suppliers and purchase tools at reduced costs.
Program Checklist and Textbooks/Supplies
Technology Requirements
Students in this program are expected to have a computer at home with internet access that meets the technical needs outlined by the program. Refer to assiniboine.net/tech for detailed information.
Courses & Costs
Costs
Estimated Program Costs (Domestic students)
| Credits | Tuition | Course fees | Students' Association fees (Inc Health Premium) | Estimated textbooks, tools and supplies | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Piping Trades | 72 | $4,130 | $2,100 | $520 | $1,540 |
All fees are estimated and subject to change without notice.
Estimated Program Costs (International students)
| Credits | Tuition | Course Fees | Students' Association fees (Inc Health Premium) | Required Health Insurance | Textbooks, Tools, & Supplies | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Piping Trades | 72 | $18,580 | $2,100 | $520 | $750 | $1,540 |
All fees are estimated and are subject to change without notice. All international students must purchase health insurance. The college adds this fee to your student account and then sends your name and fee to the insurance provider on your behalf.
Courses
To graduate with a Piping Trades certificate, students must successfully complete 69 academic credits and 3 practical credits. The minimum passing grade for each course is 60% and is indicated on the course outline. Course failure will result in discontinuance in the program. Course offerings are subject to change and may vary by intake.
Courses
| Title | Credits/CEUs | Elective | Distance | PLAR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Blueprint Reading (PIPET) (DRFT-0010)This course provides the fundamental skills necessary for students to become familiar with architectural blueprints. Students are introduced to the tools, terminology and common practices used in the piping trades. Emphasis is placed on interpretation of floor plans and converting to an isometric single line drawing. |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
College Foundations (PEDV-0356)This course improves students’ ability to navigate the college experience and environment, including student's rights, roles, and responsibilities. In this course, students reflect on their skills, attitudes, and expectations and develop learning strategies to help them to become successful, resilient, and self-directed learners. The course covers topics such as success in online learning, time management strategies, learning strategies, assessment taking strategies, academic integrity, information and digital literacy, and wellness, among others. It integrates elements of student orientation. |
0 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Communications (COMM-0045)This course includes instruction in techniques to improve both written and oral communication with prospective employers, co-workers and clients. Effective strategies for customer service are emphasized. It also serves to familiarize students with the regulations related to the workplace. As well, students receive an introduction to the use of computer software and hands-on experience with Windows operating system, Internet and email. |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Heating Principles Practical (PIPE-0014)Prerequisites: PIPE-0001 Tools and Materials Theory, PIPE-0002 Tools and Materials Practical, PIPE-0003 Plumbing Systems Theory |
7.5 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Heating Principles Theory (PIPE-0005)Prerequisites: PIPE-0001 Tools and Materials Theory, PIPE-0002 Tools and Materials Practical, PIPE-0003 Plumbing Systems Theory |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Math - Piping Trades (MATH-0108)In this course, students study mathematics related to the piping trades. This unit is designed to provide students with the knowledge of mathematics used in piping trades such as plumbing, steam fitting, gas fitting, sprinkler fitting and refrigeration. Topics include imperial and metric systems, formulas and formula transposition, areas and volumes, elevations and grade, offsets and percentages. |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Plumbing Systems Practical (PIPE-0004)Prerequisites: PIPE-0001 Tools and Materials Theory, PIPE-0002 Tools and Materials Practical |
12 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Plumbing Systems Theory (PIPE-0003)Prerequisites: PIPE-0001 Tools and Materials Theory, PIPE-0002 Tools and Materials Practical |
9 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Practicum - PIPE (PRAC-0037)Prerequisite: Cumulative weighted grade point average (CWGPA) of 2.0 or greater |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Related Welding (WELD-0040)This course provides an introduction to the use of oxyacetylene brazing, welding and cutting in a safe and acceptable manner. |
1.5 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Science (SCIE-0008)This course includes the study of physical properties of liquids and gases as applied to pressures and friction loss in the piping trades. |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Tools and Materials Practical (PIPE-0002)Corequisite: PIPE-0001 Tools and Materials Theory |
15 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Tools and Materials Theory (PIPE-0016)In this course, students study tools and materials used in the piping trades and the design of piping systems using elevation views. They also study the basic tools, materials and practices used in the various piping trades including plumbing, steam fitting, gas fitting and sprinkler fitting. |
9 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Fast Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the next program information session?
Program information sessions are completely free to attend, and we invite you to bring a guest along as well. It's a good idea to register in advance so we know you're coming.
To find the complete schedule for our program information sessions and to RSVP, visit the program information session page.