Plumbing Technology | Montana State University-Northern

Skills & Competencies

Skills developed through this program

Auto-populatedfrom O*NET via SOC 47-2152.00

Skills

Critical ThinkingTroubleshootingRepairingJudgment and Decision MakingMonitoringSpeakingCoordinationComplex Problem Solving

Knowledge

Building and ConstructionMechanicalDesignMathematicsCustomer and Personal Service

Abilities

Problem SensitivityFinger DexterityNear VisionDeductive ReasoningManual DexterityInductive ReasoningTrunk StrengthFar VisionOral ComprehensionCategory Flexibility

Tasks

Shut off steam, water, or other gases or liquids from pipe sections, using valve keys or wrenches.
Install underground storm, sanitary, or water piping systems, extending piping as needed to connect
Assemble pipe sections, tubing, or fittings, using couplings, clamps, screws, bolts, cement, plastic

Technology

Computer aided design CAD softwareWord processing softwareAnalytical or scientific softwareAccounting softwareData base user interface and query software

Tools

Acetylene torchesAdjustable slip lock nut wrenchesAdjustable wrenchesAir compressorsAir operated grindersAir pressure gaugesAir wire brushesAir-acetylene torchesAllen wrenchesAlternating current AC welding equipmentAmp metersAngle air grindersAugersAutomatic levelsBackhoes

Work Values

RelationshipsIndependenceSupportWorking ConditionsAchievementRecognition

Career Pathways

Occupations this program prepares you for

Auto-populatedfrom O*NET + BLS

Occupations matched to this program, with median wage, top wage, growth, and openings
SOC	Occupation	Method	Wage	Growth	Openings
Match confidence: high47-2152.00	Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters	title_inference	$62,970 median$105,150 top	+4.5%	2,270

Program Pathways

Credentials this program stacks toward

No program pathways.

What You'll Learn

Key competencies developed through this program

Auto-populatedfrom NSX Competency Framework

Mastery: developing (Level 2)(based on Associate's Degree)

Pipe system shutoff procedures — execute independently using valve keys and wrenches to isolate sections safely during repair work on multi-unit residential buildings.
Copper, PVC, and steel pipe assemblies — join using soldering, brazing, cement, or threaded couplings with consistent quality across routine residential and light commercial installations.
Pipe layout positions and passage holes — mark accurately using levels and rulers with minimal oversight on standard new-construction framing packages.
Cutting torches, pipe threaders, and pipe benders — operate routinely to fabricate pipe sections to specification on commercial construction projects.
Blueprints and building codes — review and apply to plan pipe routing and select appropriate materials for familiar installation scenarios.
Underground storm and sanitary piping systems — install and extend to connect fixtures following engineered drawings on residential subdivision projects.
Troubleshooting common pipe leaks and blockages — diagnose and repair using systematic inspection techniques during service calls with limited supervision.
Full-scale pipe layout drawings — lay out on-site from blueprint dimensions to guide installation of supports and equipment in standard mechanical rooms.
Time and task sequencing — manage personal workload across concurrent plumbing tasks to meet project milestones on mid-size commercial job sites.
Customer and building occupant communication — explain repair scope and expected disruption clearly and professionally during service and maintenance visits.

Program Details

Detailed information about this program

No detailed information available.

Requirements

What you need to earn this credential

No requirements listed.

Financial Aid

Eligible funding programs

No funding information available.

Scholarships

No scholarships listed.