Plumbers and Pipefitters

Program Description

The High School Introduction to Plumbers and Pipefitters program (HIPP) offers an opportunity to gain hands-on experience and begin developing the skills needed to pursue a career in the pipe-trades field.

Water and gas lines behind a wall

Pipefitters install piping systems that deliver liquids and gases throughout buildings. Typically, in new construction, pipefitters install the infrastructure for hospitals, skyscrapers, schools, retail stores, and other types of commercial or industrial buildings.

Students will attain industry-recognized certifications through preparatory training for in-demand, high-wage careers. They will learn welding, soldering, brazing, rigging, tube bending and more through hands-on activities and projects to prepare them for interviews with Local 26-SWWPT.

Through project-based learning, students will grasp important concepts in the field of pipefitting, including:

  • Setting up sight and transit, shooting grade, and locating marks using surveying techniques
  • Matching measurement activities to manufacturing processes
  • Describing and explaining drawings and blueprints
  • Identifying different thread types
  • Cutting and turning threads on steel pipe

Upon completion of the program, students will be certified in Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 10, scissor lift operation, and they will receive a completion certificate from the Southwest Washington Pipe Trades.

Student using a torch to join two pipes

Summer 2025 Program Details

  • Application deadline: May 18 is the priority deadline. Applications received after the deadline may be considered if there is space.
  • Program dates: June 23 - July 10.  Program times are between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m.
  • Meeting location: Lincoln High School (then transported by school vans to Lacey for training at the apprenticeship training center for pipefitters in Lacey)
  • Notification of selected applicants: Early June
  • Approximate hours to complete: 85 hours
  • Certification(s) offered: Scissor lift; OSHA 10; HIPP completion certificate; Financial Literacy through EverFi 
  • Credits toward graduation: 0.5 CTE Credits 
  • Total spots available: 18
  • For additional information, please contact Jeff Klancke: jklanck@tacoma.k12.wa.us

Apply now

  • May 18 is the priority deadline. Applications received after the deadline may be considered if there is space.
  • TPS students must be logged into their TPS account to apply
  • Applications take 15-20 minutes to complete
  • Students will be asked to provide contact information for themselves and a parent/guardian
  • Read the program description, requirements and dates prior to applying.

TPS Student Application  Non-TPS Student Application

Pipefitter Careers by the Numbers