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CIP 46.0502 Construction Trades

Pipefitting/Pipefitter and Sprinkler Fitter

IPEDS Completions, US Department of Education · 2025

Total graduates

212

2025 · 5 schools

International share

0.5%

1 international students

Overview

The Pipefitting/Pipefitter and Sprinkler Fitter program is designed to prepare students for a career in the installation, maintenance, and repair of piping systems and sprinkler systems used in various construction projects. This field is crucial for ensuring that water, gas, and other fluids are transported safely and efficiently in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.

Students in this program will gain hands-on experience and knowledge in reading blueprints, understanding plumbing codes, and mastering various pipefitting techniques. They will learn about different types of pipes, materials, and fittings, as well as the tools and equipment used in the trade. Safety is a significant focus, with instruction on proper handling and installation practices to prevent accidents and ensure compliance with regulations.

In addition to technical skills, the curriculum often includes coursework in mathematics, physics, and basic engineering principles, which are essential for problem-solving and effective design of piping systems. Graduates can pursue careers as pipefitters, sprinkler fitters, or plumbing technicians, with opportunities in construction companies, manufacturing, and maintenance services.

The demand for skilled pipefitters and sprinkler fitters is expected to grow, driven by ongoing construction projects and the need for upgrading existing systems. This program not only offers a pathway to a rewarding career but also provides essential skills that are applicable across various industries, making it a valuable choice for those looking to enter the trade.

Graduates by year

Graduates by degree level (first and second majors)

AssociateBachelor'sMaster'sDoctoral

From 2003 to 2025, graduates grew 59% and the international share went from 0.0% to 0.5%.

International share (%)
Graduates by group, 2025
White
77.8%
Asian
0.9%
Hispanic
3.8%
Black
3.8%
Other
13.2%
Intl.
0.5%

Colleges that award this degree

In 2025, 5 schools awarded this degree as a first major. The table lists those in the 2027 U.S. News National or Liberal Arts rankings, plus the unranked schools with the most graduates.

RankSchoolStateGraduatesInternational
— Ivy Tech Community College Indiana 165 0
— Washtenaw Community College Michigan 30 1
— Linn-Benton Community College Oregon 9 0
— Montana State University-Northern Montana 5 0
— St Philip's College Texas 3 0

Purple: international students are 25% or more of the school's graduates.

Related jobs and pay

OccupationUS employmentMean hourly wageMean annual wage
First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers 812,210 $41.56 $86,450
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters 465,840 $34.70 $72,170

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025.

Graduate counts: IPEDS Completions, US Department of Education, 2003–2025. Rankings: 2027 U.S. News.