For plumbing and HVAC apprentices, the Foundation’s national plumbing and HVAC apprentice contests are a chance to shine. These once-a-year events set the top apprentices from across the nation to work on a test of their skills, knowledge and accuracy. Plumbing apprentices must rough-in a bathroom – including the drain, waste and vent lines, a toilet, a sink and shower. HVAC apprentices must demonstrate their knowledge with a written test, plus their hands-on skills with brazing, pressure testing, refrigerant recovery and diagnosing & repairing a package unit system.
The contests take place on the tradeshow floor during PHCC CONNECT, allowing the event attendees to watch the contestants’ progress (and cheer for their hometown favorite).
Besides offering apprentices a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and skills on a national stage, the contests support the Foundation’s mission by helping to generate awareness for local apprenticeship programs, boosting interest in the fields of plumbing and HVAC and attracting new recruits to the industry.
The next National Apprentice Contests will take place in Cleveland, Ohio from October 25-26, 2023.
Registration for the 2023 contests will open in early summer.
