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Printed on 5/10/2025

Plumbing Principles

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20-476-2 Certificate (C) 8 Credits Not Financial Aid Eligible Location*: Appleton

*If general education courses are required, they may be available at multiple locations.

With this certificate, you’ll receive an introduction to the pipe trades and will get hands-on experience using some of the tools and skills required to join pipes and piping systems. You’ll explore career options in plumbing, steam fitting, sprinkler fitting and HVAC piping while developing basic work safety habits, such as learning to prevent, evaluate and control construction site safety hazards. Upon successful completion of the certificate, you’ll be able to use basic pipe trades terminology, demonstrate many basic practices for pipe trade processes and will receive a Department of Labor OSHA Construction Safety and Health 30-hour completion card.

COURSE LIST

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Course list for reference only. Current students please refer to your individualized program plan or see your advisor.
**Outside effort hours are an estimate based on state standards, and may vary from person to person.

    Technical Studies (8 Credits)

    Course Title
    Course Number
    Credits
    Instructional Hours
    Outside Effort Hours**
    Early College Credit Options
    Prior Learning Credit Eligibility
  • Construction Trades Safety
    10-449-180
    2Credit
    36
    72
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 36
    • Outside Effort Hours: 72
    • Course Number: 10449180
    • Credits: 2.00

    Teaches skills to recognize, evaluate and control construction site hazards. Includes personal protective equipment and how to perform construction tasks safely. Describes hazards of work and basic approaches to working safely. Introduces OSHA-mandated Lockout/Tagout procedures and prepares learners for additional detailed safety training. Upon successful completion, the student will receive a Department of Labor OSHA Construction Safety and Health 30-hour completion card.

  • Introduction to Pipe Trades Careers
    31-476-301
    3Credit
    108
    54
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 108
    • Outside Effort Hours: 54
    • Course Number: 31476301
    • Credits: 3.00

    Introduces the plumbing, steamfitting, sprinkler fitting, and HVAC piping trades. Explores trade terminology and component identification necessary to meet the basic skills in the pipe trade industry.

  • Pipe Joining Processes
    31-476-305
    3Credit
    108
    54
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 108
    • Outside Effort Hours: 54
    • Course Number: 31476305
    • Credits: 3.00

    Introduces students to the tools and skills required to join plastic and copper piping systems using sweating, brazing, solvent welding. Also covers various PEX joining methods.

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Expected Competencies

For more information visit our Credit For Prior Learning page.
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Eligible Dual Credit Course

What is Dual Credit?

FVTC courses taught at the high school by certified high school teachers. These teachers receive mentorship from FVTC faculty to ensure alignment in competencies, curriculum, and assessments.


  • Students earn both high school and college credits, with grades applying to both transcripts.
  • There is no cost to the school district or family.
  • Dual Credit course availability varies by high school based on factors such as lab space, equipment, and teacher qualifications.

Process:

As part of the annual course planning, students and families should meet with their High School Guidance Counselor to discuss future college and career goals. This conversation will help identify Dual Credit courses that best align with specific pathways.

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Recommended Start College Now Course

What is Start College Now?

Qualified public-school juniors and seniors may enroll in college level classes at FVTC or online, if a comparable course is not offered within their district.

Student Eligibility Requirements:

  • Must have parent/guardian approval.
  • Must meet all course entry requirements.
  • Must be in good academic standing with an acceptable disciplinary record.

Application Process:

Interested students should consult their High School Guidance Counselor to explore course options and complete a “Start College Now” application. Applications must be submitted to High School Counselors by March 1st for fall courses and October 1st for spring courses. If approved by the school board, the cost is covered by the high school.

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Eligible Dual Credit & Recommended Start College Now Course:

What is Dual Credit?

FVTC courses taught at the high school by certified high school teachers. These teachers receive mentorship from FVTC faculty to ensure alignment in competencies, curriculum, and assessments.

  • Students earn both high school and college credits, with grades applying to both transcripts.
  • There is no cost to the school district or family.

**Dual Credit course availability varies by high school based on factors such as lab space, equipment, and teacher qualifications.

What is Start College Now?

Qualified public-school juniors and seniors may enroll in college level classes at FVTC or online, if a comparable course is not offered within their district.

Student Eligibility Requirements:

  • Must have parent/guardian approval.
  • Must meet all course entry requirements.
  • Must be in good academic standing with an acceptable disciplinary record.

Application Process:

Interested students should consult their High School Guidance Counselor to explore course options and complete a “Start College Now” application. Applications must be submitted to High School Counselors by March 1st for fall courses and October 1st for spring courses. If approved by the school board, the cost is covered by the high school.

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N/A

This course is not available for Dual Credit or Start College Now due to factors such as course rigor, necessary equipment, and prerequisite requirements.