Pipefitter Career Guide in Wisconsin
Explore pipefitter salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Wisconsin.
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How to Become a Pipefitter in Wisconsin
Wisconsin plumbing and pipefitting apprenticeships combine paid employment with technical instruction. Workers performing regulated plumbing must register or hold the DSPS credential appropriate to their duties and supervision level.
Note: Training pathways vary by employer, program sponsor, and licensing category. Classroom education may provide useful technical preparation, but it does not automatically replace supervised work experience unless the applicable licensing authority specifically allows that credit.
Pipefitter Salary in Wisconsin
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Wisconsin median wage for pipefitter workers, based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational wage data. A median wage is the point at which half of workers earn more and half earn less. It is not a guaranteed starting salary.
Actual earnings may vary by experience, license level, metropolitan area, employer, industry, overtime, and union agreement.
Compared with the national median of $62,970, the median wage in Wisconsin is approximately $18,240 higher. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Pipefitters in Wisconsin
Note: Licensing rules, fees, examinations, exemptions, and renewal requirements may change. Applicants should verify current requirements directly with the authority listed above before beginning work, applying for an examination, or enrolling in a training program.
CAREER PREPARATIONPipefitter Training Requirements in Wisconsin
Wisconsin pipefitters normally enter the occupation through a paid registered apprenticeship. Anyone performing regulated plumbing must hold the Department of Safety and Professional Services credential appropriate to the work.
- Register with an approved apprenticeship sponsor and with DSPS when plumbing-apprentice registration is required.
- Complete the required paid on-the-job training and related classroom instruction.
- Develop skills in pipe layout, welding, fabrication, rigging, code compliance, testing, and workplace safety.
- Pass required examinations and renew any applicable state plumbing credentials.
Pipefitter Training Providers in Wisconsin
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee Area Technical College | Milwaukee | View Program |
| Northeast Wisconsin Technical College | Green Bay | View Program |
| Madison College | Madison | View Program |
| Fox Valley Technical College | Appleton | View Program |
Note: Program availability, admission requirements, tuition, and credit toward licensing requirements may change. Verify current details directly with the provider and the applicable state licensing authority before enrolling. Listings are informational and do not constitute rankings or endorsements.
PAID TRAINING OPPORTUNITIESPipefitter Apprenticeship Programs in Wisconsin
Wisconsin Steamfitter Apprenticeship
Organization: Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development
Pipefitter Licensing Requirements in Wisconsin
Wisconsin requires Department of Safety and Professional Services credentials for regulated plumbing work. Available credentials include Registered Plumbing Apprentice, Journeyman Plumber, Master Plumber, and restricted specialty credentials. Wisconsin does not issue a separate general industrial-pipefitter license.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSPipefitter Job Outlook in Wisconsin
Wisconsin projects employment to increase from 9,930 in 2022 to 11,000 in 2032. This represents 11% growth, with approximately 950 annual job openings.
Note: State employment projections may use a different base period from national BLS projections. Projected growth is an estimate rather than a guarantee of employment, and local demand may vary by metropolitan area, industry, construction activity, and employer investment.
CAREER QUESTIONSFrequently Asked Questions
What is the pipefitter salary in Wisconsin?
The statewide median wage for pipefitters in Wisconsin is approximately $81,210 per year, or $39.04 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Wisconsin require pipefitter licensing?
Yes. Wisconsin requires individuals performing regulated, non-exempt pipefitter work to hold the appropriate license or credential. Applicants should verify the current license category, experience, examination, and renewal requirements with Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services.
How long does it take to become a pipefitter in Wisconsin?
The time required depends on the license pathway and training program. A typical training pathway takes approximately 4–5 Years Apprenticeship, although licensing, apprenticeship, and employer requirements may differ.
Are pipefitters in demand in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin projects pipefitter employment to grow by approximately 11% from 2022 to 2032, with about 950 openings per year. Projections include both new positions and openings created when workers leave the occupation.
Career Data Sources
State wage, employment outlook, and licensing information is reviewed using government and official regulatory sources. Data and requirements may change after publication.
- May 2024 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates — U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. May 2024 State OEWS
- Wisconsin Wages for Pipefitter (SOC 47-2152) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Wisconsin Pipefitter Wages
- Wisconsin Pipefitter Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Wisconsin Pipefitter Employment Trends
- Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services — Licensing authority. Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services