02101 – Introduction to the Plumbing Profession
NCCER Introduction to the Plumbing Profession Module 02101 (5 Hours)
Craft Instructor: Donald Callaway
Required Textbook/Materials Plumbing Level 1, 5th Edition, NCCER (Pearson). Published: June 22, 2022. Trainee Guide ISBN: 978-0-13-793383-9 Module-specific resources (including 02101): ISBN 978-0-13-793392-1 NCCERconnect access card or bundle (recommended for digital delivery; includes Pearson eText, interactive activities, videos, quizzes, and gradebook).
Preferred Curriculum Delivery NCCERconnect serves as the primary online platform for self-paced interactive content, eText reading, multimedia resources, assessments, and progress tracking. This is blended with instructor-led presentations, classroom discussions, group activities, and practical examples delivered by Craft Instructor Donald Callaway for enhanced engagement and application.
Course Description This module introduces trainees to the many career opportunities available to well-trained plumbers. It provides a brief history of plumbing and reviews the trade’s current technologies, industries, and professional associations that make up the modern plumbing profession. Human relations and safety skills needed to succeed in the trade are also covered.
Learning Objectives Upon successful completion of this module, trainees will be able to:
- Describe the history of the plumbing profession.
- Identify career opportunities, sectors (residential, commercial, industrial), responsibilities, and stages of progress (apprentice, journeyman, master plumber) in the plumbing profession and its positive impact on society.
- State the personal characteristics and professional qualities required of a successful plumber.
- Discuss current technologies, industries, and professional associations (e.g., PHCC, ASPE, IAPMO, UA).
- Demonstrate knowledge of applicable state/local laws, rules, regulations, codes, and licensing requirements.
- Identify how green/sustainable technologies are incorporated into modern plumbing practices.
- Review foundational human relations skills and basic safety awareness relevant to the profession.
Alignment with Kansas Educational Standards Yes. This NCCER module fully aligns with Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) Career and Technical Education (CTE) standards in the Architecture & Construction career cluster, specifically supporting the Construction & Design pathway and Plumbing Technology programs (course code 17058). NCCER curricula and credentials (including Core + Plumbing Level 1) are recognized in the KSDE CTE Resource Guide as approved industry-validated content and portable credentials for secondary/postsecondary programs, articulation, and career readiness in Kansas construction trades.
Subject Index / Course Outline (Spreadsheet-Style Table)
| Section / Topic | Key Subjects Covered | Estimated Time | Delivery Method | Assessment / Activities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Introduction to the Plumbing Profession & Career Opportunities | Overview of plumber roles, job outlook, sectors (residential/commercial/industrial), new construction vs. service/repair | 1.0 hour | NCCERconnect eText + Instructor-led presentation & discussion | Interactive quiz, group career mapping activity |
| 2. History of Plumbing | Ancient origins (aqueducts, early systems) through modern developments; societal impact | 1.0 hour | NCCERconnect videos/readings + Instructor lecture | Review questions, timeline exercise |
| 3. Professionalism, Responsibilities & Personal Characteristics | Ethics, teamwork, communication, qualities of a professional plumber; human relations skills | 0.75 hour | NCCERconnect modules + Instructor-led role-play/discussion | Self-assessment, participation rubric |
| 4. Current Technologies, Industries & Professional Associations | Modern tools/tech, industry sectors, key organizations (PHCC, ASPE, etc.) | 1.0 hour | NCCERconnect interactive content + Instructor presentation | Association research activity, quiz |
| 5. Regulations, Codes, Licensing & Green/Sustainable Practices | State/local laws, codes, licensing; green tech, sustainability in plumbing | 0.75 hour | NCCERconnect readings + Instructor overview | Case study discussion, module quiz |
| 6. Safety Skills Overview & Trade Terminology | Basic safety awareness; key plumbing terms (e.g., appurtenances, rough-in concepts intro) | 0.5 hour | NCCERconnect summary + Instructor wrap-up | Vocabulary review, final knowledge check |
Total: 5 Hours
Assessments & Evaluation
- NCCER module written examination (administered via NCCERconnect; minimum 70% passing score for credentialing).
- Ongoing quizzes, review questions, and participation in instructor-led activities.
- No performance tasks required for this introductory knowledge-based module.
- Successful completion contributes to NCCER Plumbing Level 1 credential and KS CTE pathway recognition.
Prerequisites None (Core Curriculum recommended as foundational).
Policies Attendance and active participation required. Digital devices for NCCERconnect access encouraged. Safety and professionalism emphasized throughout.
This syllabus is designed for flexible delivery (classroom, hybrid, or short-session formats) and prepares trainees for subsequent Plumbing Level 1 modules while meeting national and Kansas standards. For enrollment, scheduling, or NCCERconnect setup, contact Craft Instructor Donald Callaway.
Sources for key details: Official NCCER/ Pearson publications (5th Edition, 2022) and KSDE CTE Resource Guide.