Best Plumbing Schools in Ames, Iowa (2025)

Updated October 22, 2025 | Brad Fishbein

Table of Contents

Plumber Training in Ames, Iowa

Plumbers in Iowa enjoy steady demand, competitive salaries, and excellent job stability.

While there are many ways to become a plumber, one of the most effective is enrolling in a top-rated training program. Below we've outlined how to get started, plus a few of the best plumbing schools near Ames.

Affordable Online Plumbing Programs Now Accepting Students in Ames, Iowa:

Plumbing Training Near Ames

#1 Kirkwood Community College

Cedar Rapids, IA • 101.4 miles away

Kirkwood Community College is a Public, 2-year in Cedar Rapids, IA serving about 7,438 students and accredited by Higher Learning Commission. Kirkwood Community College offers plumbing technology training alongside programs like Automotive Technology, Dental Assistant, Emergency Medical Technician. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across IA.

Tuition

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Contact

6301 Kirkwood Blvd SW Cedar Rapids, IA 52406-2068

#2 Northeast Iowa Community College

Calmar, IA • 119 miles away

Northeast Iowa Community College is a Public, 2-year in Calmar, IA. Northeast Iowa Community College offers plumbing technology training alongside programs like Automotive Technology, Cosmetology, Dental Assistant. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across IA.

Tuition

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Contact

1625 Hwy 150 Calmar, IA 52132-0400

#3 Iowa Western Community College

Council Bluffs, IA • 123.1 miles away

Iowa Western Community College is a Public, 2-year in Council Bluffs, IA serving about 3,029 students and accredited by Higher Learning Commission. Iowa Western Community College offers plumbing technology training alongside programs like Automotive Technology, Aviation Maintenance, Culinary Arts. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across IA.

Tuition

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Contact

2700 College Rd Council Bluffs, IA 51503-1057

#4 Western Iowa Tech Community College

Sioux City, IA • 142.3 miles away

Western Iowa Tech Community College is a Public, 2-year in Sioux City, IA. Western Iowa Tech Community College offers plumbing technology training alongside programs like Automotive Technology, Dental Assistant, Electrician. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across IA.

Tuition

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Contact

4647 Stone Ave Sioux City, IA 51102-5199

#5 Southwest Wisconsin Technical College

Fennimore, WI • 165.7 miles away

Southwest Wisconsin Technical College is a Public, 2-year in Fennimore, WI. Southwest Wisconsin Technical College offers plumbing technology training alongside programs like Automotive Technology, Cosmetology, Dental Assistant. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across WI.

Tuition

Contact school for pricing

Contact

1800 Bronson Blvd Fennimore, WI 53809-9778

Licensing Steps in Iowa

Most plumbers in Iowa follow this pathway:

  1. Complete an approved trade school, community college program, or registered apprenticeship.
  2. Log the required on-the-job training hours under a licensed journeyman or master plumber.
  3. Pass the state-required exams covering the state plumbing code (UPC/IPC), safety, and business rules.

Tips for Choosing a School

  • Tour the lab to see the tools, pipe mockups, and safety gear students use every day.
  • Compare schedules — many Ames programs offer evening, weekend, or accelerated tracks.
  • Ask about tuition assistance, GI Bill eligibility, and employer sponsorships that lower out-of-pocket costs.
  • Confirm the program helps you document hours for state licensing or union apprenticeship applications.

Next Steps

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Brad Fishbein Licensed Mold Assessor

Meet the author: Brad Fishbein is a Florida Licensed Mold Assessor and council-certified Microbial Investigator. He’s the founder of TradeCareerPath.com and has completed over 5,000 mold inspections since 2009. Brad now helps homeowners and tradespeople make smart decisions about mold, licensing, and skilled career paths.