Western Wyoming Community College, committed to empowering students with real-world skills, recently welcomed Aspen Mountain Plumbing’s Lance Ball to share insights into the plumbing industry.
Lance Ball, the founder of Aspen Mountain Plumbing, recently visited Western Wyoming Community College. He was invited by Kristi Young, one of the faculty members at the college.
In hopes of inspiring students, Lance shared his story and spoke about the current state of the plumbing industry.
"It was really about helping students understand the value of skilled trades and encouraging them to pursue careers in fields like plumbing," said Ball.
Learning About Plumbing
During his visit, he spoke to the students about what it takes to work in plumbing. He explained that being a plumber requires hard work, problem-solving skills, and a willingness to learn every day.
"Plumbing is an essential service that everyone relies on. And it's not just about fixing pipes, replacing units, or unclogging drains; it is about helping the people that make up the community. It's about making sure homeowners and business owners can go about their day comfortably," said Ball.
Lance shared stories about his journey, starting Aspen Mountain Plumbing, and the challenges he faced along the way. He wanted students to see that, even though it can be difficult, a career in plumbing can be very rewarding.
Becoming a Licensed Plumber in Wyoming
Wyoming is a state that values skilled trades, and plumbing is no exception. If you're considering a career as a plumber in Wyoming, it's essential to understand the licensing process.
Unlike many other states, Wyoming does not offer a state-level plumbing license. Instead, plumbing licenses are issued by local jurisdictions, each with its own set of requirements. This can be confusing because some jurisdictions may have different requirements. For example, in Rock Springs, Wyoming, all that is required is a contractor’s license, but in a city like Casper, Wyoming, a plumbing license is required.
Real-Life Experience
Lance also talked about the importance of real-life experience. He shared real examples from his work, explaining different plumbing situations he has faced over the years. Lance wanted students to know that while learning in the classroom is important, hands-on work is what really helps you understand plumbing. He explained that every job is different, and each day brings new challenges, which keeps the work interesting.
"I told the students at Western Wyoming Community College that the key to building confidence and expertise in this trade is to seek out opportunities for practical learning," said Ball.
Whether it's through an internship, part-time work, or an apprenticeship with a skilled mentor, immersing yourself in the day-to-day challenges of plumbing is the best way to hone your craft.
The Partnership Between Aspen Mountain Plumbing and Western Wyoming Community College
Aspen Mountain Plumbing is excited about continuing its involvement with Western Wyoming Community College in the future. Lance and his team are looking forward to more opportunities to share their knowledge and experiences with students and the great faculty at the college.
"There's tremendous upside in local businesses and schools working together to help students gain the skills they need to succeed," said Ball.
By building on this partnership, Aspen Mountain Plumbing aims to help shape the next generation of skilled plumbers and ensure that students have access to the tools and insights they need to succeed.
Plumber Wages in Wyoming
To motivate students in Wyoming to pursue a career in plumbing, it's essential to highlight the attractive wages in this trade. Lance explained that plumbers in Wyoming earn a good income, which makes this career even more appealing.
Annual Wage
The average annual wage for licensed plumbers in Wyoming is $59,260. This is about 10% higher than the national average for plumbers, which is $55,160. Lance explained that this higher wage can provide financial stability and a comfortable lifestyle.
Hourly Wage
The average hourly wage for licensed plumbers in Wyoming is $28.49, compared to the national average of $26.52. Lance emphasized that these wages show how valuable skilled plumbers are, especially in Wyoming.
Wage Comparison
To put these figures into perspective, let's compare Wyoming plumber wages to national averages:
Based on May 2023 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Hard Work Matters
Lance told the students that working in plumbing requires effort and dedication. He said that sometimes, it can be tough, with long hours and challenging situations. But if you stay motivated and keep learning, it becomes easier and more rewarding over time.
He talked about the satisfaction that comes from solving tough problems and helping people in need. Lance encouraged the students not to be afraid of hard work because it leads to personal growth and success.
He shared a story about one of his early jobs, where he faced a difficult plumbing issue that seemed impossible to fix. Through persistence, asking questions, and learning from his mistakes, he was able to solve the problem. Lance used this story to show that even when things seem hard, dedication and a positive attitude can help you overcome any challenge.
The Importance of Mentorship
Lance spoke about the importance of having mentors in the plumbing industry. He explained that having someone experienced to guide you can make a huge difference in your career. Mentors can provide advice, share their own experiences, and help you avoid common mistakes.
Lance credited his own mentors for helping him grow as a plumber and eventually start his own business. He encouraged students to find mentors who could help them on their journey and to never be afraid to ask questions.
Thank You to Kristi Young and Western Wyoming Community College
Lance thanked Kristi Young and Western Wyoming Community College for inviting him.
Kristi Young, an ABE Instructor at Western Wyoming Community College, praised Kristi and the staff for helping students reach their dreams. Western Wyoming Community College is doing great work in preparing students for their future jobs, and Lance is happy to support them.
Aspen Mountain Plumbing’s Message for the Students
Lance finished by telling the students to keep dreaming big.
"Working in plumbing is not always easy, but it’s worth it. Keep learning, keep working hard, and you can make a big difference in your community."
Lance Ball added that every plumber starts as a beginner, and with time, effort, and a willingness to learn, they can all achieve great things.
Get Involved and Make a Difference
Lance encouraged everyone to get involved in their community and support the next generation of skilled professionals. He said that whether you are a student, a business owner, or just someone who wants to help, you can make a big difference.
Supporting education, providing mentorship, and encouraging young people to pursue their dreams are all ways to help build a stronger future for everyone.
Together, we can inspire, motivate, and guide the next generation as they pursue their dreams and shape the world around us. The future is bright, and with the right support and encouragement, there is no limit to what we can achieve.
To learn more about Western Wyoming Community College, visit www.westernwyoming.edu.
To learn more about Aspen Mountain Plumbing, visit www.aspenmtnplumbing.com.