What is Mechanical Contracting?

What is mechanical contracting?

An overview of the industry, and how you can start your career in it through one of our Union apprenticeship programs.

An essential industry.

Mechanical contracting is the industry responsible for designing, installing, maintaining, and servicing the essential systems that keep buildings comfortable, safe, and operating efficiently. These systems include heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), plumbing, piping, refrigeration, controls, and energy management.

Mechanical contractors work on a wide variety of projects, from homes and schools to hospitals, data centers, office buildings, manufacturing facilities, and sports venues. They combine skilled trades, engineering, technology, and project management to deliver complex building systems that improve performance, sustainability, and occupant comfort.

The mechanical contracting industry offers rewarding career opportunities for individuals with a wide range of interests and skill sets. Whether you enjoy working with your hands, solving technical challenges, designing systems, managing projects, or leading teams, there is a pathway for you. From apprenticeships and skilled trades to engineering, estimating, virtual design (BIM), project management, service, and executive leadership, mechanical contracting provides stable, high-demand careers with opportunities for continuous growth and advancement.

Earn while you learn.

Two nationally recognized Union apprenticeship programs prepare the next generation of plumbing and steamfitting professionals throughout Metropolitan Washington.

UA Plumbers & Gasfitters

Local 5 Apprenticeship

The UA Local 5 Apprenticeship Program prepares the next generation of highly skilled plumbing professionals through a combination of paid on-the-job training and classroom instruction. Recognized throughout the United States and Canada, the program equips apprentices with the technical knowledge, certifications, and hands-on experience needed for a successful, lifelong career.

Apprentices earn while they learn, gaining valuable experience on active job sites while working toward a rewarding career in the plumbing industry.

What You’ll Gain

Paid, hands-on training alongside experienced journeyworkers
Nationally recognized UA training
Industry certifications, including Medical Gas, Backflow Prevention, CFC, Welding, OSHA & Safety, and CPR/First Aid
Maryland Journeyworker Plumbing & Gasfitter Licenses
32 college credits

UA Steamfitters

Local 602 Apprenticeship

The UA Steamfitters Local 602 Apprenticeship Program prepares the next generation of skilled steamfitters through a combination of paid on-the-job training and classroom instruction. Apprentices gain the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to build successful careers working on residential, commercial, and industrial piping systems throughout the region.

Steamfitters fabricate, install, and service piping systems that keep buildings and industries running. As an apprentice, you’ll develop valuable technical skills while earning a paycheck and preparing for a rewarding, long-term career in the mechanical industry.

What You’ll Gain

Five-year, earn-while-you-learn apprenticeship
Paid, hands-on training with experienced union contractors
Classroom instruction at UA Mechanical Trade School campuses in Landover, MD, Springfield, VA, and Manassas, VA
Industry-recognized certifications and technical training
Opportunities to work on HVAC, refrigeration, power generation, manufacturing, and industrial piping systems

A tuition-free education valued at more than $45,000

See all the ways in.

Beyond the trades, mechanical contracting welcomes professionals from engineering, business, finance, IT, sustainability, and beyond. Explore all the career pathways the industry has to offer.