What Is It Known For?
The Maryland Plumbing, Heating, Cooling Contractors Association (Maryland PHCC) has served the PHC industry since 1883 as a membership and trade organization. Over 140 years of operation have positioned it as the voice of an industry with more than 3,500 members nationwide.
Maryland PHCC runs education programs for people entering the field through its Plumbing Apprenticeship Program. Continuing education, certification, and recertification courses round out the offerings, particularly Backflow training.
Classes meet at two locations: Catonsville Community College and Essex Community College. For student enrollment figures, contact the school directly.
Degrees & Certifications
Maryland PHCC offers trade-based certificates tied to licensing paths.
The Plumbing Apprenticeship program includes 165 classroom hours each year and covers trade math, theory instruction, blueprint reading, safety standards, state plumbing code, and OSHA construction safety.
As apprentices progress, specialized instruction is added. Third-year students complete a Journey Gas Fitters course (36 hours), while fourth-year apprentices take a state-approved 32-hour Backflow Certification course.
A Certificate of Completion is awarded at the end of each year when requirements are met.
The Backflow Certification course prepares students for Journey/Master Plumber examination requirements, while an 8-hour recertification option supports license renewal. You also get certified as a Backflow Prevention Tester/Mechanic.
Class Schedules
Apprenticeship combines two elements. You work roughly 40 hours weekly to complete 7,500 on-the-job training hours across four years (this counts as externship experience for the program). Classroom sessions happen two evenings per week from September through May (6 p.m. to 9 p.m.) for 55 total sessions.
Backflow Certification classes run monthly from January through November at Dundalk Community College, taught by TREEO-certified instructors. You can attend Monday/Wednesday sessions at 5:30 p.m. or Saturday/Sunday sessions at 7:30 a.m.
There’s no information on online or afternoon classes.
Is It a Good Program?
Yes. The Maryland Apprenticeship and Training Council (MATC) has accredited the Maryland PHCC Plumbing Apprenticeship Program as a four-year training pathway.
Acceptance Rate
An official acceptance rate is not listed. Enrollment depends on space availability and basic admission requirements. Applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
Tuition is $2,350 for Maryland PHCC member employees and $4,700 for non-members. Tuition covers books, safety training, CPR instruction, and backflow coursework. A net price calculator is not used for this program.
Programs & Courses
Skilled Trades
- Plumbing Apprenticeship Program
Campus Locations
Ellicott City 10176 Baltimore National Pike, Ste. 205 Ellicott City, MD 21042
Reviews
Based on local Google reviews, the Maryland Plumbing, Heating & Cooling Contractors (PHCC) association is highly regarded as a professional pillar for trade contractors in the Ellicott City area. While it is a professional trade association rather than a traditional school, it is a vital resource for industry networking and advocacy.
Overall Score: 5.0/5 Stars
Common Praises
Respected Industry Association: Members and local guides describe it as a “great association,” highlighting its role in supporting plumbing and HVAC professionals across Maryland.
Professional Advocacy: Reviewers and industry data point to the organization’s strength in providing legislative advocacy, ensuring that the interests of local contractors are represented at the state level.
Networking and Growth: The association is praised for fostering a professional community where business owners can connect, share best practices, and access industry-specific resources.
Common Criticisms
Limited Public Feedback: Because this is a professional membership organization rather than a consumer-facing service provider, there are very few public reviews available. However, the feedback from active members is perfect.
Niche Focus: Some prospective visitors may find that the organization’s resources are strictly tailored to licensed contractors and business owners rather than individual homeowners or DIY enthusiasts.
Momentum
The momentum for the Maryland PHCC is stable and professional. It remains a key partner for Maryland’s trade workforce, consistently hosting industry events and providing updates on changing building codes and regulations. Its long-standing presence in Ellicott City reinforces its reputation as a reliable backbone for the state’s mechanical contractors.