What Is It Known For?
The Plumbing Academy, founded in 2016 by Norman St. Hilaire, Jr., is an independent vocational school offering specialized plumbing training. Unlike larger state community colleges, it focuses on delivering hands-on skills through live online eLearning sessions, allowing students to learn at their own pace.
While the school doesn’t share specific enrollment numbers, it offers a variety of online resources like quizzes and exams to help both apprentices and journeyman plumbers assess their knowledge in areas such as code, installation, tools, and service.
Degrees & Certifications
The Plumbing Academy offers a range of courses, including:
- Plumbing Fundamentals
- Gas-Fitting Training
- 55-Hour Refresher Course
The school also had a continuing education program, though it is not available at this time.
Class Schedules
The Plumbing Academy offers evening sessions from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, Monday through Friday. The schedule varies depending on the tier you’re enrolled in, and assignments are self-paced with weekly due dates.
The courses are designed to be flexible, with live and pre-recorded webinars available, along with tutoring sessions led by instructors. While the school does not offer externships or on-site classes, you can reach out directly to get more details or discuss your specific needs.
Is It a Good School?
Yes, The Plumbing Academy is licensed by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Division of Professional Licensure. The school is also approved as a Theory School by the Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters.
These certifications reflect the school’s commitment to providing quality training in plumbing and gas fitting.
Acceptance Rate
The school does not publish an acceptance rate. For more details, we recommend contacting The Plumbing Academy directly.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
Tuition costs vary depending on the program. The 55-Hour Refresher course is priced at $850, while each Tier course costs $1,500, which includes a $50 administration fee. Here’s what is included in each tier:
- Tier 1: OSHA10 card, plumbing/gas-fitting math formula book, and a general plumbing/gas-fitting handbook.
- Tier 2: Plumbing/gas-fitting math formula book and a Tier 2 plumbing/gas-fitting handbook.
- Tiers 3-5: Plumbing/gas-fitting math formula book.
The school also offers a $250 discount per course for active-duty military, reservists, veterans, or those who are retired or disabled. Since there is no net price calculator available, it’s best to contact the school directly for more detailed information on tuition and any additional fees.
Programs & Courses
Skilled Trades
- Plumbing
- Gas-Fitting
Campus Locations
Middleton The Plumbing Academy Inc. Middleton, MA 01949
Reviews
Based on local Google reviews, The Plumbing Academy, Inc., is highly regarded for its rigorous, code-focused training aimed at preparing students to pass the Massachusetts Journeyman Plumber’s License exam. The school is consistently described as a demanding, no-nonsense environment best suited for serious and committed students.
Overall Score: 4.8/5 Stars
Common Praises
Exceptional Exam Preparation: The school’s primary strength is its success in getting students to pass the journeyman exam on the first try. Many reviewers credit the program’s structure and depth of code study for their success.
Highly Dedicated Lead Instructor: The Lead Instructor is repeatedly highlighted for their immense knowledge, passion, and dedication to the craft. Reviews often describe the teaching as in-depth to the code book and doing a great job relating it to real life experiences.
Tough but Effective Coaching: Multiple students acknowledge that the Lead Instructor can be a “ball buster” or “test your limits,” but view this as “the right amount of tough coaching” that prepares them for the reality in the field. The school’s philosophy is clearly stated: it is “not for your average slouch.”
Strong Support Staff: Several reviews acknowledge the excellent work of the Support and Operations Staff for putting the comprehensive program together and contributing to a positive experience.
Structured Tier Program: The multi-tier structure of the plumbing program is commended, with students reporting a feeling of being “fully prepared” after completing all five tiers.
Common Criticisms
Challenging Instructor Temperament (Isolated Complaints): A small minority of reviewers describe the Lead Instructor as a “tough guy to learn from” and “very rude,” with one complaint specifically alleging harsh treatment related to not answering questions quickly enough during an online session.
Rigid Class Procedures: The school enforces a disciplined environment, including strict technical requirements (e.g., hard-wired internet, webcam, microphone) for online classes, and a zero-tolerance policy for certain forms of non-compliance, such as unexcused absences or incomplete assignments. Students are explicitly warned they can be removed from class if they are unprepared.
Momentum
The recent reviews continue to be highly positive, focusing heavily on the excellent experience with the Lead Instructor and the easy enrollment process with the Support Staff. This demonstrates a strong and sustained positive momentum, especially among students completing the full 5-tier program and passing their exams. The few negative reviews, while significant, are isolated and do not appear to be part of a growing trend. The school’s quick and personalized responses to reviews also suggest a strong commitment to engaging with its student base.