AUSTIN, Texas — September 10, 2025 — ABC Central Texas today announced the graduation of 13 plumbing apprentices who successfully completed four years of classroom instruction and on-the-job training through the chapter’s industry-recognized program. The new graduates are stepping into a Central Texas market where contractors report steady demand for skilled plumbers to support Central Texas’ rapid growth.

“This week, we celebrate the grit and perseverance of these graduates and the employers who invested in their training,” said Crystal Smith, President, ABC Central Texas. “This graduating class represents the first class of our apprenticeship program.  We are excited to be an option for merit shop contractors in training their employees through a registered apprenticeship program.”

Industry data underscores the strong outlook. In July 2025, the Texas Workforce Commission reports the Texas construction industry grew by 3.2 percent over the year in Texas and outperformed the industry’s growth rate nationally by two percentage points.  In the broader construction sector, Associated Builders and Contractors estimates the industry must attract 439,000 additional workers in 2025 alone to meet demand—highlighting opportunities across the skilled trades.

The ABC Central Texas apprenticeship model lets participants “earn while they learn,” combining paid on-the-job experience with related technical instruction aligned to industry standards and Texas licensing requirements. Employers benefit from a pipeline of safety-minded, code-literate craft professionals who can contribute on day one and grow into leadership roles.

“Our apprenticeship program is a proven pathway to a great career without the burden of college debt.  Through additional outreach to high schools we hope to continue the message that there are great careers in construction not just jobs.” added Smith. “We’re proud of this class and excited to see the impact they’ll make on jobsites and in our communities.”