Making $105K A Year As A Plumber in San Antonio, TX | On The Job

Richard Armendariz, 30, is a plumber for Bluefrog Plumbing + Drain in San Antonio, Texas. He's expecting to make between $105,000-$125,000 this year, including overtime. The father of two previously worked as a pool cleaner making $12/hour, or roughly $25,000 a year with no overtime.
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Making $105K A Year As A Plumber in San Antonio, TX | On The Job

[@aerohk]

105k is king's salary in San Antonio. Killing it.

[@chrislanejones]

And no f'ing income tax!

[@rnhim2072]

until the Californians invade like they're doing to Austin

[@ErickaWilliamsCC]

it really is... I am in austin... it goes much further in san antonio

[@lj3507]

@@chrislanejones Incredibly high property tax, though.

[@andylinkOFFICIAL]

@Pinned by CNBC Maᴋe It phish much?

[@dddaaaannnnn]

This guy is so confident in himself and seems so happy with his life. I'm so impressed!

[@ToddBaldwin]

6 figures per year and no student loan debt. This man is a king.

[@howlbeast]

Exactly! IDK why teachers were looking down on him for picking a trade.. teachers are supposed to be counselors/influencers/motivators instead they act like crabs by dragging him down at the barrel so he can suffer together with their debt. UNCOOL & screw em cos you're laughing now

[@riEfs85]

You're one of the other guys featured on this channel, right?

[@ToddBaldwin]

@@riEfs85 I was on Millennial Money about a year ago

[@jgg204]

@@howlbeast teachers frown upon trade / skilled labor work because they are incentivized to do that. teachers are "in business" to teach from the book. same goes for professors. once people waked up to the fact that college is 90% a lie and most will not benefit from their 4 yrs degree in today's work force, they will stop going, and then teachers/professors will lose their jobs.

[@howlbeast]

@@jgg204 IF i was a teacher i'd NEVER tell kids go college I want them to be happy and find an avenue beside college

[@Ben-cl2co]

It's so strange how the image of learning a trade has changed. We need these guys for everything. Build a house, build a road, keep the streets clean, fix our cars etc etc. Big chance you never need a lawyer but you sure need these guys every day!

[@dmonleon24]

Love to see it fr

[@pastmemories1035]

Lawyers and other high educated people earn the money needed to buy food and energy from abroad. Plumbing can be automated through modular design and this is what Chinese are doing.

[@pastmemories1035]

Cars are no more fixed but made like handphones. Search E-GMP. Also the Chinese make buildings similarly to mass produced electronic components.

[@Brad210UIW]

It hasn't changed all that much. It just gets a teeny bit more attention.

[@Brad210UIW]

@@pastmemories1035 plumbing cannot be automated. Show me an automation to install a new water heater like he was doing. Or completely rerun piping.

[@connorminney4691]

The fact that he had to drop out of community college because the textbook was $500 should not be overlooked.

[@demikpre]

And nothing about the book worth is worth 500 😤

[@CoolnesXcore]

There's always a free version online or you could even get a used book / older edition

[@stac]

Aint he glad that the book was $500? so that he could dropout and make 100+K now?

[@152CRKing]

100%

[@edilangsultan3522]

Yep, a book that is equal to an average monthly salary of an average low end corporate worker in my country. RIDICULOUS.

[@downloadgoblin]

When you’re making more money than the teachers that frowned on your chosen profession.

[@DiamondFlame45]

He is making more than some engineers too bro.

[@justicejoycetv]

Your title is quite fitting for this post you made.

[@tonyaldorsey]

Dude almost everyone makes more than teachers. :(

[@jgg204]

@@DiamondFlame45 true, but the hours he puts in are crazy and it's ok when you're young but it's not sustainable when you're older. doing back to back 12 hr shifts 6 days a week means you don't have a life to enjoy to spend the money on

[@DiamondFlame45]

@@johnhunt9674 Especially as the younger generations refuse to go to the trades. It’s only going to get better for the trades because so many people want cushy office jobs but not enough folks want to do the manual labor

[@Mr1wd]

This guy makes more than me at an engineering job with a masters degree!

[@prettygirlus9008]

Same here!

[@justicejoycetv]

More than us nonprofit attorneys and state workers. 🤷🏿‍♀️ Good for him.

[@lupavo1738]

That maybe true, but you have better/higher pay progression and it isn't commission based. On top of that, you only work 40 hours a week. This guy is working 10-12 hours 6-7 days a week.

[@vaibhavpatel2278]

Which engineering did you do ?

[@xcelpast]

But the difference is you sit in an air conditioned office, work 9-5, have a nice cushy lunch break, and you can be an engineer until you're 60+. Labor jobs stop when your body stops probably when you're in your early 50s. Big difference.

[@tysolomano5754]

Trust, 105-125k in San Antonio is a greeeeeat living

[@iangraham5320]

And everyone the went to college is broke paying off their loans doing jobs they don't enjoy!

[@tysolomano5754]

@@iangraham5320 I graduated college with zero debt, but took me 8 years to get a STEM degree. I feel as though people should start school later in life and figure out what they want to do before pulling loans.

[@iangraham5320]

@@tysolomano5754 good on you obviously we need people with those degrees. People just need to be aware of how to go about it!

[@humble_frog]

​@@tysolomano5754 Americans should try and restructure how school debt is done too - here in Australia you don't even pay back your loans until you start earning over a certain amount per year and even then it only gets deducted from your tax return (so you're not paying it off like a private car loan or mortgage etc). Lower interest too because banks here aren't allowed to privatise university debt.

[@weirdflex8158]

@@iangraham5320 I mean that is a very general statement just because some people do that does not make that true. People with a good college degree still make way more than people who dont

[@elenavelasquez208]

Shout out to Richard for finding a great career, having no student loan debt, and being a solid father and provider for his family! More millennials need to go into trades (even if we’re in our late 20s). Happy he was able to make it!

[@pastmemories1035]

Millenials should not trades but study hard and become electronics and software Ph.D's who earn a country's bread through export of digital products. Nowadays corporate freshmen earn $50000 as first yearly income and there are 1 million $100000 earners for a population of 50 millions therefore in the US 6 million college graudates earn over $100000. Times have changed , the world has changed, as Alvin Toffler told the whole world about 3 decades ago. Thus, river and mountains have changed three times since Toffler said the world is changing.

[@jollygoodgordon5580]

I’m 28 and I’m going to become a plumber too. Love technical skill and working with my hands and being able to help people.

[@oat-ik5ih]

@@pastmemories1035?😂

[@jmr18p]

Trades are so overlooked. I did 5 years at university for an engineering degree and one of my good friends went the trade route. Needless to say, he earns more than me with no earnings cap (minimal debt) and similarly has obtained invaluable hands on skills (He's getting ready to start his own business). Nothing but respect for this king. 105k-125k in Texas is awesome.

[@rogeliobarraza1772]

What trade did he enter?

[@stylezunknown]

As an engineer you'll be fine. Engineers doesn't retire broke, usually.

[@shhh3683]

​@@stylezunknownnor the people in trade. So what's your point?

[@miltonaldridge4170]

​@@shhh3683lol whoever I replied to a whole year ago already deleted their comment so I have no idea 😂

[@zachlovescats95]

@@stylezunknown Jobs that require a bachelor's degree (yes, including engineers) are overblown. Engineers still struggle.

[@gs5480]

This makes me so proud to be a plumber. So stoked to see my plumbing brothers grinding and making good money to provide for their families. Plumb on brothers!

[@paquitopito9289]

Im in high school right now, and i really wanna do plumbing, what would be your advice?

[@redverge7833]

@@paquitopito9289me too bro

[@koonyeezy6433]

@@paquitopito9289Do it bro it’s easy most of the time, and you can make a shitload of money.

[@koonyeezy6433]

@@redverge7833Do it now it’s good money.

[@TantheMan1995]

I am a young plumber like this guy, he’s a role model for a young guy like me.

[@aroraji9966]

How can we move into trade in the USA , I am ready to do license course, apprenticeship etc.. whatever is required.. ? Can you help me with this bcz I could not find any program for immigrants so that we can get work visa and stay there..

[@Mukapanavo]

@@dpeboyonplug1762i live in France to. Did you find a plumber job? Tks

[@mariowatson7150]

Can’t wait, my interview for a plumbing apprenticeship is in August.

[@MisterBungl3]

Good luck!

[@alfiand9269]

Will you wear red overall and maybe a mustache?

[@ryanthepianoman27]

@@alfiand9269 hi I just saw your comment

[@calvinsylveste8474]

Plumbing apprenticeship is where you learn how to evade taxes.

[@TheAGODAMI]

@@calvinsylveste8474 😒 *CaRe to eLaboRaTe.!??!?* 😈

[@agnesmumbi..]

I'm 65 and retired at 43 with a net worth of 2million $ and currently travelling with my partner, I've loved the FIRE movement, planned for it and i did it !! Anyone else can do it ..

[@debbiebarker7378]

What's fire movement??

[@agnesmumbi..]

@Mrs Charlottevera That's not true , some people make withdrawals despite being younger than that age

[@lk3225]

For one to make it in life him/her must understand the importance of planning ahead of time...Even the bible has it that "The prudence see danger and take refuge but the simple keeps going and pays the penalty The book of proverbs 27:12 Do not be discouraged investment is biblical, grow a solid investment today for a greater tomorrow

[@agnesmumbi..]

T ele gra m

[@agnesmumbi..]

Kim b er lyb us h0 1

[@brownskinbeauty.]

Imagine needing three college credits left to graduate and the only thing standing between you is a book. 500 for one book that you'll only use once, if that, is ridiculous.

[@cocomarineblu993]

You can take out loans.

[@roberth4395]

@@cocomarineblu993 no offense, but taking a loan for a book is ridiculous. Nobody would do this in europe. Not the universities, nor the teachers/students.

[@literallynoone2093]

@@roberth4395 Of course, it is ridiculous. But he could have had a degree if he did take the loan.

[@roberth4395]

@@literallynoone2093 if you would be in his situation wouldn't you try everything to male the money? We don't know the details. Maybe he maxed out his loans for other university related expenses. Then there is food, rent etc.

[@mister0sir]

I dont get how a book for community college costs $500. The most a single book has cost me for a university is $340 and thats because you had the buy the online component too. But even If that was true Amazon and used books sellers exist. Half of my books senior year I got through free pdfs. But at least he managed to get a good trade

[@Manuel-uf6sr]

Love how diverse these profiles are. Everyone has their own story on how they make it happen in life! Respect

[@putukumel]

Yes sir. I did the same thing. Switched from govt job to become union electrician after I got accepted into Union apprenticeship program in PA. Literally the best decision in my life. My local provided us with free education, brand new tools for us to keep, college tuition and laptops to do our online classes. The reason why I chose electrical work is I'm trying to get into EV charging/repair/install business in the future. I make about the same amount to this guy with a little overtime. I love what I do and cannot wait to embrace the new age of the electrical vehicle era which will give us electricians a lot to do and I also went to college and got a science degree...can't get a job afterward lol

[@Star-iw1kr]

What is it like working as a union apprenticeship

[@putukumel]

@@Star-iw1kr You work in the morning and goes to classes afterwards. From math, physics, control panels, etc. Just have a good attitude and willingness to learn, you’ll do great!

[@postalcode63]

Do you work 12 months a year or like 8?

[@Handymanphilly]

Can confirm. I switched from being a classically trained musician to a full time tradesman and it was one of the best decisions of my life.

[@Lennartnieuwland]

What trade did you start?

[@Handymanphilly]

@@Lennartnieuwland Hey! So, I do pretty much everything. Mostly electrical, framing and drywall and light plumbing. I literally started three years ago with a little tool kit that I had from Walmart and now have a full blown profitable business.

[@AndresBarrosMusic]

@@Handymanphilly John, I'd like to get started but the system here in my country is very different. There's no apprenticeships and whatnot like you guys have in the states. Can you recommend some channels/books/sites to get started with a little DIY since I haven't been able to find any courses here (Ecuador)? I'm more interested in plumbing. But anything will be much appreciated.

[@Handymanphilly]

@@AndresBarrosMusic Hey there! So, KZbin is a great resource. Basically, it’s all about solving problems. For instance, if you have a sink leak, you would search for the solution on KZbin and replicate the results. It’s really less about having all the answers and more about finding the answers and executing them. I would suggest starting small, but experience is really the best teacher.

[@realrareap2420]

Well yeah… musicians don’t make any money at all

[@trackourmoney5340]

Trades are one of the most overlooked careers... This guy's path will certainly only get better!

[@GameFuMaster]

it's physically demanding, but it pays off with an early retirement if you don't squander the money.

[@trackourmoney5340]

@@GameFuMaster Absolutely! Also, most people I know that work in a trade work for themselves.

[@GameFuMaster]

@@trackourmoney5340 It's definitely a liberating feeling when you don't have a boss who may constantly try to micromanage.

[@lupavo1738]

@@GameFuMaster Very rarely, but people in the trades do not retire early, that's a misconception. Most of people in the trades field currently working have on average 30-40+ years in service working well into old age.

[@omar9268]

@@lupavo1738 I think what he tried to say is that if you’re able to save money and pay off a house, you can retire early

[@leanneeggenberger9127]

Huge respect for plumbers and all trades in general. Local plumbers came to my parents' home in the middle of the night and literally saved the basement from a complete flood a couple of years ago when both of their sump pumps failed. That is one job I couldn't imagine doing.

[@Voltomess]

yes but they also charge ridiculous amounts of money for every job like unreal, same with car mechanics charging $200/h etc.

[@chrisdeister7745]

This story is beautiful. It’s clear everything worked out for him as it should. Yet, can’t help but want to go back in time to get this man that psychology book. Still, his community is clearly better off.

[@johnwig285]

@MoralSingularity ah here comes the political sheep attempting to twist every single thing into politics. I doubt he would thrived in an environment with politics obsessed psychos like u.

[@tinaperez7393]

Wow. Did you not get the message if this story? Not being able to afford that text book was the best thing that could have happened to him. A psychology textbook for $500?!?! Insane.

[@OneAdam12Adam]

@@johnwig285 You're a Russian Disinformation troll!

[@chickenandwaffles09]

He doesn’t need that book. He’s good to make more as a plumber than any psychologist.

[@ddavis8988]

3 credits left, though. If you get that close, you might as well finish. I'm sure that $500 means little to him now.

[@abdihasaan8587]

This guy is a prime example of what hard work is kudos to him and his. family.

[@LuisFlores-ic5gk]

As a plumber, I’ll never forget the freeze. Working 4 straight weeks, just to help so many people in San Antonio get there water back on.

[@brayantavera3427]

How are your hours do you get to spend time with your family?

[@LuisFlores-ic5gk]

@@brayantavera3427 yes you get plenty of time to spend with them, you just never know when you’ll get off. You can work from 7:30am-3pm depending if there’s a lot of work. Up to 8pm if you get stuck at a job. Plumbing is worth it brother.

[@sjadev]

And we’ll never forget y’all doing that for us

[@danim.2717]

I live in SATX and I am the same age as he is, trust me back when we started college 2010/2011, there was no online classes so we HAD to buy out books or rent (if there were books left over) My books cost me $300 (part time job for me) so I understand the books situation. 125K is amazing in SATX, I wish him and his family all the best.

[@nataliefontane]

I wish people were encouraged to get into trades more. We have too many college graduates with useless degrees (like my English one), and not enough competent plumbers, electricians, HVAC techs, etc.

[@ridgewoodgardens6253]

Hat tip to you for admitting it. 👍

[@lucin2586]

Yes we def need more HVAC people

[@emilee3151]

THIS

[@lasmyth9656]

Teach overseas (SEA) would be my choice.

[@lupavo1738]

Well advocate for the trades to pay more per hour starting out, knowing that most people are coming from college with debt. A college graduate can't live on a 12-14 dollar an hour wage with 10's of thousands of student loan debt. The trades are just not attracting talent due to their low wages. Plus, there's many career choices for you with an English degree, you just need to do your research and see what path fits you best. I wouldn't call it a pointless degree comparable to actual pointless degree like A.A. studies or basket weaving.

[@joshd5411]

Plumbing has had a big positive impact on my family's life. Doesn't feel like work when you love what you do. I genuinely enjoy being a plumber and solving problems . He's right our environment is plumbing all the time to others could be end of the world. Respect on you an to all my blue collar brother and sisters . Keep on killing it !

[@user-nh4tm6hh4j]

I worked commercial construction for 30 years. Plumbers, electricians and pipe fitters always made bank. It's the finish trade guys that had to really work it to make good money. Floor installers, Drywall finishers and painters usually do best working for themselves. I know a guy that is a diesel mechanic for a medium size city that makes 80K plus fantastic benefits. Also working in the trades you get a chance to stay in great shape. Your up and moving all day. I remember working with this one pipe fitter that was built like a body builder. He didn't work out at all. It all came from just going to work. Most of the guys will move up to management as they got older so the physical part get easier. I remember running into some of the guys I went to high school with in my thirties. These guys went on to college and got desk jobs. They were fat slobs that couldn't run across a parking lot. In my thirties the local red cross was having a 10K fundraiser. I ran it to help raise a little money. After the race one of my sponsors ask how long I had been running. I said I didn't run at all I just came out for the run today. They were shocked.

[@blazinjaye45]

Welding ?

[@VarsVerum]

How ironic that we've come full circle. Before, everyone was working trades but the white collar jobs were the dream/high demand. Now, everyone working white collar and the trades are the dream/high demand because they're so rare these days.

[@sandwicheman9772]

Funny part even then they were making good money it's just a physical tiring job so no matter what these jobs will make you a living when everyone wants to or not

[@Lifeafter40]

Welders in CA can go up to 150K or higher with time with a 9 month Welders program. No student loans. Construction can be 100K-250K per year if you are sub working for yourself. Many Construction workers own multiple small houses in underserved areas and keep them as rentals. No loans as they don't have to keep up with the Joneses. You'd be surprised how many in the trades are more financially independent than doctors or lawyers. Ask those in banking, finance and accounting.

[@henri6595]

Trade people can make bank if you are tough enough. I know of two Sparkys who make over 250K a year.

[@tonaaaaay]

Story of a genuine family man. Very nice episode, he seems like a really good guy.

[@shatil81]

Plumbing business owner here. Best part about this trade is it'll never be outsourced, and it'll ALWAYS be needed. Great trade if you put your all into it.

[@mikewazowski350]

How interesting the KZbin knew I changed out a water heater yesterday, then today I have this video in my suggestion list. The plumber I called wanted $1400 for the job. It cost me $400 for the heater and some materials bringing my total to $445. It took me about three hours to complete. If I figure they could have done it in two hours, that would mean they made $500 an hour (roughly).

[@icallyoucoolisme]

You could not hate this guy even if you tried. He’s so humble and chill.

[@RaptureHead1993]

I would be too if i made six figures….

[@devinj3705]

I hope he starts his own business he’d make a lot more and be less on call

[@Dud-in9iu]

Not necessarily. As an employee, he needs technical skills. As a business owner he would need an entirely different skill set (ie: marketing, sales, customer service, negotiating, accounting, etc.) which he may not have. I've seen people who were successful as a technician fail as a manager in a company and small business owner. Results could be life changing if he failed as a business owner.

[@christopherwilcox9654]

Most businesses fail. It’s not as easy as It may sound.

[@ominous450]

he'd be competing against his employer The Blue Frog. Once he does there's no turning back. Doubt his boss would take him back if his business failed

[@Mtnbike121]

@Thomas Hellberg nope, the owners still need to repair properties to so they can rent them to new tenants.

[@robertbasile4608]

@@Dud-in9iu worth a shot, you can always go back to the company, people told me the same thing and now i average 1000 a day

[@djetton1]

Hope you enjoyed your Father's Day my brother. My favorite thing was seeing the joy on your kids' faces, and your wife feeling loved and cherished. Praying her surgery goes well and God bless.

[@amandrachancho5123]

He didn’t get home until 9 at night and didn’t eat all day, he makes lots of money but no food and sleep :(

[@shoeflytoo]

Yeah, I noticed they really downplayed that part of it.

[@coolethan2772]

because texas is a 'right to work' state, that's why he doesn't know when his shift ends on any given day and mentions how he can't make any plans outside of work.

[@drewcastro7592]

Well at least it’s a better pay than the military in which it’s hella hours in the field when in training.

[@youtubevaccine2044]

He’s more than likely in pain too . Knees , joints , back etc.

[@garrisonbrown1170]

@@shoeflytoo “$105K a year” makes for a better video title

[@salmott]

What a good, honest, young man.

[@NursesToRiches]

He's got such a good head on his shoulders and, dang, he's freaking killing it with that income in Texas.

[@Jordanandcathy]

Good to hear from you after all these years, glad to see your doing good in life!

[@johnalmaraz2852]

This is great man! Congratulations! South Texas getting the love is amazing! We will soon be if not already the highest rated roofing company in Texas! Glad to see Raza making it!

[@wakeup3581]

First I must say he is so darn adorable! 🥰 But more than anything I’m always happy to see people enjoy what they do for a living. Good luck to him and his beautiful family!!

[@underSTATEDexcellence]

Fellow San Antonio plumber here, proud to see a channel acknowledging how important trades are. I'm 40 years old and have my Masters License and I couldn't be happier with the place I am at. After years of hard work I have a excellent position with the University of Incarnate Word. If people don't start valuing our nations vital infrastructure systems and the people that it takes to develop, construct, and repair those systems then people can count on paying more and waiting longer for someone that can perform those tasks.

[@ColdSprite]

Is 24 and hour good out there ?

[@erino.6432]

Been working as an apprentice plumber for many years with my father, very cool and interesting job. If u like to critically think and put things together, this is the job for u. I’ve been waiting for a plumbing video to come out.

[@CarloscarTovar]

This is a clear example that hard work pays off. Congratulations and keep it up!

[@toonses4300]

I swear this is filmed like an infomercial.

[@aliali-ce3yf]

tbh, most of these are like infomercials , especially the ones with youtubers or people selling some side hustle

[@crosscounty24]

Yep but still trade skills rock lol

[@cryptsolo]

Plumbers are never this happy to go to work first off. Second you don't even need a license to work in Texas why is he working under someone for hourly? Third he's way to fit to be a plumber every single plumber I work with is obese including my stepfather who's a licensed plumber.

[@cryptsolo]

One thing I do believe about is him being recruited by family. Most plumbing companies are just family and friends.

[@briannaranjo2545]

they REALLY need plumbers nationwide. I almost did it.

[@brett2396]

I did basically the same thing. I finished high school and tried to go to community college but couldn't afford it. Starting working for a plumbing company and they put me through the apprenticeship. 5 years later and I'm a journeyman with no student debt and making $100k+ a year with 401k and health insurance. People really should consider the trades, even women. I've seen a lot of women in the electrical field specifically.

[@kendellcooper6061]

I have two questions first are you union? Second are u a plumber or electrician or etc…

[@brett2396]

@@kendellcooper6061 non union, plumbing/hvac

[@-valkyrie-00]

>even women. and get harassed by random dudes no thanks. rather start my own business

[@joshskoflic8391]

@@-valkyrie-00 u can’t just start ur own business without knowing anything😂 u gotta put in the work like everyone else. Women do not get harassed in construction. They are definitely looked down upon and don’t learn nearly as much for obvious reasons but they can still handle the business side of the trades. For the most part they do pretty good with the books.

[@-valkyrie-00]

@@joshskoflic8391 that's why I'm going to school to start my own

[@michelemurphy3541]

Love This!!! You made a series of very very good choices and your attitude about your family is, GOALS! Keep On Keeping On!

[@helendupont9880]

Representing San Antonio! Thank you for all you and bluefrog do for us!!!❤️❤️

[@wtylawson23]

This dudes is awesome! I start my apprenticeship next Friday! I cannot wait to start finally providing for my new family without living paycheck by paycheck anymore!

[@TheSuperNick1134]

I just finished my first year of my apprenticeship. Best decision I ever made, and I went to college.

[@johnpattenude5450]

How is it going?! I'm considering plumbing!

[@quintano20]

I knew this guy, he fixed my plumbing issue when I tried to fix it by myself. Really nice guy

[@danieliglesias1314]

Love to all my Trade ppl💪🏻 keep grinding ! Respect from a 21 year old electrician

[@AlexRamirez-lf1wj]

One thing about bigg plumbing companies is that they train plumbers to sell the job. When its not needed

[@a012345]

Plumbers deserve every single dollar they make and more. I can't think of a profession that affect's people lives more positively than this.

[@sergios.2276]

Trade jobs are so rewarding on so many levels and I hate that they get overlooked.... I've seen ppl with true skill use all of their potential in their trade and its just awesome.... this is what society needs to start pushing because we need more ppl like him

[@eckankar7756]

His kids look just like him, what a sweet man, I'm so happy this path unfolded before him when he needed some direction.

[@BluStarGalaxy]

This is an exception. Looked it up. Plumbers make an average of 45K to 56K in San Antonio.

[@yougrant1980]

My father was a plumber and work for himself for years. He made a lot of money and only worked 4 days a week for only a few hours days a day. Anyone deciding to go to trade school should never ever make anyone make you feel you made a bad decision.

[@lampali]

Plumbing is extremely important and much appreciated work. Believe me, I’ve seen disasters when plumbing fail. This guy is smart!

[@paolabueso]

Awesome video! I’m super happy for him. It sounds like he enjoys what he is doing and is getting paid well for it too. Thank you so much for sharing this!

[@user-yy2zk1ni8t]

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[@user-yy2zk1ni8t]

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[@brimmed]

Curious how much of the $105k comes from the overtime and other various sales he got from the Texas power outages. Most the electricians i know make most their money from racking up overtime

[@jgg204]

when you work for the large plumbing companies like this guy does, you make a sales commission selling people water waters / tankless water heaters / water softeners, etc. and some places give you a commission on every job you go to, PLUS the hourly wage.

[@dianadundidit5343]

That's exactly how he got that salary

[@eckankar7756]

Make it while you can and young with the stamina to do over time. I hope he's investing so he can back down as he gets older. Work like the devil is after you till you're 40 or so, then kick back some.

[@bigwayne03]

Dropped out and makin 105k a year that’s crazy🔥🔥

[@cocomarineblu993]

Way to go my man proud of your hard work!

[@Mokarney]

Hats off to you Richard. This is what a hard-working man that enjoys his job looks like.

[@dane2322]

Seems like a good dude. Good for him man. Get that money

[@kingmcnack4595]

Dope!! I have a janitorial business and make really good money as well. Dope video!!

[@shiblee0670]

what a wonderful human being is . Impressed . doing a job that he loves and then he has a good family . what can you ask more from life ?

[@Andre-Nader]

NEISD representing! Great work taking the opportunities and rolling with the changes life threw at you.

[@heslind]

I’m 17 years deep in the corporate world and if I could do it all over again I would be a plumber.

[@donovanasmr9546]

It's never too late to start over again. Could I ask why you feel that way? I recently graduated college and am trying to get into business, but reading something like this is making me re-consider and do a trade instead.

[@jdawg3629]

The soul sucking corporate world is like a vampire. It'll drain the joy out of you. Trades make you feel good and keep you mentally and physically strong usually. All my corporate buddies are soft, outta shape and don't seem happy. Not saying that's everyone, just what I see and I've experienced. It sucks being a disposable cog in the corporate machine.

[@mister0sir]

@@jdawg3629 but don't trades jobs wear you down physically. Theres trades people in the comments saying, it takes a toll on the body and you need to do own a trades business or do management when you get older.

[@hectormejia5090]

@@mister0sir it does take a toll on your body. Their knees and back with be shot by the time they're 40. They might not say or even realize it. But the damage is done by then

[@jdawg3629]

@@mister0sir I mean, depends on what trade and how well you maintain yourself, like anything. Does a computer job make u overweight, have bad posture and high blood pressure? Depends...

[@gold9ja]

I don’t look down on people who do trade jobs or blue collard jobs, much respect to Rich( the man featured in the video) but I think in the end of the day it depends on what job sector you want to work in. If you are leaning towards healthcare, Law or tech sector you most likely need a degree but if you are leaning towards a job sector like entertainment, plumbing, fashion world and etc then you don’t need a college degree.

[@jeanp.5929]

It's a big issue because some of the youth that are fresh out of high school don't know exactly what careers they want to go into but schools keep pushing them to go to college. Maybe in the past when college was more affordable that wasn't too bad of an option but when schools are costing $30k+/ year, that's not so smart.

[@gold9ja]

@@jeanp.5929 True, I understand, kids from high school that dont need to go to college shouldn’t.

[@skoko_K]

Tech Sector definetely does not need college !!! Trust me it's so easy to get hired , so many websites that allow you to give tests for free and you get insta hired if you succeed !!!!

[@tiffanyhwang1738]

This is a nice new series.... Keep it up!

[@TheDanaYiShow]

Awesome path he carved for himself, great video!

[@roflcopter4388]

Jobs in the trades are less likely to be automated away. It's one of the most honest ways to make a living and I wish it was not as stigmatized.

[@jreamscape]

Only in America it’s frowned on

[@mehdihatami3391]

@@jreamscape Canada too. There is massive shortage of skilled trades workers in Ontario where I live because nobody wants to do them

[@libinolo1714]

norway too, and everywhere else in the world as well.

[@julianrodriguez5321]

it only pays well because it is stigmatized. Aint nobody wanna work on shiiieet pipes

[@youngartist7101]

Ok this learning plumbing

[@r4ym1n13]

Great job Richard ! Going to a trade school to enter the HVAC field was one of the best decisions I ever made. Now I'm a welder for a defense corporation.

[@jeffpih]

Love it. Great work Richard.

[@angellanderos408]

I’m a master plumber here in san antonio tx , congratulations man ! also when u wear out of running on call and weekends give me a holler! we don’t do on call or work weekends, we’re the new gen of plumbers lol ! seriously

[@Compaz242]

Hello lander is, happy valentines

[@estevanmendoza4575]

I graduated with an associate degree in engineering at a community college then next task was to work on my bachelors of electrical engineering . I went to a University that cost $1k for 1 class and my part time job were cutting hours. I try to get to an entry job but I got rejected allot which I decided to drop out and work as an electrician apprentice. Rn I’m heading to 2nd year, I enjoy waking up in the morning and put in the work/hours. My life is great 👍

[@gilliancarnes5279]

This man is an inspiration! You are killing it, man! You and your family deserve all good things!

[@charletfoster8917]

The trades shouldn’t not be overlooked, his experience is really encouraging 🙏🏿 for sharing

[@leighgirl123]

What a beautiful family. Good on him for being able to provide a nice lifestyle for his wife and kids.

[@RealBuddhaR2G]

Love his story , keep grinding and providing for your family and community bro 💪🏽

[@stevenmerrill4243]

Nice you should show even more tradesmen and union type jobs, so that people know there are more options than college.

[@FINSuojeluskunta]

Unions are KEY to making money in the trades

[@jalamela1480]

Been a trucker for 8 solid years i was 22 when I got my cdl first year I made 50k and the following years I’ve mage 80-120k a year. I’m a college drop out and don’t regret one bit. My friends are stuck with 40-120k in debt and some of them have worthless degrees like gender studies, African studies, Mexican American studies, liberal arts etc. I do have some friends that became architects and another an oil engineer and they make around 100k. I got a house fully paid for in Southern California and got my friends with debt renting rooms here. I make 2k cash just from renting 3 rooms to them.

[@johnpattenude5450]

@@jalamela1480 Man I'm glad I clicked on this video ! Very inspiring story! I've definitely felt like college has always been pushed at home, still is. Sometimes I worry if I'd be a good tradesman. Im currently thinking about plumbing as of right now. Lots of opportunities out there for it.

[@jalamela1480]

@@johnpattenude5450 you will obviously start from the bottom, but the more u learn the more you’ll make. You will not always make Minimum wage learning a trade. Ever thought about trucking? I mean it sounds boring, but it has given me a very good living. You can move anywhere in the country and you will NEVER be out of work. We are also a recession proof job. We move America. I get paid every Friday and I just saw my pay stub today I’m taking home $1976.84 after taxes for 5 days work. You can eventually get your own semi truck 🚛 if u want and make more working for yourself, but that’s every industry.

[@johnpattenude5450]

@@jalamela1480 Hey! Thank you for the recommendation! I finally found a way into the plumbing Industry and a hookup for tools! I'll have to keep you updated and let you know if I switch around. I think trucking is a great alternative. How was the health care benefits? I need some really good insurance due to having 4 open heart surgeries 💯😂.

[@WaffersCappuccinoFl]

Finally a good episode. That's a hard working dude.

[@aldralee]

What a solid dude. Great example for other young people, especially his kids!

[@jae6106]

Watching this gave me so much more confidence. I just graduated high school last month and I’m looking forward to starting my plumbing career in the Austin area. One more thing 105k-125k in the SA area is like king living I promise u , especially if u making that by yourself.

[@JakeWeihe]

Great story. He also has great taste in tools. Milwaukee for the win!

[@Ducky_logan]

Wow! I never knew how much sacrifice that comes with this job. Much respect.

[@alexresendiz9201]

Great to see trades being featured on here! This guy is killin it! 👏👏👏 Would like to see an Automotive Technician being featured on here!

[@justicejoycetv]

Help me understand *why the need to compare and make comments about (1) college degrees versus the trades, (2) who's doing better and (3) making it out to be a competitive vicious thing versus saluting anyone that's accomplishing what they want? Who's being snobby about a job? Please teach me!*

[@Manny-ok7fv]

The millennial generation chose to forgo college for learning a skilled trade. As a result the demand is much higher than the supply can be met. I have an MBA and left corporate America to start my own glass installing business.

[@ademar_ofthewest]

@Manuel May I ask how you got started? I’m in a similar boat and would like to branch out into a trade but am unsure of how to acquire those skills. I’m pretty green and would need a patient mentor (currently no connections). I’m willing to work, tho, because I don’t want to find myself in corporate again.

[@Manny-ok7fv]

@@ademar_ofthewest Worked 12 years as a glazier under my dad since I was 16. Hated it, went to school, got out, did banking, hated it. Joined the military, got out, got a free MBA left everything and went into business for myself as a glazier.

[@shoeflytoo]

@@ademar_ofthewest Couple of suggestions for you. 1. Pick what trade you're curious about and go visit a non-union contractor. You may get a job or you might just make a contact. If you aren't satisfied with the result, go to another contractor. 2. Go to the union hall of the trade you're curious about and ask for the apprenticeship program. You might get some answers there. You are far more likely to get direct results visiting (or calling) non-union shops because they are more likely to make a decision right then. The union will probably be far more bureaucratic and have many more hoops to jump through before you make any noticeable headway.

[@henri6595]

@@Manny-ok7fv Very interesting journey you had! Good to see other people hate the Corporate world!

[@nehemiahstewart]

Awesome story. Bless you brother

[@justina4914]

Great guy! Need more like this

[@irayan-hun]

I'd like to learn this type of job but never had a chance to.

[@justintrades7851]

worst thing about trades is longer hours, not seeing family, stuck in traffic no breaks exhausted

[@tysolomano5754]

Agreed. Nobody will say this, they only look at $$$. My buddy is a welder, makes 6 figs, but works 25-40 hrs OT a week with 4 kids. Not worth it

[@conductingintomfoolery9163]

With a trade you can have a family if you are smart financially

[@Buckdodgers]

I like this guy. He's got a great attitude. Good to see Young Men doing well in life like this.

[@fitter5423]

Good for this guy. Fortunately I got my degree for free because of football and chased the dream after college to play professionally. Made it to Canada and the arena league and an nfl tryout but never got there. I’ve worked construction for my dad and my uncle my whole life so I got into the fire protection and the rest is history. One of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Made over 100k every year since I finished my 5 year apprenticeship on a service van and I truly love the work. Getting dirty and something different everyday.

[@krisb-travel]

weird, im a similar age and in the UK it was the exact same situation.... ''the dumb'' kids were encouraged to the trades while the rest would get ''proper jobs''.... now im in my 30's and hugely jelous of all my buddies in the trades.... they get paid more than everyone and they dont dred going to work like the office folk do

[@cocomarineblu993]

As a young female who was interested in the trades in 2013-14 I quickly realized I wouldn’t be able to work hard labor, not eating a lot, etc if I wanted to have kids. Fast forward now I’m 27, and I’ve had 2 kids and my pregnancies made me so sick I would’ve lost my job or income all together. If you are breastfeeding you can’t be away from your children this much and your body can’t go without food. Now I have an issue with a knee and can’t stand on my feet all day. I use to work in a car shop. I’m so glad I didn’t choose this trade/ or others. Girls need to think about the reality of this if they want to have a family or a physically intensive job. It’s possible but very hard and sometimes not worth it.

[@joshskoflic8391]

Even some guys can’t handle it. Then again not many people can lift a 200lb pipe onto their shoulder climb a 12 foot ladder and hang it on the roof.

[@oudenx6345]

This gives me a lot of confidence since I’m currently an apprentice. I can’t wait to get my license!

[@Sterbann]

How are you doing man

[@oudenx6345]

@@Sterbann been out on the road for 3 mo the now. Just closed on a personal best 20k revenue week! I’m doing amazing!

[@gabrielarazo7769]

Blessings to you and your family!!!!!!