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21K Career Guide

Army

21K: Plumbing Supervisor

Career transition guide for Army Plumbing Supervisor (21K)

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Civilian Career Pathways

Top civilian roles for 21K veterans, with average salary and market demand data.

Plumber

$65K
High matchHigh demand

Skills to develop:

State plumbing licenseKnowledge of local plumbing codes

Pipefitter

$62K
High matchHigh demand

Skills to develop:

Welding certificationsBlueprint reading

Construction Supervisor

$85K
Good matchGrowing demand

Skills to develop:

Project management certification (e.g., PMP)OSHA safety certifications

Civil Engineering Technician

$60K
Moderate matchStable demand

Skills to develop:

AutoCAD or similar CAD software proficiencyAssociate's degree in civil engineering technology

Maintenance Supervisor

$70K
Good matchHigh demand

Skills to develop:

HVAC certificationElectrical systems knowledge

Salary estimates from VWC career data

Hidden Strengths

Cognitive skills your 21K training built — and where they transfer.

System Modeling

As a 21K, you understand how different plumbing and pipeline components interact within larger systems. You can visualize how changes in one area affect others, which is vital for efficient repairs and installations.

This skill translates to the ability to understand and predict the behavior of complex systems, troubleshoot issues, and optimize performance in various civilian settings.

Resource Optimization

You're adept at estimating materials, time, equipment, and labor for construction and repair projects. This includes making the most of available resources while adhering to budget constraints and project timelines.

This means you excel at efficiently managing resources, minimizing waste, and maximizing productivity – crucial for success in project management and operations roles.

Procedural Compliance

Your role requires strict adherence to safety procedures, construction drawings, and specifications. You ensure that all work meets quality standards and regulatory requirements.

You have a strong understanding of regulations, standards, and protocols, making you highly reliable in industries where compliance is critical for safety and operational efficiency.

Team Synchronization

You supervise teams in construction and repair activities, coordinating their efforts to ensure timely and effective project completion. This includes clear communication and delegation of tasks.

This translates to your capacity to lead and coordinate teams, ensuring everyone works together seamlessly towards a common goal. You excel in collaborative environments where clear communication and shared understanding are key.

Situational Awareness

As a General Engineering Supervisor, you're constantly aware of your surroundings, project progress, and potential hazards, enabling you to anticipate problems and make informed decisions in dynamic environments.

You have a keen ability to assess situations quickly, identify risks, and make proactive decisions, making you valuable in roles that require quick thinking and adaptability.

Non-Obvious Career Matches

Cost Estimator

SOC 13-1051

You've been estimating materials, time, equipment, and labor for military construction projects. As a Cost Estimator, you'll apply these skills to determine the costs associated with civilian construction projects.

Compliance Officer

SOC 13-1041

You've been ensuring compliance with safety procedures, construction drawings, and specifications. In this role, you will ensure organizations follow regulatory requirements and internal policies.

Logistics Analyst

SOC 13-2081

You've been managing resources and coordinating teams to complete construction projects. Your skills translate directly into analyzing supply chain operations, managing inventory, and optimizing logistics processes.

Facilities Manager

SOC 11-3010

You've supervised construction, repair, and maintenance activities in the military. You will leverage this experience to oversee the operation, maintenance, and repair of buildings and facilities.

Training & Education Equivalencies

Engineer Basic Officer Leader Course (EBOLC) and Advanced Individual Training (AIT), Fort Leonard Wood, MO

320 training hours8 weeksUp to 6 semester hours in construction technology

Topics Covered

  • Pipefitting Techniques
  • Plumbing Systems Installation and Repair
  • Blueprint Reading and Interpretation
  • Water Distribution Systems
  • Waste Water Systems
  • Plumbing Codes and Standards
  • Safety Procedures in Plumbing
  • Supervisory and Management Principles

Certification Pathways

Partial Coverage

Certified Plumber70% covered

Local plumbing codes, advanced techniques for specific materials (e.g., PEX, CPVC), and relevant business practices.

OSHA 30-Hour Construction60% covered

Specific OSHA regulations, record-keeping, and site-specific hazard analysis.

Project Management Professional (PMP)40% covered

Formal project management methodologies (PMBOK), stakeholder management, risk management, and advanced scheduling techniques.

Recommended Next Certifications

Construction Management Certification (e.g., CCM)Certified Professional Constructor (CPC)LEED AP (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional)Certified Safety Professional (CSP)

Technical Systems Translation

Military systems you've used and their civilian equivalents for your resume.

Military SystemCivilian Equivalent
Advanced Field Artillery Tactical Data System (AFATDS)Construction project management software (e.g., Procore, Oracle Primavera)
All Army Facilities Management System (AA-FMS)Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS)
Geographic Information System (GIS)ESRI ArcGIS, QGIS
Tactical Water Purification System (TWPS)Industrial water filtration and purification systems
Forward Area Water Point Supply System (FAWPSS)Mobile water treatment and distribution systems
Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck (HEMTT)Commercial Heavy-Duty Trucks (e.g., Kenworth, Peterbilt)

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