Young Plumber Reaches Career Milestone Before College Age
Carmelo Castle has set a new standard for young tradespeople in Texas. At just 18, he became the first Black student in the state to complete a high school plumbing program and pass the state plumbing exam. This achievement means he can work professionally right after graduation.
Castle, a recent graduate of Woodville High School, completed the school’s four-year plumbing program in May. He is now employed with Local 68 Plumbing at a second-year tradesman level. His success is not only personal but also a win for the district’s career preparation efforts.
A Different Path from the Average Teen
Castle admits his journey required sacrifices that separated him from most high school students.
“The fact that I’m so young doing this stuff, I mean, you know, average teenagers are partying and stuff. See, I had to actually be the separate one of the group,” he said.
His smooth transition from school to the workforce came from hands-on training. “I was so used to it as soon as I went in, to where like it didn’t really affect me,” he explained.
Training That Builds Careers Early
The plumbing program at Woodville High School, led by instructor John Bunker, gives students real-world experience in a dedicated shop.
“This is our shop area right here. It’s a large shop, but we have this area right here primarily for my class, which is the plumbing class,” Bunker said.
Graduates who pass the tradesman exam leave with a professional license in hand, ready to start work. “For them to be able to go through a class such as this and then qualify right away… they have a license in their pocket,” Bunker added.
Meeting a Growing Demand for Skilled Plumbers
The Gulf Coast area faces a shortage of plumbers due to an aging workforce. The average licensed plumber is 43 years old, and apprentices average 37.
Bunker says young professionals like Castle are crucial to keeping the industry strong.
Castle hopes his success will encourage others to explore trades instead of following traditional college paths. “It gave me a chance to actually step up in life,” he said. “You can’t really follow the same crowd there all day, knowing that you’re not gonna get anywhere.”
Inspiring the Next Group of Students
The program’s influence is growing, with three more Woodville High students expected to sit for the state exam next year.
For Castle, his achievement proves that young people can secure solid careers early if they commit to the work. His story may be the spark others need to take that first step.
