“Embracing a path less traveled, a young plumber proves success comes in many forms.”
At just 26 years old, Zhong He finds himself knee-deep—sometimes literally—in a profession many young Singaporeans wouldn’t dream of pursuing. As a plumber, he routinely faces clogged pipes, messy kitchens, and even waist-deep sewage, all in a day’s work. Yet, despite the challenges, he embraces this blue-collar career with pride and purpose.
A Career Shaped by Family
Zhong He’s journey into plumbing began at age 14 when he started assisting his father, a plumber with nearly 40 years of experience. His school holidays were spent handing tools to his father during jobs, gaining an early understanding of the trade.
“My dad provided for the family as the sole breadwinner,” Zhong He shares. “I started young, picking up skills from him over the years.”
After completing his National Service, he decided against further studies and instead chose to build a career as a plumber. In 2020, he launched his freelance plumbing business, promoting his services on Instagram and Carousell.
Today, Zhong He earns between $5,000 and $6,000 monthly before expenses. Though not yet licensed to work on commercial projects, he services private residences across Singapore and takes pride in being able to support his family financially.
The Realities of Plumbing
For Zhong He, plumbing isn’t just about fixing pipes—it’s about navigating the unpredictable. “Clearing a clogged pipe often means getting covered in wastewater,” he admits.
Yet, the physical demands are just one aspect. Managing customer expectations, enduring long hours, and dealing with societal stigmas around blue-collar work add layers of complexity.
“Some clients have advised me to switch to a more comfortable office job,” he says. “But I enjoy working with my hands and don’t see myself in a corporate setting.”
A Shrinking Talent Pool
Singapore’s plumbing sector faces a growing labor shortage, with many licensed plumbers nearing retirement age. Efforts to attract younger talent, such as implementing the Progressive Wage Model, aim to address this issue. However, cultural biases favoring white-collar professions continue to deter many from entering the trade.
Zhong He is aware of this gap. “It’s a tough job, but it pays well. If you’re willing to work, you won’t go hungry,” he says. His social media savvy has also helped him secure a steady stream of clients, proving that adapting modern tools can make a difference in traditional trades.
Finding Fulfillment
Despite the challenges, Zhong He is optimistic about his future. He dreams of taking over his father’s business, expanding its reach, and managing a team of plumbers.
“When I fix a clogged pipe, it’s like solving a puzzle. There’s a sense of satisfaction in getting it right,” he explains. “To me, success means living comfortably and ensuring my dad can retire without worry.”
Zhong He’s story serves as a reminder that fulfillment doesn’t always come from conventional paths. In a society that often undervalues blue-collar work, he’s proving that success is not defined by job titles but by personal satisfaction and the ability to make a meaningful impact.
