NECEC provides classroom-based education for plumbing, fuel gas, and construction professionals in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Below is an overview of our program structure and school policies.
Massachusetts Tier Programs
The Massachusetts plumbing and fuel gas tier program is a sequential series of five classroom courses. Each tier builds on the previous one and must be completed in order.
- Tiers 1 through 5— 110 classroom hours per tier
- In-person instruction at 149 Congress Street, Lowell, MA
- Students must complete Tier 1 before enrolling in Tier 2, and so on through Tier 5
- A minimum grade of 70% is required to advance to the next tier
- Three unexcused absences result in dismissal from the current tier
- Students who do not pass a tier must re-enroll and retake it at their own expense
For current tier requirements and enrollment prerequisites, contact NECEC directly or download the student handbook below.
Massachusetts Continuing Education
NECEC offers continuing education courses for plumbing and fuel gas professionals in Massachusetts. These courses support license renewal compliance as required by the Board of State Examiners. Contact us for the current CE schedule and requirements.
New Hampshire Continuing Education
Mechanical continuing education courses are available for New Hampshire plumbing and gas professionals. Sessions cover current code updates and compliance topics. Contact us for scheduling and availability.
CSL Prep (Construction Supervisor License)
The CSL prep course is a 15-hour classroom program designed to prepare students for the unrestricted Construction Supervisor License exam in Massachusetts. A complete book package is included with enrollment.
Backflow Prevention Certification
Offered in partnership with the New England Water Works Association (NEWWA), this program covers backflow device testing and inspection. Two tracks are available:
- Complete Technician Package— approximately 40 hours of classroom and field instruction, including certification testing
- Certification Only— approximately 32 hours, for students who need the certification exam without the full instructional component
General School Policies
- All courses are held in person. Hybrid delivery is available when the instructor is traveling and a session listing indicates hybrid format.
- Books and materials are included where applicable. Check individual course listings for details.
- Payment is required at the time of enrollment.
- School hours are Monday through Thursday, 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
- NECEC follows Lowell Public Schools for weather-related closures and cancellations.
- Refund and withdrawal policies are governed by 230 CMR 15.04(7)-(8). See the student handbook for full details.
- Complaints receive a written response within 10 business days. Students may also contact the Massachusetts Department of Labor at occupational.schools@mass.gov or (617) 701-8719.