In Part 2 of this special American Plumber Stories series, we return to Soledad State Prison in CA, where real transformation is taking place—one pipe, one lesson, one life at a time.

We meet Fabian, Alex, and Marcos—three incarcerated men who found purpose, direction, and a renewed sense of self through the prison’s plumbing vocational program. Their stories are powerful testaments to the impact of skilled trades, not only as a path to employment, but as a means of building confidence, leadership, and a life worth living.

For Alex, plumbing became a way to rebuild his identity. Fabian now mentors others in the class, paying forward the lessons that changed his life. Marcos, once reluctant to join, now helps teach fellow inmates—many of whom never believed they had a skill to offer.

With guidance from instructor Jorge Arias and encouragement from Larry Jones, their stories show us that change is possible—when people are given the tools, trust, and opportunity to build something better.

“There’s hope in your hands.” - Larry Jones

This isn’t just a trade. It’s a lifeline.


----------

Over half of America’s skilled trade employees are nearing retirement age. When it comes to plumbing, there are fewer men and women entering the workforce. Our country is in dire need of the next generation of plumbers. Being a plumber isn't just a good job, it's a great career.

American Plumber Stories, presented by Pfister® Faucets, features plumbers across the nation, sharing the passion they have for their profession. Learn how they got started, their advice for future plumbers, and the rewards that come with the trade.

https://www.americanplumberstories.com/

In this powerful special episode of American Plumber Stories, Larry Jones—founder of Universal Plumbing and a respected leader in the trade—travels from Augusta, GA, to Soledad State Prison in CA to speak directly to inmates in the prison’s vocational program.

Larry’s story is one of overcoming poverty, racial barriers, and seemingly dead-end circumstances to build the largest plumbing company in Augusta. Raised in a poor neighborhood, with parents who had only elementary school educations, Larry knows what it means to overcome the odds. Today, he owns a successful plumbing business, mentors young tradespeople, and lives a life shaped by grit, positivity, and purpose.

In his message to the inmates, Larry shares a simple truth: “When you change your mind, you change your life.” His words resonate deeply with the apprentices—many of whom are finding renewed purpose and pride through the trades.

The program, featured in the Season 5 finale, equips incarcerated men with real-world plumbing skills and a renewed sense of direction. With Larry’s encouragement, the message is clear: there’s dignity, purpose, and opportunity in the trades.


----------

Over half of America’s skilled trade employees are nearing retirement age. When it comes to plumbing, there are fewer men and women entering the workforce. Our country is in dire need of the next generation of plumbers. Being a plumber isn't just a good job, it's a great career.

American Plumber Stories, presented by Pfister® Faucets, features plumbers across the nation, sharing the passion they have for their profession. Learn how they got started, their advice for future plumbers, and the rewards that come with the trade.

https://www.americanplumberstories.com/

Plumbing isn’t just a career—it’s a calling. For Jorge Arias, it’s a legacy passed down from his father—and now, he’s passing that knowledge on to inmates at Soledad State Prison. By teaching the plumbing trade, he’s helping these men gain practical skills, build confidence, and discover a renewed sense of purpose.

Part 2 of the American Plumber Stories Season 5 Finale explores the power of mentorship, the value of hard work, and how the trades can shape new paths forward. Don’t miss this compelling story of grit, growth, and the true spirit of the American Dream.

Don’t miss the second episode in this powerful multi-part series.

----------

Over half of America’s skilled trade employees are nearing retirement age. When it comes to plumbing, there are fewer men and women entering the workforce. Our country is in dire need of the next generation of plumbers. Being a plumber isn't just a good job, it's a great career.

American Plumber Stories, presented by Pfister® Faucets, features plumbers across the nation, sharing the passion they have for their profession. Learn how they got started, their advice for future plumbers, and the rewards that come with the trade.

https://www.americanplumberstories.com/