Clint

Hello all,

I am not currently in the electrical field, so hopefully I won't upset anyone by posting on this pro's site...

I am currently considering becoming an electricians apprentice. I am 26 and since I graduated college in '04 I have been quasi self employed doing assorted carpentry (remodeling, flooring, trim, etc) jobs as well as building some kitchen cabinets for some folks.

However, I wish to focus on one area, and I feel like electrical work would be a good fit for me. I enjoy working with my hands and solving problems, as well as learning something new every day. I read on someone's post on this site something about how electrical work is like getting paid to put together lego's. I like the thought of that.

I don't have any training in electrical, unless you count some wiring projects around my house that my dad helped on. So I guess my question is, does it sound like electrical work would be a good fit for me? I know its hard to say since you don't know me, but I think that I would be happy doing that type of work.

Also, what would be the best way to go about pursuing an apprenticeship? One of my friends dad is a higher up at a local company, and I plan on discussing the subject with him, so he should be of some help (at least a good reference.) About apprenticeships, how does it work? Do you need experience as a helper, or can you start right into the apprenticeship?

Thanks in advance for any comments!

Kletis

What state are you located in Clint? There are different rules in different states...

__________________
Kletis...

BryanMD

Hello Clint and welcome to the site.

No, you don't have to be in an apprenticeship program to get a job.

You didn't say what part of the country you are in (change that btw in your profile) but there is probably some homebuilding going on there and spring is coming on fast.

Ask around (previous framers etc) for what EC's are doing that work in your area and get hired by one of them. See if you actually like it and ideally the company will have an apprentice program you can get into for next fall.

If you find that you actually do like the work (your previous construction experience and age are big things in your favor) and that you 'get it' and your employer *doesn't* do the apprentice school thing start looking for a new boss sometime in July who does offer it or look for an IBEW local.

I don't know you from Adam but if I wouldn't hesitate giving you a shot.

__________________
March 2010: On the road with my RV. California is first primary destination then it is off to Eastern OR, Northern ID and Western MT for drycamping and fly fishing until Labor Day.

tpr

your best bet for the money way out there in asheville,nc is the ibew. for training and benefits and they pay way more than the local shops out there.Local 238 Asheville

• POB 1117
• Enka, North Carolina 28728
• Tel: (828) 665-4239
• Fax: (828) 665-6718
• email

Clint

Thanks for the replies,

I am located in Asheville, NC. There is a fair amount of building going on around my area, so that shouldn't be an issue.

You mentioned trying to get to into an apprenticeship for the fall... do they only start in the fall of the year? I could see the unions having a set schedule for apprenticeships, but it seems like non union positions could start whenever, but I don't really know. If I remember correctly, there is an IBEW in the Asheville area.

So, to clarify, are you suggesting that I get on as a helper somewhere for now, and then try locate somewhere to be an apprentice by mid-summer (if I find the work suitable, of course)?

Another question, regarding the classroom portion of an apprenticeship... For a union position, you take the classes at the union building... for a non union position, you would take them at vocational school/community college. Is this correct?

I would like to pursue this relatively soon, but I do have some obligations to tie up from my business (complete some cabinets I am working on, etc.), and I am not entirely sure how much longer it will take. Should I try to a company now, and tell them I am interested but couldn't start for a while, or should I wait, and go talk to them when I know a date on which I could start?

Thanks again guys.

BryanMD

I am located in Asheville, NC. There is a fair amount of building going on around my area, so that shouldn't be an issue.

Nice town. That area is on my short list of places to relocate.


You mentioned trying to get to into an apprenticeship for the fall... do they only start in the fall of the year?

Call THEM and ask?


So, to clarify, are you suggesting that I get on as a helper somewhere for now, and then try locate somewhere to be an apprentice by mid-summer (if I find the work suitable, of course)?

Yes. My point was about getting some actual experience in the WORK asap to see how you do in it. But if an IBEW program is open before then do it.


Another question, regarding the classroom portion of an apprenticeship... For a union position, you take the classes at the union building... for a non union position, you would take them at vocational school/community college. Is this correct?

Generally. But ask THEM to be certain and also about testing etc too.


I would like to pursue this relatively soon, but I do have some obligations to tie up from my business (complete some cabinets I am working on, etc.), and I am not entirely sure how much longer it will take.

Do what you have to.


Should I try to a company now, and tell them I am interested but couldn't start for a while, or should I wait, and go talk to them when I know a date on which I could start?

Yes. Start asking NOW. Most won't be ready to hire new guys until thaw anyway and demonstrating responsibility to your obligations will only help you in the eyes of an employer.

Good luck

__________________
March 2010: On the road with my RV. California is first primary destination then it is off to Eastern OR, Northern ID and Western MT for drycamping and fly fishing until Labor Day.

Clint

Thank you for the thorough response BryanMD. A couple more questions if you don't mind...

I believe that I read somewhere that union apprenticeships are 5 years, whereas non-union apprenticeships are 4 years... is this correct?

Also, what would be a reasonable hourly wage to expect for a helper or first year apprentice? I know I will be taking a pay cut from what I am doing now, but I see it as an investment in my future (Good wage, steady work). However, I am curious as to how big of a pay cut it will be be.

Is it generally a 40 hour week, or can you work more? Does the overseer of the apprenticeship generally frown upon doing side work on the weekends (not electrical work)? I suppose it might depend on employer to employer, or union to non-union.

Thanks again.

BryanMD

I believe that I read somewhere that union apprenticeships are 5 years, whereas non-union apprenticeships are 4 years... is this correct?

It will vary some by state. The key is what NC requires for you to qualify to sit for the Journeymans test(s) and NOT what the union says (which is more about pay scales than licensing).

But we're getting the cart well before the horse now.


Also, what would be a reasonable hourly wage to expect for a helper or first year apprentice? I know I will be taking a pay cut from what I am doing now, but I see it as an investment in my future (Good wage, steady work). However, I am curious as to how big of a pay cut it will be be.

As an almost green recruit no one will hire you for very much. ($10-12?)
But most EC's will bump that quickly if you demonstrate you are worth more.

Whatever you are getting paid (for the first 3 months) isn't the point though; the point is getting paid at all to learn the basics of a good trade.
(as opposed to some goofs who pay tech school tuition to learn less)


Is it generally a 40 hour week, or can you work more?

They'll load you with hours if you do good work (and if they have the jobs).


Does the overseer of the apprenticeship generally frown upon doing side work on the weekends (not electrical work)?

If it won't interfere with your ability to work the hours he offers.


I suppose it might depend on employer to employer, or union to non-union.

Yes.

__________________
March 2010: On the road with my RV. California is first primary destination then it is off to Eastern OR, Northern ID and Western MT for drycamping and fly fishing until Labor Day.

Clint

Thanks for the response. I will try to get together with my buddy's father soon to discuss these issues.

Elec Tek

I work out of Lake Norman areA if you are interested in applying. i am a non union company of one.

Clint

I appreciate the offer. However, I'm not really looking to relocate. I do go fishing down that way every once in a while. Thanks again.