Hey Donald! I started my electrical career a few months ago as an apprentice with no prior electrical experience. Ive been blessed with this opportunity because i love this company, they treat me like family, and the mechanics have been teaching me really well. Ive learned so much since i started and i can’t wait to learn more! I show up to work 30 mins early everyday, am always asking if i could help out around the shop and on jobs, and everyone’s told me i have an amazing work ethic. I haven’t gone to trade school yet but this up coming spring i might try to find night classes, so i’m able to get the field experience with this company, while getting the classroom experience with school. I’m really excited to pursue this career
My question is though, Should I spend the money and time on trade school even though i’m getting the field/hands on experience with this job. I work no less than 45 hours a week because we’re relatively busy, so i am getting a lot of experience through this job.
Absolutely, What you learn in trade school you will not learn on the job. You can apply what your taught but can not be taught on site. The income level difference over the course of a career is breathtaking. Take some night courses or online courses, you dont have to go to an expensive school, community college courses work fine.@@mikeycastillo2364
Hey Donald, I’ve been following you for 2 years now. I’m reflecting on how much I’ve grown as an electrician and I attribute a lot of that to my mindset, which you played a big role in. Just wanting to check in and thank you.
It’s a descent program, just be aware of the hooks that come along with the program. There are always requirements you must follow and be aware of them before you decide.
Tough question Depends on your personality Do you want to own your own business? I love working and im an entrepreneur. The union is great for certain people, great program
Hey, Donald, I have about 2 years of experience in the field, and I really want to get at a machinic level as fast as possible. Should i go to trade school to fill in some of the gaps as far as my technical skills and knowledge? I've already made up my mind that this is what I want to do until I retire. I'm 28 years old now.
Hey Donald, I have a question about how to get a company to take you on as an apprentice. What's your advice on convincing a company to take you on as an apprentice? I was told to not ask the company directly for an apprenticeship, and to instead ask for a part time position first. Edit: one thing I should add is that I'm in college right now for an electrical program so my availability is not good. Ideally I get an apprenticeship and drop out I'd really appreciate your advice, thanks.
A lot of companies only apprentice the top 25% of their employees. The trick is to be hired…..doesn’t matter what position…..helper, entry level, laborer, just get hired. Then excel at everything the position requires. Companies only invest in guys they feel are worth it.
If your working under a descent mechanic it’s a normal rate in the beginning. Don’t be late for 90 days, stay late whenever asked and you should receive a raise pretty quick. This trade rewards the new apprentices that are committed. Be the best helper possible. If it’s time to clean, be the best broom on the site. The better you are at your job the more they will teach you.