there is a difference between hazing and flat out bullying. don't put up with it just cause the guy has been in for 40 years. you're a grown person and are there to be respected and learn. we all started knowing nothing
There is significance in accountability! When my dad came up, apprentices knew what they needed to do. He busted his ass! Not a big man! But tough as nails! The hazing you refer to is nothing compared to what he encountered! Food for thought! Take it back a generation or two.. the solution was buck up! 🇺🇸💪🏼
When you've seen an apprentice take a threaded rod to the skull because they told him his hard hat inconvenienced them protesting hardhats, you can talk to me about hazing. When you've seen a JW stab himself in the heart because he was tired of being setup, you can talk to me about hazing. And yes some of those guys told me they had it even worse somehow. Guys they knew also committed suicide. As for me? They put me through a grinder. Sometimes I think they sold our class to science for the sars boosters. Just do pushups if you arms lockup they told us. It's character building they would say. Sorry you don't have a father in the business, you just wasted five years of your life. Ok here's what you made of me now deal with my existence. Not directed at anyone the topic just grinds my gears. As far as I am concerned I gave my back shouldering conduit for 'men' that didn't want to hurt they're backs boo hooo grown men not manning up like I had to hahahaha wtf.... I've seen iron willed men break from some of these jobs... Hey god forbid I was still living in a free country where I should of been free to walk away and not be sabotaged by some looney toon ring kissers they kept warning us about! Paid my dues until I got my health care and escaped with what was left of my life!
Here's a couple tips I'd add: 1. Have a second phone that's on a pay as you go plan that functions as your work phone; it's only used for emergencies or when work needs to reach you. Because using it costs money, you will be completely decentivized to use it outside of that purpose. Bonus points if you use an old school flip phone. 2. Have a dumb watch. Quickly glancing at your watch to see how things are doing time wise is a MUCH better look than having to bust out your work phone to check it. More efficient as well. 3. Bring water and healthy snacks. It's not uncommon to be given a few 10 minute breaks throughout the day; the job can be taxing especially during the summer. Use those 10 minutes to refuel yourself if needed. This also a good time to stretch as well.
I’m very thankful for this video. I’ve been planning on trying to become a IBEW brother! To get advice directly from one is exactly what I’ve been needing so thank you man! Everything you said was very well said and straightforward and that’s one of the things I admire about all of you guys who have been in it for years! Hopefully one day I’ll have the privilege of working with you!
My best advice, your Journeyman are there to serve as examples and teach you. Some are shining examples of professionalism and mechanical pride. Others are shining examples of what not to do and who not to become. We don't know it all, but a qualified Journeyman can figure anything out by adding the right questions. Learn. What to do, what not to do, and what to ask... If YOU happen to be productive, great, but your job is to learn...
I have my last interview tomorrow. I am 33 joining the pipe fitters union.praying I get in, transitioning from being a pastor to this. Super excited and thank you for the information. This has been very helpful!
Great video! 4th year apprentice here and I’m glad you made points on what a good brother is. As you said every member should understand what the union is and how things operate and why they operate that way. That could be its own separate video!
This is so great to hear. I love your channel I am huuuuge supporter of organized labor and love that your channel is literally called "union minded" being a good member is what I care about. This country has gone to shit because we are too afraid of democracy in the work place and guess what happened? We LOST it! We need to get it back
Thank you so much for the vid. I am trying to get into the IBEW too and I am living within the local 223 Mass. I was a Aviation Electrical Mechanical Repairman but have not been in the trade for years after the military. I am missing it and deciding to coming back. I met someone and she recommended the Union through Helmets 4 Hardhead. I am very excited and the application date is coming up but the start date for the program is not until 09/2025. Thank you again for all the tips and advices.
30 year old dad looking to make a career change, and I hope I work with someone like you in the future. You don't speak condescendingly, and I look forward to sharing the space with you down the line.
Thanks bro, just remember, people will always treat you the way you allow them to. Some journeymen were hazed and think it's what they are supposed to do to the next person. First one that tried to haze me was shocked when I put him in his place. I ain't the one. Lol
I’m a first year helper in the iuec. Love your channel btw man. It’s tough and a lot to take in. But I’m trying my best to pay attention and work hard. It’s a grind but I like doing it
@@johntoland7198 hey that's awesome man that's where I hope to get in some day !! I Have an IBEW interview coming up only because they have recruitments every year ... be safe brotha !!
I have my physical for local 3 elevator division may 1st 23’ … I completely have zero knowledge of electrical anything . Looking forward to learning the right way and being a part of something bigger than just a paycheck
I've got my orientation for the apprenticeship in about two weeks for Local 26. I'm super excited to start a new career, but also nervous about possibly having to do a lot of driving to get to work and whatnot. I want to be as good of an apprentice as possible and I appreciate your videos on this stuff!
Your channel is dope! My interview is in 5 days. I grinded hard and got an app to study math for 30 minutes before i took the test and aced it. Ive flipped houses before so i know a lil something but I know nothing about electrical work in the slightest. I think I can be great though! Studying for my interview so I know what they are looking for
You mention the distinct difference between being an electrician and becoming a UNION WIREMAN. It's not that we're better than those outside the union. It's just that we're just as invested in your success as our own. With the tide rise all ships. You're not alone.
Great information my 22 year old son took the test for IBEW 150 in Illinois he passed the aptitude test but wasnt chosen after the interview process due to limited slots... I told him dont give up it may take a few years. Im a 27 year Teamster and know the value of union representation..
any updates or advice? im 17 and really thinking of applying for IBEW 134 in Illinois, just trying to learn more about it and ask around before actually committing.
I LOVE YOUR VIDEOS MAN! It really is so much more than just a job, unions build livelihoods, they empower workers, I could not be more excited to be getting started on this journey. THANK YOU FOR ALL THE ADVICE
So I went to school and I love this field, BrotherHood any tips on how to get a job in Cali? I’m a northern Cali guy and just want to work and join the Crew advance in the best strongest safest way possible. I’ve been out since the summer of 2017 but there hasn’t been a day that went by without thinking of being a lineman.
Thank you for the helpful videos. I have a question. Since the IBEW is competitive, I applied with 2 locals. One in Washington and the other in Oregon. I would like to work in Oregon, however, I want the experience and opted to increase the opportunities of getting into a program. If given the opportunity to work, after say, 1-2 years as an apprentice would I be able to transfer to another local? Thank you
My only worry is that ive been doing electrical in NYS for the last 3-4 years (which doesnt require a license to be an electrician). So ive had a lot of training in different aspects of electrical work. Because i didnt start by pulling wire for 6 months, i was thrown right into wiring apartments, houses, businesses, reading (and eventually designing) prints, ordering supplies, etc. Im worried when i move to a different state, (MA, NH, VT, or CT) that not only will i have to start all over in a union, with a severely reduced pay, but that ill be treated like an idiot from day one. Anyone in the union now have any advice or ways for going about it?
Hey Brother. Thank you for this video! After many months of waiting, I have finally been selected to the apprenticeship program with IBEW Local 236! Your advise will be on my brain as I begin my first year and going forward! Really motivating stuff! My orientation is in a few days and Im beyond excited to start my career and become the greatest electrician I can be.
@@xXRenegadeXx Hey brother! It’s amazing! My company is super cool and they treat their people really well. Right now we are doing heating controls and we also did some lighting packages. I’m learning a ton! Working right in the heart of Albany. On top of roofs enjoying the Albany skyline!
@@tjblanchard hi I’m rn going into my senior year of highschool and we are a trade highschool and I’ve been in our electrical program since a freshman and have been really nervous about joining the union after I’m finished with highschool and was wondering how much do they expect of you and what should you do and not do?
@@thomasamaral7628 You have a great head start for your career. Part of your job is to LEARN what your should and shouldn't do. They will not expect that you know what to do or not to do. They will instruct you on this. And if you are in a situation where you aren't sure, just ask!
Great video Eric! I've really been wanting to join, but I have some worries. Due to my religion I cannot work during the Sabbath from sunset on friday to sunset on saturday. we also have 3 feasts throughout the year Passover, Feast of Trumpets, and the Feast of Weeks, as well as one standalone Holy Day being the Day of Atonement, for a total of 7 other holy Sabbaths I cannot work during apart from the normal Sabbaths. Would this affect my chances of getting an apprenticeship/jobs? If I do get accepted as an apprentice will I be expected to work those days even after making them known to my boss/bosses? Thanks in advance bossman!
Overtime cannot be forced on anyone Tim. Especially apprentices. And we do not discriminate against any religions. Observing your faith will not adversely affect your career. Apply and join!
Don’t take days off, make yourself available for overtime even when you’re not interested. The most important things are to be attentive, helpful and truly be interested in learning the mechanics of our business.
My son is 18 years old graduated from a vocational high school with plumbing certificate. Has 250 hour electrical training certification and also has 18 months working with a master electrician non union. He also went to school for HVAC and is EPA certified. My fear is the union will not help him be the best individual electrician. He is very smart. Was thinking about making him union after he passes the Journeyman test. Please advise. Thx u in advance
The Union apprenticeship will give him a lot better training I have both those with non union training and those with no training in my classes the real advantage is the ones coming in with no bad habits and no unsafe methods do much better
Thanks for the great info. I am 36 years old and am miserable at my current job. I recently had a conversation with a gentleman who is an IBEW member and it has really got me thinking about applying. I'm apprehensive due to my age and lack of any electrical experience whatsoever. I understand that the whole point of apprenticeship is to learn, but do the journeymen and trainers expect any basic level of experience or are they ok with someone 100% green? Also, does age play a part in being selected and successful? Thanks!
A 1st year apprentice is just that, a 1st year. When I came into the trade I didn't know anything. Also age ain't nothing but a number. Do not waste time in misery, make the change, you will not regret it!
Im a few years older than you but decided to take a career change. Didn’t know shit about the trade but went to a good trade school and was educated by some good electricians and help from some well educated peers. I got my ca trainee card and applied to a non-union company. It’s a great learning experience so that when I’m done with my Algebra class I can apply for the union and pass the test and I apply. I wanted some experience so that way the union knows i’m serious about the trade and have something to bring to the table. Not only that but I know what hard word to expect. I just need help in the math part and I’m good. Good luck with the trade.
@@joeshmoe8952 that's great! Best of luck to you! That's a good idea to get some experience first. My closest chapter is in Nashville which is about an hour and a half away from me. I'm considering options closer to home before making a decision.
Not be good brothers and sisters. There will be those who do not understand why overtime exists in the first place, so they may give you a hard time though they shouldn't. Remember you cannot be punished for not working o.t.
Right, wrong or indifferent; possibly. There are workers who seek out overtime like it’s going out of style and those who say you can’t get that time back. If you’re with a busy shop and they need you, you might want to smell the coffee. If you’re not and you advertise that you have other passions than work in life, that will pass. But it’s best to know where you are.
Hi, I’m 17 years old and I want to try the ibew. I’ve been seeing nothing but great things from the union and I’m interested. How do I start? I don’t know nothing about being a electrician. I’m going to graduate high school this year and I don’t know what I wanna do.
What you'll want to do is a quick google search for the IBEW local union nearest to you. Contact that local union and ask them how to apply. Some unions have you apply in person others online. That's the first step though. Identify your local union and call them to get clear instructions on how to apply for apprenticeship.
Hey man i got a question , im a very slow learner , would this be a problem in the union? I am trying to change that but its just a major issue of mine , and i feel like this would make me fail in this trade
Don't play that apprentice foreman shit. Even when you think you know it all just remember that a lot of these JW's have forgotten more than you have learned. they say that the smartest person on the job is always a fifth year apprentice, while the dumbest person would always be a first year journeyman. Remain humble and always know your place.
Haven't heard of a physical exam. Here in 26 there is a fitness for duty exam some companies put brothers and sisters through. Things like picking up a bucket with 50 lbs of stuff in it. But I have no info on a physical.
Careful being a shoprocket. One of the apprentices that was competing used to shoulder two bundles of conduit at once! He didn't last the week! I got pushed to move double time by a foreman who wanted rmc and emt moved. I constantly had to tell him it was a two man job to move all that conduit up six floors. After I moved thousands of feet of it on my own my back was sore and I said no more without help. He pleaded with me to at least move one piece at a time. The crazy thing was every floor of that stairwell had one of those huge heating fans. When that thing kicked on while I was shouldering four inch emt, it spun me around and the dam thing fell on my neck and that foreman NEVER FINISHED THE ACCIDENT REPORT! I try not to hate him for this day. Accountability... right... verify and get home safe and alive... You don't want spinal inflammation nope... not a club you want to be part of... Suppose I could say we were building a cryo research lab on top of a hospital. There was a lot of rmc involved and only two apprentices moving it and the other one also ruined his back leaving me to do it alone... And when I asked about a crane the foreman tells me it was too expensive for the budget! Really now? And one last thing. I was in class when they said to us one of these days one of you is going to end up on social media complaining about how crazy this business can get at eating you alive... Well how bout them apples...
That is a crazy story that I feel is not an isolated event. Never ever be a shop rocket! Always always protect yo neck! They do not care about you so you must care for you! It's a terrible shame taht it is like this with some. Your foreman was a piece of crap!
I find it difficult to join ibew in nyc. Since they take like applications once a year or none at all and I’m ready to work I’m already doing electrical work but want to take it further as a career. I love getting my hands dirty idc
I just moved to henderson nv and im a delivery driver for city electric supply. I was wondering i want to transfer to being a electrician. But i justvstarted this job shoukd i just keep this job to show me what is what and what i am touching ing .please give me feed back please and thank you also would love to go work fornthe union ??? Thank you for this video sir i appreciate it ❤
Anyone familiar with GAN? They’re the company that is handling the testing, employment verification, letters of recommendation, algebra verification, etc. I just took the aptitude test last tuesday and was wondering how long it takes before I hear back from them.
I just passed my aptitude test and am awaiting a email for the next portion of the application process ( the interview infront of the panel). I would love to talk to you some time.
@@raindrxpz2473 I got a study guide from Electric Prep and passed my test, made it to the interview stage at Local 24. For reasons relating to my own obliviousness, had to reapply, and will be using that study guide again.
All of who's members lost 66 percent of their shifts? If a local union has lost a majority of its work, the membership may need to travel to other locals to man their work. Until the work at their home local improves.
I'm sure it wasn't intended to belittle or demean them, but becoming a shoppie in no way prepares one for life in this trade. I'm a 2nd gen, contractor's son. Went through the apprenticeship, and was not allowed to work for him. 12 years later, caught a call and worked for dad for 13 years. When he retired, I had to re- learn the road. Fortunately, I have some rock solid brothers who ) sometimes less than gently) reminded me. Shop hands are generally competent mechanics, but also generally fall short on the brotherhood scale... and yes, I'm speaking in generalities.
@@sredner1992 shoppies are usually good electricians or they woulda been spun, but are generally wormy as hell to stay around that long. just generally speaking. nothing wrong with being a shoppie as long as ur a good brother at the same time
@jordan It can be a tightrope act at times. Doing the right thing is rarely the easy thing, especially when it comes to convincing someone else to spend their money. I found myself constantly finding a selling point for the shop... and that was family.
IT is information technician. Basically networking with computer systems like servers, routers, and this type of thing. I never heard of an infrastructure tech.
People complaining about Paying dues is funny to me "I don't wanna pay to work" ok well I'll do that and STILL make more money than you 😂 If you don't pay dues, your paying your boss!
Don’t go in thinking and acting like you know things even if you come in with a couple years of experience. Journeymen feel fulfilled when they teach there apprentice something new so even if they tell you something you already knew just act like it’s the first time being shown something. Refrain from saying “I know” There is nothing that pisses a Jdub off more than saying i know.
I just took my aptitude test yesterday. When I showed up 30 mins early there was only 2 other guys there already. One my age and the other just a couple years older. I’m 41 and asked myself the same thing. Am I too old? Hell no! I feel as young as these 18-25 year old guys that walked in 5 mins before the test began. The one thing I got out of it was that I know the struggle and I’m willing to put in time and effort into this. I will be there 30 mins early every day when they need me. I will work all the overtime they ask me to work. I will learn what I need to learn. I have a wife, 2 kids and a mortgage that depend on me getting to journeyman. Biggest regret is I wish did this 10 years ago. But the more I wait the more regret! I should get my results in a couple of weeks. And if I don’t pass I’ll be taking the aptitude test again in 6 months. So go for it. Only thing that’s stopping you is you. Good luck.
@@rafaelmanuel9564 your telling me you do nothing in plc's, EV, hi tec devices, if you only run pipe and jerk wire you are only part of an electrician you may want to get more training it is available free in most locals
Well done. I might add stay off your cell phone and silence all the alerts you're getting from social sights. The only thing I disagree slightly with is the tool list. Chances are a good mechanic's tool bag is lacking some things like a hacksaw and plumb bob and has other things like ratchet wrenches and impact tips not on the list. thanks for the video. A Union is the best thing to happen to anyone's career.
Thank you! Thanks for your input as well. We never have to agree on everything. I can debate the merits of the tool list but I understand fully your perspective. I agree 100 percent with your last sentence, a Union is definitely the best thing that can happen to anyone's career.
I was in the union for 8 months! I was being treated like shit! I was never treated like a brotherhood! These guys never wanted to show me anything! I be standing around watching them never get hands on! I never click with any of these guys! They never invited me out to lunch! The company I was working for was disrespectful! All I wanted to learn a new skill! I am hearing impaired! A lot of the guys hated me on that and frustrated by me! Got laid off for a month! They wanted me to go work 4hrs away from home! Ended up quitting just wasn’t for me anymore! But I got to experience what it’s like on job site!
Kinda described my experience. Still have an interest for the trade at heart and I enjoyed what I did when I actually did something at least. Its cool until you’re put with folks that aren’t willing to teach you anything. Then showing up becomes dreadful and you question if you can commit for 4 years lol
Lost me when you said apprentices have no rights for their 5 years. A lot of you old guys forget what its like to get punched in the mouth.. We're all adults and construction workers.
Respect is one thing rights are another. You can be expelled from apprenticeship for a multitude of reasons and it's understood that the union has that ability. It's indentured servitude. That doesn't mean people can disrespect you on a jobsite. Just remember that people will treat you however you allow them to, that's in any aspect of life.
@@unionminded7918 it's funny that you're so tiny and small, you need a union, cause you can't negotiate and stand up for yourself. So daddy has to hold your hand.
