I'm union. Couldn't beat the benefits and pension. Where I'm from, the union is beneficial in training, contact negotiation and workplace safety. Personally, I'd like to organize all the talented hands and boost the wages for brothers in the south. Anyhow, stay safe out there.
Being a welder in the union another great advantage is that you can go down to the hall and practice welding for free, you dont have to bring your own rod to burn or even bring in your own pipe, the hall supplys everything and it dosnt cost anything extra. and by extra i mean that you still have to pay your dues and working dues but when your learning to weld you can easily burn enough rod and go through enough pipe that you will come out money ahead because you dont have to supply your own stuff
I was actually expecting austin to be union coming out of oklahoma, but if anyone is too "opinionated" then they dont need to be here anyways, those people that bash others just for not doing things the same way as them is ridiculous. Great video though yall!
Ya I think the hall is in Tulsa only an hour from our house. And yes, totally agree. Thanks for always chatting with us and watching our stuff. Have a great weekend.
Austin and Kayla I will! And yes I love welding so much! I'm gonna try and go welder help for a while and learn from a welder out there all the tricks and tips and then try and break out!
That is awesome. We really think that the best way to break out welding on the pipeline. Build your contacts and learn learn learn. Your on the right track.
Austin is truly a professional. Did I hear the “dedication”word? Lovely. Taking care of one’s self. Doesn’t get any better. Literally, it doesn’t. Life has no guarantees. Bless you both. 🙏
I’ve been a Union Pipefitter for 19 years and I can tell you if your a good welder you don’t have to worry about being out off work they are always looking for good welders.
Not that Big Daddy does Pipeline work, he does industrial welding but did 20 years non union and to date 11 years union... We too have friends both union and non and believe it's what works and all that matters is that you enjoy what you do - GREAT VIDEO !
YES! Some of my favorite people to talk to about this subject are people that have done both. I love hearing their stories and perspective. Many times it sounds a lot like this. They have lived the good and the bad of both and are able to step back and see if for what it is. I would hate to think of the friends I wouldn't have if I would have chose to be "divided" on this topic. Being open and understanding it is a personal choice goes a long way in all things in life. This is no different. Thank you for leaving a sweet comment and always watching. Hope y'all have a great evening. Talk soon.
Enjoy your videos. 74 years old and still watching the bubble. So hard to save for retirement when there are so many tools to buy. As you said, you must have several different tools or skills in your tool box. Welders make more money than an operator or an inspector. To make any more progress, your only out is to become the best pipe welder in the world and the rep that goes with it. It is very hard to watch the bubble and not let your mind wonder about the drama in normal life. The only "real" thing that " pays of" is hard work and and growth in your trade.
Thank you, Robert. We are glad that you are here. We couldn't agree more. You know what I love about that.... hard work still pays off. That is tried and true and something no one can take or give you. I think people loose sight of that for whatever reason. Drama. Money. Climbing the ladder.
I liked this video. Even though Kayla looked a little stressed by the subject. Interesting to hear your perspective. My job is so very similar to what you describe and I enjoy hearing you guys talk about it. thanks again
Hey, Wayne. You may be right about me being stressed. We have never talking about controversial stuff before and I guess my hope is always that we can portray in the videos how we feel in real life. It is easier to do that in video form compared to text, but it is still hard sometimes. Thank you for always watching the videos and supporting the channel. Hope you have a wonderful day.
Ok kids. Here is my take for what it's worth. Everybody has to eat. I don't fault anybody for being union or non-union. I've been a union member all my construction life in California. The union strength is different in every state. What the union offers is retirement and health benefits and good wages that were fought for by those that came before us. I'm almost ready to retire and I will have a pension to draw from and affordable insurance in my retirement years thanks to the union. If you are going to work non-union try to put $100 a week into a long term retirement account. When you get to be my age you will be glad you did. Thanks for your video's. God bless the both of you after all He is the one who really takes care of us.
Amen to that. We haven't saved like we should have. We were so focused on saving for lay offs that we didn't put much back for retirement. We are working on learning about what is the best way to do that. Thank you for watching and for your comment. We hope you have a great day.
thank you so much for this video. I'm about to try and break out. this has been the most help video I've seen. I have worked union in my other trade and liked it but I think this had helped me to make my mind up. really really helpful guys. thanks again.
This is great, Heath. I am so glad we could help. This is the exact reason we share and try to offer different perspectives. Keep us updated on your success. We hope all the best for you.
I think you both answered a great question, and I am not for or against union or non-union, I am not with pipeline, I am a 50 year old widow and my husband & father both worked in a union (wasnt pipeline) you are both correct there is good and bad in both sides, people have to remember we are all human and also to everyone you have to "BE TRUE TO YOURSELF". Thank you for your videos, Love them.
Thank you for watching, Karyn. Human. I have made that exact statement before and actually mentioned it in another comment. This life is short and I refuse to let something silly divide or dictate how I see someone. I guess it is hard for some to take a step back and really see this for what it is. A job. A career. A living. A way to travel. Austin loves this work and no matter what "side" he is on today or if it changes in the future we are the same people. At our core. That is what matters. Thank you for understanding and bringing up that point. It is one of my favorites. Hope to see you in the comments again. Have a great evening. :)
I don't know anything about pipeline work. I've been a building trade union pipe welder for 15 years. There are typically reasons why people are unable to find union work. I've never been out of work when I didn't want to be. You nailed it when you said, if your flexible, have a good work ethic, and know your craft. You will be successful on either side. At this stage of my career. I could make more money non union. I would never go that route because I love the benefits, pension, and brotherhood. We also have a lot of flexibility to line up jobs, especially if you have a good reputation. Thanks for the video. It was ballenced and well thought out.
Well said. Been union painter for 35 years started non union we are all brothers and sisters in my eyes. Keep up the good work ... love your channel it is good for rving and the trades..
45 years workin with my hands been union only last14years So Ive worked both sides Ive heard all the bad things about being union for decades then I got in the union and wastold how horrible working non union is LOL. Im not a pipeliner , I am U.A. though pipefitting and plumbing. The people that Bash union couldnt make it or got pissed about something and there are guys in the union that couldnt make it non union always talking crap about the non union. I used to work steady for one company for years no time off but I only made half the amount . Now I work half the time make more money Travel , and time with family, But sometimes a roller coaster ride. I got to a point in my carear that I was between jobs and had a chance to go union not really wanting to but said what the heck Ill just try it . Its been good for me. Just be careful what you belive when you hear the stories. Whatever you want to do is nothing to appologize for. Like your videos
Austin has said that if things align and it feels right he would try it. You never know if you like something till you try it for yourself. I think this is why we have learned some lessons the hard way. Oops. We never say never and try to not "bash" because every situation is different. I am glad you are getting paid what you deserve now and are enjoying the union and the opportunities is gives you and your family. That is what it is all about. Thank you for watching. Stay safe and have a wonderful day.
Great choice of first video. I think you handled the delicate subject well. I am a pipe fitter by trade, I've worked both union and non union. Currently I'm a QC inspector trying to break out into the pipeline industry. What are some newbie mistakes you see these inspectors make?
Being Union, I think the biggest benefit to being Union is the insurance, retirement and getting your next job. its harder for non union. either way you need to pass the test so they know you are skilled either way. I respect non union because its harder for them. there is pros and cons of both sides, like anything else.
Great vlog!! Noticed there was a commercial on your vlog that's great!👍🏻 Austin you should strap a go pro on your chest or welding helmet and show us what it like to be welding up side down. Also make a Instagram, Facebook, SnapChat for the vlog!! I'm sure your fans would love you see your real worklfe! I get snaps from my brother welding in Mexico at a power plant. It awesome! If you are trying to build up your vlog make at least 3 post a day! It's easy. Doesn't have to be prefect just keep updating the world what you doing in your life. This is why people watch your vlog everyday after work to is to see you guys. The fans and people who respect you!!
Thank you, Daniel. We are working on getting video of Austin at work. We have to be careful of companies policies, etc. We are on all the socials. The links are down below so check us out if you are on them. I don't know if we will ever get 3 videos a day, but we try to post on others socials when we can. We appreciate your suggestions and support. Hope all is well for you. Have a great evening.
Great topic!! and its been a sketchy topic right? either your in the Union or Non-union? some of my bros are in the union and some are Non-union-- but it's all the opportunity that's comes along and either you take it or not! and make a good judgement at that time-- at the end of the day-- you have a goal and you work those goals to make you better at the long run--- Work hard, keep making quality welds, have pride at your work!! sacrifice, save$, retire young, travel the world or what ever you love to do! Either you a Non-Union or not- it depends how you lay -out your plan in life!!
Any good mechanic worth his salt can find work welding or fitting pipe if he's willing to travel. Long time union Boilermaker here. Thanks for the video.
hey guys nice video. the burning questions. ..no pun intended like I said it's all about making ends meet and being happy...Union non union it shouldn't make a difference.i respect you and your wife.best wishes from a soggy Oklahoma hand...lol
ha for real. We obviously agree. We love this industry and everyone in it. After all the rioting this last year it became even more apparent to me how important it is for all of us to stick together and support one another on the important things like family, staying working, and being healthy. At the end of the day, everyone out here is a hard working human and supporting that is what is important. Take care and thanks for watching. - Kayla
A union pipefitter that can weld and is willing to travel isn't gonna have to make many tough financial decisions. I think you guys could do pretty well for yourselves. And you don't have to except every job that is offered
There are reasons to be union. My dad was union. I was union. Because I am retired, I find no need to educate anyone about the good unions have done for the working stiff. It's not my job or duty to preserve what is America for the future.
Love this one. I think we will do a "what tools are necessary to start" video. Tools can be a never ending hole so I think that would be super helpful.
This is a tough subject. I really appreciate the video. If pipeline work opens up with government spending in that situation I would go union. Back in the late 2000's. The local 488 in Alberta was paying $55+ an hour. Private contractors were paying up to $65 an hour plus $35 an hour for the welding rig There was not enough skilled pipe welders in Canada at the time. It lasted for a few years like that. My hope is LNG pipelines get approved and fast tracked very soon. Austin. Is it still all Lincoln out there? Is there many guys running Miller? My next investment is my welder. Any suggestions? I love Lincoln but I want lots of aux power. I'm leaning towards a 300 cross country.
I see more Lincoln's than I do Miller's but there are a lot of Millers out there as well. I haven't heard anything bad about the new Miller 350 or the Cross Country. If it was me I would defiantly be willing to try either one out.
I'm a union plumber, never been on the other side, but am working on getting back into welding. Having a UA book as a plumber, I know I can travel to work as a welder or helper on union jobs, but not having a book as a welder or fitter, I wonder if in a pinch I could weld non union outside my local area without a problem. Do you have any insights on that?
The UA has travel cards you can pull and go where the work is. They are also very political and not very fair at times ie. the call by name ratio to the out of work list. Just a little fun fact for you guys. Awesome video btw! :)
I am a hard worker but am I to old to start, there's plenty of hustle left in me and I got that first in last out way of life but is it enough for my age when most unions look away
How often do y'all ever go back home. I'm 17 at the moment and want to eventually settle down and not be away from my family like for example, military members.
Hey there. It kind of depends. Busy years Austin only gets back home once or twice a year. Other years like the last two years we will be home for a 1 -3 months at a time. It just really depends. I will say that if you live under your means you can be home as much as you want really. You choose which jobs you take so if you have money saved there is no reason you can't be home more if you want to be. Hope this answers your question.
Hey, Dave. We will talk more about this in a future video of this series, but the short answer is from a tech school. I think that video will be out in about three weeks so check back for it.
I hope you have a way to read this. I will work on something. I haven't looking into the process, but I will. I am so sorry. Question - if I can't find the time right now to caption every video would a coordinating blog post work?? Is that something you could read? When our blog is up and running we plan to have blog post with almost every video, so maybe you would like that?
hey! Austin & Kayla. well I'm not big with computer technologies! ha. but everytime I turn on captions.. honestly I can lips read well not the best, but well enough. captions don't do exactly what u guys talking. if u click captions and read it if u can? heading people had told me they can't read and listen at the same time. so... i don't know. RU-vid has their own sets. so the last week you posted new blog and the captions came out right.. I was surprised and why not the rest of them in older vlogs? it none of u guys faults.. it way it is. it sucks for deaf community thoe.
That is weird that it works sometimes and doesn't others. I was looking into it for a couple mins earlier and noticed some were done automatically. Glad you can at least see that. I wondered if it had a hard time with me because I can get to talking fast. I hate that for you and for the community as a whole. If we hire help one day I will defiantly work on adding that into what we do. Until then I am glad you can read lips and can hang out with us. Be well. Thank you for being here.
appreciate guys! always want a job as pipeliner welder. I'm pipe welder at electric boat.. for Us Navy. so.. love to own a rig what Austin have! thinking about getting one and do side job travel around in local area do repairs.. definitely getting 5th wheel.. been researching.. 5th wheel is better to choose, because of better storage. so.. u guys are awesome! would love meet u both someday! 😀
Don't quit till you get there and then still don't quit. Can't wait to hear about all you accomplish so you better keep us updated. Sounds like you have been doing your research. Please if you ever see us or know we are in your area each out. We would love to meet you also.
I've been a union pipefitter/welder for the past 5 years . I've personally traveld a fair amount from job to job in the country . There's been several "sketchy " companies but not in sense of "hopefully my check will cash" lol . But more in the sense of lack of tools and unsatisfactory work conditions... I here the money non union vs union is very similar ... just what I hear. The deciding factors for me union vs non union was the "BENIFITS" insurance/retirement. I have heard of some non union companies having 401ks. As far as forced donations on pay day.. never encountered that ever.. enjoyed the video 👌🏻
If you know that check is going to be there its a good day, right? lol I wish I could say that hasn't happened to us once. We see the lack of tools and unsatisfactory work conditions getting worse. Especially the last two years when it got slow. We love finding companies that care about their hands and try hard to always finish those jobs and look forward to working with them again. It sure does make a difference when you are provided with the proper equipment and co-workers. I was telling Austin that I really see those "benefits" paying off if you make a career out of it. If you plan on making this your life then I think that benefit stacks even greater in your favor. To answer your question - yes. Non-union companies offer 401ks, but you never stay with one long enough. You might as well just put into one on your own (this is my take, but we are still ironing out these details). Glad you have never been forced to donate. That really bothered me when I heard that. This family had kids and things were tight at the time and I just couldn't believe they were essentially being forced to give more and more to make someone happy just so they wouldn't get crap assignments the next week.
Hey brother most non Union companies only guarantee a check because of the high turn over most folks won't last more than than seven years with a company most of us will go we're the money is at if your non Union.
I hate when RU-vid does that. I think for welding insprectors the biggest mistake is not knowing the ins and outs of welding, specifically pipeline welding. Some of these guys show up only knowing what they learned in a week long class and are a little big for their britches in my opinion. The way I see it is that everyone is out there to get the same job done and if you don't respect the welder and the work he does then it will be a rocky relationship. The jobs were the welders and weld inspectors are on the same team go so much smoother. There are so many different variables in welding that learning it from a book only goes so far. Luckily you have been around it some as a fitter. I think that learning the trade you will be inspecting would be a good place to start. The inspectors job is very important, but they don't have to be a jerk about small things. I also think many welders really like an inspector who keeps it real and is up front. Let them no your expectations on test day and in the field and they will follow. I am no help as to what other inspectors would say to this questions, but from the welding point of view I think this one is a big one. At least that is what I always hear them talking about around the campfire after work. Hope that helps. Thank you for following along with the series and supporting us on talking about this subject first. Whew. I am glad it is over and we can move on to the good stuff!
Chris Adkins Home I am taking the API 1104 CWI this fall. I started welding 27-28 years ago at the age of 14. I will say just the medical and dental benefits in union work is well worth it. Plus continuous training and perspectives that I did not find non Union. Local to local varies in benefits and pay But over all most UA pensions are really really good. The pay in my state is more than almost any non Union job available I've seen advertised . For my local UA In March 2017 at $43+ an hour. That amount just increased this month. $2.50 cents added to the total package this year alone. Last I checked it was not posted yet but I expect it to be close to $45 an hour plus all the benefits.
Im a union welder by force on my job, first union job, but when the local went on strike, this "scab" still went in and threw the hood down and burned rod. At the end of the day, my priority is providing for my family. My so called "union brothers" aren't gonna pay my bills. I'm pro both, but work ethic is the best thing to have rather than union or not.
Yes to the work ethic!! It is so true. I love that truth too because it is something no one can give you or take away from you. It is in your hands to learn and hustle. I think keeping that perspective and then also priorities is a good way to go about it. Family is super high up on the priorities list.
G Loyd- I knew I would get a reaction out of a keyboard warrior, hahaha, someone so mad over someone else they don't know. You should be more worried about your cuts, it looks like a beaver came by and chewed threw it. Remember, a grinder and paint, will make you the welder you ain't. I saw your branch video, I hope this ain't your day job kid, you won't last long.
OMG YOU'RE NON UNION?! HOW DARE YOU! haha joking. I think people get way to bent outta shape about that stuff. as long as your a hard working American worker that contributes to society it doesn't matter. we're all here to live the American dream. my girlfriend and I love your videos! cheers from Minnesota!
GASP. lol. We agree. I don't know that is as blissful as people think, but we love this life and love sharing it here. Thank y'all for watching. I love hearing that some girls are watching from their boyfriends/husbands profiles. On my back end it says 90% of our views are male and I'm always wondering "where the ladies at." :)
Union vs non union is all preference. The people that say shit like scab or rats. Make me laugh, union and non union or 85 percent in the same. There's some differences, I started out working non union and am now union. I find that the only difference is that I really notice is I pay dues and they take 2 percent of my wages, I have 1000 stupid rules, and as for the you don't really run into sketchy union company's, most of the union pipeline company's I've worked for are sketchy-er then the non-union lol, cough cough price Gregory cough cough welded. As long as your making money and like where your working then who cares.
YES!! I totally agree. I wouldn't have guessed that about them being sketchy, but I have heard different things about people on certain Union jobs being forceful about different things. Like donations on pay day. It is a pass the hat but if you don't give enough you are looked down upon. Curious... is this something you have ran across?
Austin and Kayla I've seen that on different crews, typically the Mexican crews. The foreman will usually rent a house, and hire out other Mexicans in as company hands and the foreman will charge them 250 per week off there paycheck and 250 to live in the house per person. I was more talking about stuff like " if you don't do (insert sketchy as shit here) , then I'm gonna either a( run you off and ruin your name) or b( I know (insert Dick head person from your union here and he'll get your book taken away). The job I'm on now the foreman won't give me a water jug on my dozer because " you don't need any water, I have ac in your machine". Just things like that. Stuff like that happens union and non union.
This particular story was donations for a "fellow brother" who had fallen on hard times. I don't remember if it was an accident or financial struggles, but it was defiantly sketchy how it was being forced.
Austin and Kayla I've run into that a little too. And The same thought always comes to mind not to sounds like a a-hole but cmon seriously financial struggles? We bring home 3 grand a week, if they weren't out at the bar every night after work, or blowing it on drugs you wouldent have financial problems. They guys will brag about how they spent " 400 at the bar last night" or " I just bought my girlfriend a camper, I hope my wife doesn't find out". Stuff like that is a joke. Makes me wonder
You might not know it, but it was the unions that set the wages you earn today, as well as the benefits. People spilled blood and tears fighting for good pay and fair treatment from Tycoons of the past. Maybe think about that and show some respect.
