I think that’s what everyone did. We were just so excited to DO ALL THE THINGS!!! When everyone was telling us to slow down. But there is no slowing down when we WANT to learn.
After one year as an apprentice, there have been some really great days and really shit days. For me the hardest part is not knowing if I’m working for the right company, and if it would be any better elsewhere. I was hoping there would be more direction and teaching involved but some days it just feels like another job. If I want to learn anything it’s up to me to go home and do the research and that’s what I’m doing but I’m truly jealous of anyone able to work under someone with any sort of passion or mastery.. and most the other guys I work with are simply there for a paycheck and nothing more, so I have to occasionally remind myself why I’m here. It’s a journey.
Dustin, you seem like a kindred spirit! I was eager and curious throughout my entire apprenticeship, at times to a fault. I was obsessed with being a "real" electrician. I got my JW in 4 years and my masters license a year after that. It's been two years now and I have my own little service company in a busy tourist town. We're turning profit and have a great reputation. In my case, I did it on less than 10 years, but I'm crazy.
@@Shrampion meaning everyone’s bills are paid and then some, and there’s still more left over to the owner to do whatever he pleases with and it won’t hurt. Or at least that’s what I consider profit at minimum.
@Freedom1775 lol it is. You get a glimpse of the lifestyle of these filthy rich people, all the while knowing no matter how hard you work you will never achieve a fraction of that life style
@@Tre16 pays my bills but can't get me a house because the us wants to become a renters society for some fucking reason no hate on the trade just on our country.
For me being an apprentice the best feeling is when whoever my lead guy for the day is trust me to do stuff by myself and not check my work because of the established trust of my work being done right
I love it when I get to meet people who have this kind of passion for something. I also was super curious and asked a ton of questions, and it really helps you learn when you find someone just as passionate about something as you are.
I actually started my apprenticeship at 43 so I'm two years into it now. I'm still not quite able to quit my soul sucking 1st job which I've been at for almost 19 years so I'm working around 80 hours a week. I was (still am some days) worried that I'll get burnt out, but so far my passion to learn has overcome that. Is it tough? Fuck yeah it is, but it's absolutely worth it. I love what I'm doing and I love learning a new trade from almost scratch.
One of the few jobs you have to be as tuff as you are smart. Nice trip down memory lane. Those stories reminded me a lot of my apprenticeship. Wow that takes me back. Great video
I'm 22 and 1 month into IBEW apprenticeship Local 369 and I love it. Doing all kinds of different stuff from conduit saddles, offsets, and 90s, pulling wire, making up joints, running MC, can lights etc etc. Love using tools and making something and its cool to see the progress of the job as more and more gets built and put together.
Consider yourself blessed. IBEW 716 here, and I wasn't allowed to do anything except what I was told (which was rarely electrical work) like sweeping, cleaning, digging, moving rigid across the jobsite, throwing direct bury over my shoulder and following the train, picking up heavy stuff, standing on stuff to act as a human vice grip... And getting told there's no time for me to play with my tools when I was eager to try it myself. I had to drive 84 miles each way to take a job nobody else wanted to go to just to get any kind of experience, after 2.5 years as an apprentice
I'm 35 and 4 months into an electrical apprenticeship. The pay cut is tough but the hardest thing I've found is starting back at the bottom of the ladder. I was good at my old job and had worked up the rungs about as far as I could before making the switch. Now it's all about being humble and open to learning and in some cases re-learning. What was said about racing around trying to impress and get the job done asap is true 😅 Thats another thing I'm still learning to tame down. No regrets though. With the renewables boom kicking off I see nothing but good times ahead for sparkies!
I'm 35 as well and about to start my apprenticeship in January. Giving up $30/hour (not great) white collar soul-sucking job for $18/hour and starting at the bottom like you said. I couldn't be happier or more excited. In 4 years time, it'll be more than worth the switch.
Yea brother I’m 34 and just passed my electrical exam. Good thing is I’m in a union already and just gonna jump from one job posting to another (for a pay raise).never to late to learn, besides 35 is still young. Good luck
It's not about being humble, its about willing to be exploited. Everyone deserves a living wage. I've had journeymen say "I wouldn't work construction even as a first year without at least 30 bucks an hour"
I’m 31 and just switched careers. I started my apprenticeship in January and these videos along with DIY experience have helped prepare me immensely for this job. This is the best job I’ve ever had and I’ve fallen in love with this trade.
I'm 38 and just made it to journeyman last year. Dont't give up man. I know first hand how hard it is to start over at the bottom of the ladder. You'll go through wierd challenges 2 years in people will assume you have been doing this all your life and expectations accordingly.... I had to learn so much off the cuff... I made it through the toughest years and now I can look forward to a great career where I am greatly valued as an asset insteaf of scraping by. Seriously, I do wish you the best!
My 1st year I did nothing but remodel work in an office building. I was so proud of myself that I knew how to run mc, strap it properly so it would pass inspection, trim out plugs and switches. I thought I was well on my way to becoming an expert sparky. But for like 6 months every switch I trimmed out had an old school switch loop to it. So the 1st time I had power feeding through the switch box, of course I hooked up the white to 1 terminal and black to the other just like I always had and couldn’t understand why the breaker was tripping. I got laughed at by the other apprentices and my butt chewed out by my JW for hooking up the switch wrong. That’s when I realized I really didn’t know shit
I just got accepted into the IBEW today, I honestly didn't think I'd get in but , very excited to start! Your videos are a big motivator to helping me realize the beauty of electrical work
Appreciate your videos man. I’m new to the electrical field. I was a electronics technician for a year and went to school prior for electronics (2 year degree). I have just recently started as an electrician at a water plant in my home town. I have decent understanding of electrical theory and some knowledge of residential electrical but I’m quickly learning how much I don’t know. I don’t know how I will do because I’m 22 years old too but knowing you started around the same time gives me some confidence because I kinda felt like I was behind ya know. Your channel has been a huge help to me.
Bro me and you are a lot a like! I have over 700 hours of overtime this year so far and I’ve only been doing residential for a little over 2 years! Good video buddy!
Be excited to learn. When I started working on gas turbines in the gas fields out west, I found that most of the guys were there to change filters and calibrate transmitters. They didn't really know how stuff worked. When an inlet air filter cleaning system didn't work, I was told to change out the control board because, "That's usually the problem." Well, two bad boards and $10K later, I called the OEM and they very slowly explained to me how the system was supposed to worked using small words so that I could understand them. I got to a point where whenever I leaned something, I would create a powerpoint for my own notes, convert it to pdf and send it to the rest of the district reps. Eventually, guys started to ask for a copy of my "Information Folder". I'm retired now and I was talking to one of the guys and he told me that the new guys were still getting copies of that folder. Always be excited to learn and do the jobs that others loath to do. Keep up the great videos!
Hey Dustin! I just wanted to let you know that I really appreciate your videos and I appreciate how honest you are. Your advice is great and I always feel like I leave your videos with more confidence in what I'm doing.
I'm 35 and currently in a soul-sucking corporate prison sentence. Just had my interview with the IBEW in mid-October and waiting to hear back. Massive pay cut to start if I get it, but that's okay. I want a useful life skill, my soul, and the ability to earn a lot more money.
I'm in the same boat!!! 40 years old with 19 years bound by the golden handcuffs. I am just over halfway to retirement and I'm throwing in the towel to do something valuable with my life. It'll definitely be worth the sacrifice! Good Luck to You!!!
@@janahbanana81 That's awesome! I've been surprised to see that there are a lot more of us "older" folks entering the trades than I could have imagined. There's no doubt in my mind that this will be an exceptionally rewarding career. Best of luck to you too!
I appreciate ALL of your videos and knowledge, but this has been my favorite. Thank you for being vulnerable and sharing your story. I’m currently an intern working my but off to become an electrician. Thank You for ElectricianU!❤
Thank you for this bro and folks in the comments.. im not that young anymore, and some are older, and youre electricians now haha. Youre doing the thing!! Its motivating and reassuring. Lets do it.
I'm a 1st year and it's still crazy that I'm doing "construction". There's a lot more than installing panels or turning nuts. It's a lot about technique and being good with detail. Also, the education behind it all is somewhat overwhelming at times but like I said I just begun about 8 months ago and I'm still learning how the industry works. Everybody in the trades has their own style of doing things. For anybody just starting off I would advise to read up on your math skills and watch good quality YT videos on how to bend conduit but take lots of notes. Then you will be a bit more confident when the opportunity to use those skills come in play.
honestly, I was taking a chance when I enter this trade, did not have passion nor gave a shit, but it grew on me lol I remember the feeling of completing my first panel, the first time having a clear understanding of circuitry, my first time bending EMT that does not suck XD, it was a slow process, but the feeling of learning was very satisfying.
Hearing the similarities between your story and my own, as I begin in this field, is very encouraging. For me, it's a massive career change later in life, so I doubt my choices all the time. But seeing that where you are now began with similar experiences and personal perspective gives me hope. Thank you.
I've been watching your videos for a while now, and I really enjoy how you explain everything. It's too bad I like the colder weather here in South Dakota, because I would really like to work under you. I'm currently trying to get through the code book so I can get my journeyman's license.
Dustin, as one crazy people to another, as much as I have learned from, and enjoyed, all of your vids, this was the best! When you teach, it is easy to see your passion in it. This, where you just talk about the passion, itself, filled me with joy! I'd give you a big bruh hug if I could! You are doing a great thing, and I hope you keep it up for as long as you still love it, and that you love it for a long time!
Thanks for telling us you story I graduated from school, trade school and having trouble finding work and its stressful. Been doing side jobs but need a solid one. Hoping get something soon here in LA applying everywhere!
I'm a 309A journeyman in Canada, originally I was going to University for sociology and I ended up having a talk with my father who's a computer programmer about my future. I realized sociology wasn't really going to get me anywhere, and I don't really have the attitude to sit in an office all day. I ended up dropping out and getting an apprenticeship with my local company, now 5 years later I am newly licensed and making big bucks!
I like it about 15 minutes and 30 seconds in the video how you said you're the guy asking all the questions. I learned that in math class when I didn't understand something I was the one that went to the teacher and said I don't understand this and I want to and that's cool cuz that's what you did.
I aspired to be a residential electrician in south Texas back in 2003, but the job market for them was scarce; guess it wasn't the season for them. I was finally hired on as an Apprentice for an industrial site, working on control rooms for oil platforms. I annoyed the Journeymen and other Apprentices with my questions, "Why do we need blast suits to open this door?", "Why would this disconnect cause an arch flash, but not this one?", "How does AC benefit over DC for the power grid?" Heck! I was brand new and knew nothing! I seemed to had gotten along much better with the Electrical Engineers because we could have intelligent conversations about Electrical Theory, but I would annoy my Journeyman trainer. A month later, I decided to quit and enroll into the police academy, and I've been a police officer for the past 18 years. However, I still had the "itch" for electrical, so now I do my apprenticeship part-time for residential.
Those rooms are modern day “drawing” rooms used to draw someone into your home to show off your wealth it’s from the antebellum south period in history
Dustin, I love you and your story. I did my Electrical Apprenticeship in the Mid-late 60's. I liked your explanation of your apprenticeship experience, Yep Loved it..
Dustin, great to see you have experience in both residential and commercial (and medium level commercial, not limited to a small strip store building). have you ever done any industrial?
I think I've kind of fucked myself. I skipped the apprenticeship and went the self-teaching route. 6 years of self-study later and I'm working as an industrial electrician. It's a badass job but none of it will ever count towards a journeyman's license. But I'm so involved and the pay is so good I don't think I could step down to apprentice pay rates. I'm conflicted on it. I wish industrial electrical work applied towards job experience for a license. I have to do everything according to NEC code just like a licensed journeyman. It's never made sense to me.
I was a horrible apprentice. I had no mechanical ability, I was neat but slow, didn't do any research on my own, always late, etc. I got laid off twice in my first year but I decided not to quit. By my second year I became useful and worked with some other guys who made me want to learn. Once I got my license my confidence went through the roof.
@@jonathanhughes380 I'm in Connecticut. I went to trade school so some hours got counted toward the required 8,000 hours to take the Journeyman exam. You can earn a max of 2,000 hours a year. After that it's a 2 year wait to be able to take the Master exam. It took me 8 years to hit 8,000 hours. I sat for Master exam 2 months after I was able.
I’ve been doing this for six years in Washington going on 7 next year and finally going to open my service company. I knew so much as an apprentice and as a young journeyman but my biggest mistake was I would just kinda take a step back and be just a worker I was to afraid to take control and now I take control and I show my worth and that help me build the confidence in doing many side jobs and building a clinetal to start my business! All I gotta say to you young apprentice and journeyman don’t be afraid to preach the code and don’t be afraid to speak up if you know something is wrong and can be done better because you will grow ten times faster and be so much more independent! And always treat people with respect doesn’t matter how they are towards you not everyone is meant to be an electrician sometimes we need laborers!!
I heard it’s a much better route to instead apply for an apprenticeship at your local IBEW. They pay for your schooling and you get hands on experience working. At least that’s the route I’m going to take
@@pandaBoxz that’s true but sometimes you never hear a response from them if you apply. It’s always good to try but to each their own. Have success with your future career👍
I feel you on the corporate world... that is why I changed and became a developer. Work from home on my own time. Got lucky and my direct management are cool and easy to get along.
New sub here. @15:36 I’m a bit relieved ( also, a bit concerned ). I’ve worked for & have dated electricians… never crossed my mind that they didn’t have a clue. I thought they were just giving me the brush off, cause I’m a girl. Also, I’ve cleaned a few of those homes with master bathrooms & closets as big as my house. They can have them. The less I have to maintain, the more freedom I have to enjoy living & learning. Only 2 videos in, & have already learned more about electricity than I have in the last 40 years. Thank you.
Is there such thing as a paperwork electrician? I have been studying the code book for 20 years but being disabled I could never be an apprentice. But it would be really nice to take a test that could verify my knowledge.
Very cool, engaging, interesting story. One of the things that attracted me to this channel is your passion is very clear. I'm only interested in learning how to do some res stuff for myself, not interested in becoming an electrician. You are a master yourself, correct? Keep up the great work!
It's hard to say without knowing where you're at now and what interests you. You said motors which is a broad subject. You could learn small scale by following Arduino projects with little dc stepper motors, or you could try something beefier like a motorized bicycle or scooter. If you're more attracted to theory, then there is endless UA-cam videos about how different motors work (induction, synchronous, universal, etc. etc). I can't recommend any books as I've only been exposed to textbooks in my program (electrical automation). The motors texts were really just dry reference type stuff.
I love the work - really enjoy the schooling. But I'm only making $720 every two weeks and have to stay in my truck, At the jobsite. I get to go home once or twice a month. & Getting the schedule of where I'm supposed to be Supposed to go, After the fact 😐 Impossible when I have to plan down to the cent my fuel and travel
this is so fucking awesome I love this channel! this video is great awesome story thank you very much. I really dig how you say you're 100,000% into something you put all your whole life into it if you're interested in it well enough. I respect that I feel the same way about a few things.
When did you go to school for electrical ? Because in CA you need to be enrolled in CA state approved school to register to get your ET card or electrician trainee Card, before you are allowed to perform work under the supervision of an electrician. or journeyman electrician on Job sites over 500$
I’m about to go into course to become an electrician and what area(eg.commercial , residential) would you recommend for some who is a little introverted ?
I started working with a company. Journeyman always yelled me that I am way too slow and that I should change trades. He told the owner of the company. It has been a few days he has not called me. I dont know what to do. I really love this trade. I was doing all my very best.
@@samsamuel4215 You’ll find the right fit. You’ll also get faster with every project - companies, that have been around for awhile, know this. It’s like he said about the two extremes… but unfortunately, most are there to collect the $ & leave.
@@samsamuel4215 I’d also suggest acting like you’d like to have the job, but you really don’t need it ( I’ve never gotten a job because of how badly I needed one nor how cheaply I’d work ). Study the companies’ online info, & whatever one aligns with you, mimic their company colors, when interviewed. And never undervalue your work. Ask for higher pay, because raises are so damn few & far in between, & most are capped.
I’m thinking about joining a union next year it’s a 5 year program in Texas and go to school once a week currently working for a company installing internet dsl and fiber .
I am an apprentice, IBEW Local 890 South Central Wisconsin. Experience 1 years residential new build homes, 1 year commercial, 6 months of industrial which is what I'm doing currently.
What would be a good wage to ask for as a 2nd year apprentice? I apart of the IEC but I did it through my high school instead of an actual company so when I graduate I’m looking to continue but I don’t know what pay rate to look for
So Dustin didnt go thru an apprenticeship program, either some state run night school or something like Abc or Iec. Just working & reading on his own. Nice 👍🏼
hi, I want to be an electrician and wonder how much money I should expect to make as an apprentice? I live in Canada Ontario and I'm planing to move to the USA latter
I’m getting out of the Army soon, have the opportunity to do some training before I get out, not sure if I should go union or not when I get out. Any tips or advice would be appreciated
I was an electrical apprentice for one day, went to go work for a company that installed fire alarms and was nervous as fuck. Drilled holes in the wrong places, fucked up bending conduit, and almsot burned up a box and got told to get the fuck off the job site by the foreman lol.
Sounds like me.. as a hvac apprentice that likes taking my time and going slow to do a job right, my teacher likes to yell out “Dude! Come on, lm not getting any younger!” 😂
Hey guys, I’m 28 years old and decided I no longer want the corporate desk life, so I moved in the direction of wanting to gain a skill and I’m pursuing an Electrical apprenticeship. Is there anything adult apprentices should know about how the experience will be different for them? Is it disadvantageous in any way for an adult trying to break in?
Im in the aame boat, and im the second person in my class to already have a job, and thats without any connections. I applied everywhere and several places said "that's a good thing" when i said i was 30 and they saw all my random completely unrelated work experience. They already know that you'ce been trained before and have life experience. You are first priority for "dumb apprentice" lol
on my first rough end of a house I was sweeping up towards the end of the day the plumber was there he was like I've never seen electrician pick up a broom our journeyman kind of jokes saying like yeah he's new he'll pick up eventually
I'm 19 doing electrical school and I'm finishing in October going to be 20. Any recommendations on looking for industrial,resi or commercial. And any advice just to look into apprenticeship?
Did you hear the story of the old bull and young bull? They were on top of a hill with lots of cows at the bottom. The young bull was bouncing saying "lets run down and *have fun* with a cow" all excited. The old bull turns to the young bull and says "why not walk down the hill and *have fun* with them all".
Thanks for the video you remind me of myself a lot I go 100% too and I'm obsessive with the studying as well I remember when you the video on books you recommend and one of them was electricity 1-7 I have that book as well as several others I have a question about your apprenticeship did you do any formal training or education or was that all on your own and then you got your journey when you got how many hours was required by your state and then took the journeyman test
I just got a job as a electrician but my fear of falling of ladders and having nothing to lean/support myself on is really screwing with me hard,plus I work slowly cause I try to do everything very neat and correct but they clearly think I’m taking way to long any advice
I’m one of the slower apprentices at my company, but anytime the foreman needs something done, he chooses me over the other apprentices because he knows it will be done right. If I don’t understand something, I will ask him a question. I’m up front and tell them why I’m taking so long, what I’m struggling with and ask for advice and help to improve my efficiency. As far as being afraid of heights I guess just try anything that can improve your balance, skateboarding, jump roping, something like that.
Nothing helps the fear of falling other than time doing it. I spent years at the start being scared of 12ft ladders until I finally simply got over the fear. What helps me a lot is saying “well it’s got to get done, and if I don’t do it, who will?” The answer is always “someone who’ll take my job from me” and then I go on up that ladder and get the shit done.
You can overcome your fears by repeating to yourself the opposite of what your brain is telling you. Also, doing balance exercises, will build confidence & lessen your fear.
Dumb question, can I just get a job with an electrician working for them with no experience? I really want to get into this trade. I love working with my hands around the house and I realize I went into the wrong field. I am a nurse and want out of healthcare so bad! But I am afraid I would take a huge pay cut if I do.
Dustin, love your videos and ti has helped me with projects but most electricians don't need to be doing Low Voltage installs (Network, Security, AV, etc.) because it's a separate trade altogether.
Being paid as an apprentice wow that wld have been a great concept maybe I cld have stayed with the trade but I had to support myself and a family 1st. Lol when you wld say ya ya ya I remember mine was I know I know boy I knew a lot but never the rightway it seemed lol
![Lp. Сердце Вселенной #60 РОЖДЕНИЕ ЛОЛОЛОШКИ [Финал] • Майнкрафт](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/YoR0pAV9FVQ/mqdefault.jpg)
I think that’s what everyone did. We were just so excited to DO ALL THE THINGS!!! When everyone was telling us to slow down. But there is no slowing down when we WANT to learn.
100% I’m in IT & getting my first real gig I was like a kid in a candy store. Decades later, it’s still exciting - can’t get enough.
Cheers!
Right!!!!
After one year as an apprentice, there have been some really great days and really shit days. For me the hardest part is not knowing if I’m working for the right company, and if it would be any better elsewhere. I was hoping there would be more direction and teaching involved but some days it just feels like another job. If I want to learn anything it’s up to me to go home and do the research and that’s what I’m doing but I’m truly jealous of anyone able to work under someone with any sort of passion or mastery.. and most the other guys I work with are simply there for a paycheck and nothing more, so I have to occasionally remind myself why I’m here. It’s a journey.
Dustin, you seem like a kindred spirit! I was eager and curious throughout my entire apprenticeship, at times to a fault. I was obsessed with being a "real" electrician. I got my JW in 4 years and my masters license a year after that. It's been two years now and I have my own little service company in a busy tourist town. We're turning profit and have a great reputation. In my case, I did it on less than 10 years, but I'm crazy.
How much profit?
@@Shrampion enough to call it profit! :)
@@Shrampion meaning everyone’s bills are paid and then some, and there’s still more left over to the owner to do whatever he pleases with and it won’t hurt. Or at least that’s what I consider profit at minimum.
@@tyd3407lol that’s literally what profit is by definition
Been a young black apprentice , trying to learn and work hard can be tuff … but iknow one day I will be a good electrician!!!
You made it yet?
What does being black have to do with it
@@raulbacchus3525lol I really hope nothing because I’m black and planning on starting an apprenticeship
What does being black have to to with it? I’m a white electrician whoopty do
Being an electrician, you really get to see how the 1% lives.
@Freedom1775 lol it is. You get a glimpse of the lifestyle of these filthy rich people, all the while knowing no matter how hard you work you will never achieve a fraction of that life style
@@The_Ladder_Perspective that service pays your fucking bills. Stay humble.
Audio video technicians do aswell
@@Tre16 pays my bills but can't get me a house because the us wants to become a renters society for some fucking reason no hate on the trade just on our country.
@@jsb7546 the US wants to be a renters society because when you don’t own something, you have to keep paying for it = $$$
For me being an apprentice the best feeling is when whoever my lead guy for the day is trust me to do stuff by myself and not check my work because of the established trust of my work being done right
I love it when I get to meet people who have this kind of passion for something. I also was super curious and asked a ton of questions, and it really helps you learn when you find someone just as passionate about something as you are.
I actually started my apprenticeship at 43 so I'm two years into it now. I'm still not quite able to quit my soul sucking 1st job which I've been at for almost 19 years so I'm working around 80 hours a week. I was (still am some days) worried that I'll get burnt out, but so far my passion to learn has overcome that. Is it tough? Fuck yeah it is, but it's absolutely worth it. I love what I'm doing and I love learning a new trade from almost scratch.
Props to you sir
What trade did you go into? How many years do you think it'll take to make what you make at your first job?
What Trade are you working in?
I'm 40
taking my GED classes to start as a apprentice at ibew Sd Ca .after working for 22 year's as parts counter
Congratulations
One of the few jobs you have to be as tuff as you are smart. Nice trip down memory lane. Those stories reminded me a lot of my apprenticeship. Wow that takes me back. Great video
I'm 22 and 1 month into IBEW apprenticeship Local 369 and I love it. Doing all kinds of different stuff from conduit saddles, offsets, and 90s, pulling wire, making up joints, running MC, can lights etc etc. Love using tools and making something and its cool to see the progress of the job as more and more gets built and put together.
Consider yourself blessed. IBEW 716 here, and I wasn't allowed to do anything except what I was told (which was rarely electrical work) like sweeping, cleaning, digging, moving rigid across the jobsite, throwing direct bury over my shoulder and following the train, picking up heavy stuff, standing on stuff to act as a human vice grip... And getting told there's no time for me to play with my tools when I was eager to try it myself. I had to drive 84 miles each way to take a job nobody else wanted to go to just to get any kind of experience, after 2.5 years as an apprentice
I'm 35 and 4 months into an electrical apprenticeship. The pay cut is tough but the hardest thing I've found is starting back at the bottom of the ladder. I was good at my old job and had worked up the rungs about as far as I could before making the switch. Now it's all about being humble and open to learning and in some cases re-learning.
What was said about racing around trying to impress and get the job done asap is true 😅 Thats another thing I'm still learning to tame down.
No regrets though. With the renewables boom kicking off I see nothing but good times ahead for sparkies!
I'm 35 as well and about to start my apprenticeship in January. Giving up $30/hour (not great) white collar soul-sucking job for $18/hour and starting at the bottom like you said. I couldn't be happier or more excited. In 4 years time, it'll be more than worth the switch.
Yea brother I’m 34 and just passed my electrical exam. Good thing is I’m in a union already and just gonna jump from one job posting to another (for a pay raise).never to late to learn, besides 35 is still young. Good luck
It's not about being humble, its about willing to be exploited. Everyone deserves a living wage. I've had journeymen say "I wouldn't work construction even as a first year without at least 30 bucks an hour"
I’m 31 and just switched careers. I started my apprenticeship in January and these videos along with DIY experience have helped prepare me immensely for this job. This is the best job I’ve ever had and I’ve fallen in love with this trade.
I'm 38 and just made it to journeyman last year. Dont't give up man. I know first hand how hard it is to start over at the bottom of the ladder. You'll go through wierd challenges 2 years in people will assume you have been doing this all your life and expectations accordingly.... I had to learn so much off the cuff... I made it through the toughest years and now I can look forward to a great career where I am greatly valued as an asset insteaf of scraping by. Seriously, I do wish you the best!
My 1st year I did nothing but remodel work in an office building. I was so proud of myself that I knew how to run mc, strap it properly so it would pass inspection, trim out plugs and switches. I thought I was well on my way to becoming an expert sparky. But for like 6 months every switch I trimmed out had an old school switch loop to it. So the 1st time I had power feeding through the switch box, of course I hooked up the white to 1 terminal and black to the other just like I always had and couldn’t understand why the breaker was tripping. I got laughed at by the other apprentices and my butt chewed out by my JW for hooking up the switch wrong. That’s when I realized I really didn’t know shit
I just got accepted into the IBEW today, I honestly didn't think I'd get in but , very excited to start! Your videos are a big motivator to helping me realize the beauty of electrical work
Appreciate your videos man. I’m new to the electrical field. I was a electronics technician for a year and went to school prior for electronics (2 year degree). I have just recently started as an electrician at a water plant in my home town. I have decent understanding of electrical theory and some knowledge of residential electrical but I’m quickly learning how much I don’t know. I don’t know how I will do because I’m 22 years old too but knowing you started around the same time gives me some confidence because I kinda felt like I was behind ya know. Your channel has been a huge help to me.
Bro me and you are a lot a like! I have over 700 hours of overtime this year so far and I’ve only been doing residential for a little over 2 years! Good video buddy!
Brace yourself: 700 hrs of OT is gonna put you in the highest of tax brackets.
@@sunshine3914 hes makin bags who cares 😂
Be excited to learn. When I started working on gas turbines in the gas fields out west, I found that most of the guys were there to change filters and calibrate transmitters. They didn't really know how stuff worked. When an inlet air filter cleaning system didn't work, I was told to change out the control board because, "That's usually the problem." Well, two bad boards and $10K later, I called the OEM and they very slowly explained to me how the system was supposed to worked using small words so that I could understand them. I got to a point where whenever I leaned something, I would create a powerpoint for my own notes, convert it to pdf and send it to the rest of the district reps. Eventually, guys started to ask for a copy of my "Information Folder". I'm retired now and I was talking to one of the guys and he told me that the new guys were still getting copies of that folder. Always be excited to learn and do the jobs that others loath to do. Keep up the great videos!
Hey Dustin!
I just wanted to let you know that I really appreciate your videos and I appreciate how honest you are. Your advice is great and I always feel like I leave your videos with more confidence in what I'm doing.
I'm 35 and currently in a soul-sucking corporate prison sentence. Just had my interview with the IBEW in mid-October and waiting to hear back. Massive pay cut to start if I get it, but that's okay. I want a useful life skill, my soul, and the ability to earn a lot more money.
I'm in the same boat!!! 40 years old with 19 years bound by the golden handcuffs. I am just over halfway to retirement and I'm throwing in the towel to do something valuable with my life. It'll definitely be worth the sacrifice! Good Luck to You!!!
@@janahbanana81 That's awesome! I've been surprised to see that there are a lot more of us "older" folks entering the trades than I could have imagined. There's no doubt in my mind that this will be an exceptionally rewarding career.
Best of luck to you too!
Its just money....... Nothing cost more than your happiness
@@TATTOOFREAK937 Thank you for that!
I left plumbing to do electrical and the industrial side of electrical has beat my body down.
I appreciate ALL of your videos and knowledge, but this has been my favorite. Thank you for being vulnerable and sharing your story. I’m currently an intern working my but off to become an electrician. Thank You for ElectricianU!❤
I’m glad you posted this. It’ll give me a better understanding as to what I’ll be getting into
That’s what I’m here for too my boy good luck soldier
Man - you make it sound SO FUN! But I know it was a hell of a lot of hard work. Congrats on finding something you love so much. Many don't.
Thank you for this bro and folks in the comments.. im not that young anymore, and some are older, and youre electricians now haha. Youre doing the thing!! Its motivating and reassuring. Lets do it.
I'm a 1st year and it's still crazy that I'm doing "construction". There's a lot more than installing panels or turning nuts. It's a lot about technique and being good with detail. Also, the education behind it all is somewhat overwhelming at times but like I said I just begun about 8 months ago and I'm still learning how the industry works. Everybody in the trades has their own style of doing things. For anybody just starting off I would advise to read up on your math skills and watch good quality YT videos on how to bend conduit but take lots of notes. Then you will be a bit more confident when the opportunity to use those skills come in play.
honestly, I was taking a chance when I enter this trade, did not have passion nor gave a shit, but it grew on me lol I remember the feeling of completing my first panel, the first time having a clear understanding of circuitry, my first time bending EMT that does not suck XD, it was a slow process, but the feeling of learning was very satisfying.
Hearing the similarities between your story and my own, as I begin in this field, is very encouraging. For me, it's a massive career change later in life, so I doubt my choices all the time. But seeing that where you are now began with similar experiences and personal perspective gives me hope. Thank you.
Little Dustin in this video: "Dude I don't know shit about being an electrician." 😂
I've been watching your videos for a while now, and I really enjoy how you explain everything. It's too bad I like the colder weather here in South Dakota, because I would really like to work under you. I'm currently trying to get through the code book so I can get my journeyman's license.
Holy smokes!! This is so awesome, started playing this and see my comment pop up right away. So honored brother!!
I'm so in awe of you. This was fascinating. Thank you 😊
6:19 that was so on the nose and so uncannily similar to my current apprentice self
Dustin, as one crazy people to another, as much as I have learned from, and enjoyed, all of your vids, this was the best! When you teach, it is easy to see your passion in it. This, where you just talk about the passion, itself, filled me with joy! I'd give you a big bruh hug if I could! You are doing a great thing, and I hope you keep it up for as long as you still love it, and that you love it for a long time!
Thanks for telling us you story I graduated from school, trade school and having trouble finding work and its stressful. Been doing side jobs but need a solid one. Hoping get something soon here in LA applying everywhere!
Your**
I'm a 309A journeyman in Canada, originally I was going to University for sociology and I ended up having a talk with my father who's a computer programmer about my future. I realized sociology wasn't really going to get me anywhere, and I don't really have the attitude to sit in an office all day. I ended up dropping out and getting an apprenticeship with my local company, now 5 years later I am newly licensed and making big bucks!
This is super helpful and really relatable, thank you for posting ⚡️🤙
Cool story bro. Thx for sharing and encouraging the rest of us.
I like it about 15 minutes and 30 seconds in the video how you said you're the guy asking all the questions. I learned that in math class when I didn't understand something I was the one that went to the teacher and said I don't understand this and I want to and that's cool cuz that's what you did.
I aspired to be a residential electrician in south Texas back in 2003, but the job market for them was scarce; guess it wasn't the season for them. I was finally hired on as an Apprentice for an industrial site, working on control rooms for oil platforms. I annoyed the Journeymen and other Apprentices with my questions, "Why do we need blast suits to open this door?", "Why would this disconnect cause an arch flash, but not this one?", "How does AC benefit over DC for the power grid?" Heck! I was brand new and knew nothing! I seemed to had gotten along much better with the Electrical Engineers because we could have intelligent conversations about Electrical Theory, but I would annoy my Journeyman trainer. A month later, I decided to quit and enroll into the police academy, and I've been a police officer for the past 18 years. However, I still had the "itch" for electrical, so now I do my apprenticeship part-time for residential.
Those rooms are modern day “drawing” rooms used to draw someone into your home to show off your wealth it’s from the antebellum south period in history
Dustin, I love you and your story. I did my Electrical Apprenticeship in the Mid-late 60's. I liked your explanation of your apprenticeship experience, Yep Loved it..
Dustin, great to see you have experience in both residential and commercial (and medium level commercial, not limited to a small strip store building). have you ever done any industrial?
I think I've kind of fucked myself. I skipped the apprenticeship and went the self-teaching route. 6 years of self-study later and I'm working as an industrial electrician. It's a badass job but none of it will ever count towards a journeyman's license. But I'm so involved and the pay is so good I don't think I could step down to apprentice pay rates. I'm conflicted on it. I wish industrial electrical work applied towards job experience for a license. I have to do everything according to NEC code just like a licensed journeyman. It's never made sense to me.
Wait what? You’re employer doesn’t have a C10 license, and you can’t apply for your et card ? Also, what is your pay rate, if you don’t mind me asking
What state? I don't think it's like that everywhere.
@@BASEDinMaine I’m very confused by this as well.
I was a horrible apprentice. I had no mechanical ability, I was neat but slow, didn't do any research on my own, always late, etc.
I got laid off twice in my first year but I decided not to quit. By my second year I became useful and worked with some other guys who made me want to learn. Once I got my license my confidence went through the roof.
Shit I wish people would give me that much opportunity here in Miami.
@@juliostevens9480 Try field force. They contract work all over the us for apprentices journeymen, millwrights, general laborers etc.
@@juliostevens9480 opportunity is there, find it!
How many hours did you have to work before the state would give you your license? and what State?
@@jonathanhughes380 I'm in Connecticut. I went to trade school so some hours got counted toward the required 8,000 hours to take the Journeyman exam. You can earn a max of 2,000 hours a year. After that it's a 2 year wait to be able to take the Master exam.
It took me 8 years to hit 8,000 hours. I sat for Master exam 2 months after I was able.
I’ve been doing this for six years in Washington going on 7 next year and finally going to open my service company. I knew so much as an apprentice and as a young journeyman but my biggest mistake was I would just kinda take a step back and be just a worker I was to afraid to take control and now I take control and I show my worth and that help me build the confidence in doing many side jobs and building a clinetal to start my business! All
I gotta say to you young apprentice and journeyman don’t be afraid to preach the code and don’t be afraid to speak up if you know something is wrong and can be done better because you will grow ten times faster and be so much more independent! And always treat people with respect doesn’t matter how they are towards you not everyone is meant to be an electrician sometimes we need laborers!!
It’s so nice to hear this lol. I’m going to trade school to be an electrician in January👍
I heard it’s a much better route to instead apply for an apprenticeship at your local IBEW. They pay for your schooling and you get hands on experience working. At least that’s the route I’m going to take
@@pandaBoxz that’s true but sometimes you never hear a response from them if you apply. It’s always good to try but to each their own. Have success with your future career👍
I feel you on the corporate world... that is why I changed and became a developer. Work from home on my own time. Got lucky and my direct management are cool and easy to get along.
Hey brother long time fan here , can you maybe talk about fire protection like fire pads, fire caulking and when to use them . Thanks brotha
Thank you for sharing your experience and knowledge
New sub here. @15:36 I’m a bit relieved ( also, a bit concerned ). I’ve worked for & have dated electricians… never crossed my mind that they didn’t have a clue. I thought they were just giving me the brush off, cause I’m a girl.
Also, I’ve cleaned a few of those homes with master bathrooms & closets as big as my house. They can have them. The less I have to maintain, the more freedom I have to enjoy living & learning.
Only 2 videos in, & have already learned more about electricity than I have in the last 40 years. Thank you.
Thank you for sharing your experience
Good job on this explanation of your past as an apprentice. =D
Is there such thing as a paperwork electrician? I have been studying the code book for 20 years but being disabled I could never be an apprentice. But it would be really nice to take a test that could verify my knowledge.
Drafting blueprints, maybe?
Review electrical permit applications?
Very cool, engaging, interesting story. One of the things that attracted me to this channel is your passion is very clear. I'm only interested in learning how to do some res stuff for myself, not interested in becoming an electrician. You are a master yourself, correct? Keep up the great work!
Probably your BEST VIDEO EVER!!!
anyone have any recommendations on any books on electric motors or soemthing like that ? i’m looking to expand my knowledge thanks
It's hard to say without knowing where you're at now and what interests you. You said motors which is a broad subject.
You could learn small scale by following Arduino projects with little dc stepper motors, or you could try something beefier like a motorized bicycle or scooter.
If you're more attracted to theory, then there is endless UA-cam videos about how different motors work (induction, synchronous, universal, etc. etc).
I can't recommend any books as I've only been exposed to textbooks in my program (electrical automation). The motors texts were really just dry reference type stuff.
That sounds like the best company ever to do your apprenticeship!
living in the Keys also being electrician down there you see some very magnificent homes on the ocean
Thanks for sharing your story. Much appreciated.
Thank you for the videos. They do help. Awesome Jod!! 😃👍
I love the work - really enjoy the schooling.
But I'm only making $720 every two weeks and have to stay in my truck,
At the jobsite.
I get to go home once or twice a month.
& Getting the schedule of where I'm supposed to be
Supposed to go,
After the fact 😐
Impossible when I have to plan down to the cent my fuel and travel
Kick ass. More insulated tools please.
this is so fucking awesome I love this channel! this video is great awesome story thank you very much. I really dig how you say you're 100,000% into something you put all your whole life into it if you're interested in it well enough. I respect that I feel the same way about a few things.
Looking to change careers into electrician, but I’m 42. Currently IT, but just burnt out from office work. In your opinion, would it be worth it?
That was Great… Absolutely loved it, Many laugh’s 😂🤣🥳
When did you go to school for electrical ? Because in CA you need to be enrolled in CA state approved school to register to get your ET card or electrician trainee Card, before you are allowed to perform work under the supervision of an electrician. or journeyman electrician on Job sites over 500$
I’m about to go into course to become an electrician and what area(eg.commercial , residential) would you recommend for some who is a little introverted ?
I started working with a company. Journeyman always yelled me that I am way too slow and that I should change trades.
He told the owner of the company. It has been a few days he has not called me.
I dont know what to do. I really love this trade. I was doing all my very best.
Find another company, figure out what skills of yours are lacking and work in it at home if you can
Companies are always looking for people. Find someone else to work for that values your WANT to be there everyday
@@10jonchannel The problem is that I am new. I have little to no experience. I accepted minimum wage payments. Anytime I was called I showed up...
@@samsamuel4215 You’ll find the right fit. You’ll also get faster with every project - companies, that have been around for awhile, know this.
It’s like he said about the two extremes… but unfortunately, most are there to collect the $ & leave.
@@samsamuel4215 I’d also suggest acting like you’d like to have the job, but you really don’t need it ( I’ve never gotten a job because of how badly I needed one nor how cheaply I’d work ). Study the companies’ online info, & whatever one aligns with you, mimic their company colors, when interviewed. And never undervalue your work. Ask for higher pay, because raises are so damn few & far in between, & most are capped.
I’m thinking about joining a union next year it’s a 5 year program in Texas and go to school once a week currently working for a company installing internet dsl and fiber .
How long did it take to get your journeyman’s license? When you got it do you wish to would’ve waited longer to get it?
I am an apprentice, IBEW Local 890 South Central Wisconsin. Experience 1 years residential new build homes, 1 year commercial, 6 months of industrial which is what I'm doing currently.
What would be a good wage to ask for as a 2nd year apprentice? I apart of the IEC but I did it through my high school instead of an actual company so when I graduate I’m looking to continue but I don’t know what pay rate to look for
So Dustin didnt go thru an apprenticeship program, either some state run night school or something like Abc or Iec. Just working & reading on his own. Nice 👍🏼
That is the truth I will agree on 90% of the points.
hi, I want to be an electrician and wonder how much money I should expect to make as an apprentice? I live in Canada Ontario and I'm planing to move to the USA latter
I’m getting out of the Army soon, have the opportunity to do some training before I get out, not sure if I should go union or not when I get out. Any tips or advice would be appreciated
I was an electrical apprentice for one day, went to go work for a company that installed fire alarms and was nervous as fuck. Drilled holes in the wrong places, fucked up bending conduit, and almsot burned up a box and got told to get the fuck off the job site by the foreman lol.
Sounds like me.. as a hvac apprentice that likes taking my time and going slow to do a job right, my teacher likes to yell out “Dude! Come on, lm not getting any younger!” 😂
Hey guys, I’m 28 years old and decided I no longer want the corporate desk life, so I moved in the direction of wanting to gain a skill and I’m pursuing an Electrical apprenticeship.
Is there anything adult apprentices should know about how the experience will be different for them?
Is it disadvantageous in any way for an adult trying to break in?
Im in the aame boat, and im the second person in my class to already have a job, and thats without any connections. I applied everywhere and several places said "that's a good thing" when i said i was 30 and they saw all my random completely unrelated work experience. They already know that you'ce been trained before and have life experience. You are first priority for "dumb apprentice" lol
Do you wakeboard on a boat or a cable park
on my first rough end of a house I was sweeping up towards the end of the day the plumber was there he was like I've never seen electrician pick up a broom our journeyman kind of jokes saying like yeah he's new he'll pick up eventually
I'm 19 doing electrical school and I'm finishing in October going to be 20. Any recommendations on looking for industrial,resi or commercial. And any advice just to look into apprenticeship?
Residential/commercial is the best start
Did you hear the story of the old bull and young bull? They were on top of a hill with lots of cows at the bottom. The young bull was bouncing saying "lets run down and *have fun* with a cow" all excited. The old bull turns to the young bull and says "why not walk down the hill and *have fun* with them all".
Dude this content is S tier 3:25
Thanks for the video you remind me of myself a lot I go 100% too and I'm obsessive with the studying as well I remember when you the video on books you recommend and one of them was electricity 1-7 I have that book as well as several others I have a question about your apprenticeship did you do any formal training or education or was that all on your own and then you got your journey when you got how many hours was required by your state and then took the journeyman test
Love your story bro
I just got a job as a electrician but my fear of falling of ladders and having nothing to lean/support myself on is really screwing with me hard,plus I work slowly cause I try to do everything very neat and correct but they clearly think I’m taking way to long any advice
I’m one of the slower apprentices at my company, but anytime the foreman needs something done, he chooses me over the other apprentices because he knows it will be done right. If I don’t understand something, I will ask him a question. I’m up front and tell them why I’m taking so long, what I’m struggling with and ask for advice and help to improve my efficiency. As far as being afraid of heights I guess just try anything that can improve your balance, skateboarding, jump roping, something like that.
Nothing helps the fear of falling other than time doing it. I spent years at the start being scared of 12ft ladders until I finally simply got over the fear. What helps me a lot is saying “well it’s got to get done, and if I don’t do it, who will?” The answer is always “someone who’ll take my job from me” and then I go on up that ladder and get the shit done.
You can overcome your fears by repeating to yourself the opposite of what your brain is telling you. Also, doing balance exercises, will build confidence & lessen your fear.
Thanks for the awesome story
Dumb question, can I just get a job with an electrician working for them with no experience? I really want to get into this trade. I love working with my hands around the house and I realize I went into the wrong field. I am a nurse and want out of healthcare so bad! But I am afraid I would take a huge pay cut if I do.
You are a true American entrepreneur!
This video would be awesome for any teenagers that don't know what they want to do with their life.
I applied at my local IBEW a few months ago and haven't heard anything /:
Have you looked into the IEC ?
At a young age, I would try and get on with a traveling matter project electrical construction company and see the US
...
Love it!
Ideal commercial at the start…. Big time now dude
Dude lol This reminds me of me 😂
Dude that’s crazy both our apprenticeships are a mirror imagines of each other like wtf 🤣🤣🤣
Dustin, love your videos and ti has helped me with projects but most electricians don't need to be doing Low Voltage installs (Network, Security, AV, etc.) because it's a separate trade altogether.
Hey Dustin. Do you sing? You have the same voice as Corey Taylor
Being paid as an apprentice wow that wld have been a great concept maybe I cld have stayed with the trade but I had to support myself and a family 1st.
Lol when you wld say ya ya ya I remember mine was I know I know boy I knew a lot but never the rightway it seemed lol
This guy is so funny 🤣
Nice.