Guy who hired me today just said that. Couldn't agree less. I'm coming over from the Mason's union (concrete/bricklayer) too since 2017 after high school. I'm gonna conquer both trades. My cousin on the same route but solar and electrician
Wow! Thanks! I appreciate the love brother. Still going strong and I'll make sure to heed to this advice and keep soaking. Always more to learn and improve on
80's+90's, knew a couple owners that tested the apprentices, one day per week was to relocate a full pallet of 5"× 10' cast iron sticks pipe, from pallet delivered on, to other side of company lot. Also directly back to original place of origin on pallet. Just to see if they truly will stay within this occupation for duration of there life's. 2 within 20 apprentices is the actual range within there staying within this occupation for duration of there life's, remaining 18, just going through the motions. It's not for everyone, it's not glorious, very physically demanding, takes very high endurance to reach 20+ consecutive years.
Dave! Hell ya! I can agree with why the older guys are harder on the new ones. Me choosing this career because I wanted it has made all the difference. Plus I was 30 when I joined. So this is it for me. Through thick and thin. Love hearing your words of wisdom in that story! Appreciate you stopping in!
If you show interest in learning the trade and not just be there for the paycheck, 9 out of 10 times journeymen will be more than willing to teach you. There's always that 1 a-hole in any profession, lol. If you have a good attitude, you will go far, and you have a good attitude. If you're in Oahu Hawaii, let me know. I need good help. Residential plumbing repairs and install. Will provide a work van after 6 months of riding with me and proving you can handle the work and deal with the customers. Mahalo.
Steve! Didn't see this other comment! But me and my wife actually met in Maui! We were living there for about 8 months! This was about 12 years ago:) how cool is that! She is in nursing school to be an RN just one more year to go for her. And thanks for sharing the word on journeyman. You are right! You've gotta want to learn and stay open to new ways! Will let you know if we wanna relocate back to the island life...love Oahu!
Hahaha I mean yes that's quite the direct way to put things. Some journeyman take that saying way to far though! Not all but some. You're not one of "those" guys are you? Thanks for stopping in and sharing some words of wisdom
Great video and how was It when you did your first interview for the union? Did you already happen to know someone in the union prior or just went in with your best leg forward. Me personally I struggle on the interview side but have a strong passion for plumbing and trying to get in. Hope your apprenticeship been going great!
@@brandonsavoie5588 great question. The answer is no I didn't know anyone or anything. Watch some more of my videos for more info and honestly, you gotta show you are gonna stick with it and learn. Also I finished a couple years ago and am now a journeyman:) thanks for the line
How does the training/schooling work? Do you just go to work and learn under a more experienced plumber and then go to school on the weekend to read blueprints?
Great question brother. So as far as on the job training you will be under a journeyman worker for all 5 years in the union. You can have a variety of journeyman and might even stay with one crew bc you click well. So that varies. But for the union school we go twice a week for 3 hours for 5 years. (Normal school year. Summers off) You'll learn blueprints on the job depending on what company you are placed with. A lot of prints are on an ipad now. So you'll learn all the ins and outs on the job and at school. Hardest thing I've noticed for everyone is staying focused and motivated to stay in school. But so worth it.
Good! These videos will probably shed some.light on your new adventure. Watch the one I did with my brother who started 4 months ago! Thanks for sharing. Feel.free to ask any questions
Love it! I had zero experience and I now I know a few things! So you will perfectly fine! Go in knowing nothing it's actually a lot better for the JM. You are gonna take a lot of orders so just say okay and ask and speak up if you don't know something! But truly just say yes no problem to all their requests unless it's just stupid. But your job is to learn everything you touch. But give yourself time! It's about the long haul! Keep us posted! Well done! You sound just like me. Had zero experience and was put on commercial! It's the best mate
@@JoonRhee Thanks! Yeah I will just show up on time with a good attitude and pay attention. I have a lot of work experience in another industry so I know how to be a good employee.
@@kurtisjames1592 the good attitude is good! But beyond that it will make your life a lot easier when someone is teaching you...and you just say okay or just yes. And trust me you will not want to say it;) haha just listen to the info not how someone is saying it. Trust me. You'll know what I'm talking about in about 3 months
Just a word of advice, always ream your pipe. Gas line, rigid water line and even PVC DWV. I am always amazed at plumbers either 1), were not taught to ream their pipe or 2), just don't care and pass that poor workmanship on to others. Have fun, and the best is yet to come!
Always ream baby! I'm very glad I've been taught by very good hands in this trade;) thanks for posting brother and for sharing a good word! Can't wait for the future. More than half way now
I quit my apprenticeship cause the journeyman I was with was a dumbass. He didn’t read the blueprints or anything. He messed up so much stuff and I asked to be moved with a different journeyman but the couldn’t cause they were tight on personnel. I was making 12 an hour. I have an opportunity for another apprenticeship they’ll pay 17 an hour and are willing to teach me. Im excited
That really fucking sucks! And honestly you are not the only one. Ive had my fair share of shit head journeyman and it's not easy. I was like "not gonna listen to this guy" and went on trying to figure it out myself. Anyway, good for you on finding that opportunity and hope the best for you. Keep me posted!
same here man... i need 8000 hours to get my license and im 3500 hours in but i just quit my job at a small firm cause i COULD NOT put up with my journeyman. He scammed customers, had no ambition, and barely wanted to talk about plumbing. im so bumbed out rn. spent 30,000$ and a year of schooling and now i think im going to quit the trades as a whole.. 3rd time finding a old guy who should literally be in prison.. so mentally draining
@@joshua-pu2os hey man there are great manufacturing jobs that are hurting for people. I make 60k a year and I get a bonus with great benefits. Boring job but decent pay and benefits
Wow how things have changed. When I was a first year apprentice. I was thrown into the fire immediately. ! year in Iwas roughing full bathrooms. That had to be inspected.
That's a pretty fair expectation out of a 1st year but the times have changed. Now, you'll be lucky if you ever get to glue anything in your 1st year let alone left alone to rough in a bathroom. I was doing venting, radon pipe, running pex lines all by the end of my first year. From what I hear, guys today don't start doing that until their 2nd/3rd year. Guess it depends on the person whether or not getting thrown into the fire is better. Some people have 'it' more than others. I see that now that I'm on the other side.
@@losferwords100 Wow. yeah granted this was over 15 years ago. But, I was a little surprised at how elementary they start alot of these kids out now. Not sure if it is good or bad. At the time it could be alot of pressure but, On the other hand I got experienced and good fast. And able to get me out on my own fast as possible.
Hopefully you see this and can reply but, I take my union test on the 13th. I’m pretty green when it comes to construction, (i can read a tape then measure and cut wood but that’s about it). Do you actually learn everything or do the journeyman just expect u to know everything
@@xeeding-_- congrats on getting the test. Try to focus on getting in and getting a job first. Don't worry about being green we actually prefer that. You will get hazed and razzed bc that's just the environment. But don't take it personal. And no you are not expected to know jack shit. Just be a yes man and do whatever the journey worker requests...(Within the work boundaries) You need to learn what to do and what not to do. So knowing really nothing is a mindset to keep in mind through your first three or four years. Keep me.posted!
I got in. Found the test fairly easy and i’m ranked #3 among the other plumbing apprentices on the waitlist. Now im sitting on the bench waiting to get dispatched.
@@xeeding-_- way to go! Love to hear it! And just know you gotta work hard and stick it out. How the career building starts. Your name is what gets passed around. Congrats
@@SILLY_BILLY_777 great question!!!! So I was super fortunate to have been hired as a helper for the company I actually still work for and than a month later accepted into the program. Though I did score quite high in all categories which helped. And I was hired within a week of applying. thanks for dropping a line
@@JoonRhee Thanks for replying, I have a couple more for ya. How did the pay work? Did it go up the moment you got into the program or was that something that took longer?
@@SILLY_BILLY_777 not a problem! And yes from helper wages you start the 5 year program. And we get raises every year...which amounted to a little over $4ish an hour a year and the big jump was 5th year to JM which ends up being around $8 plus an hour. So every program is different but mostly it's yearly raises plus the union package raise (cost of living) which is about $2ish depending on your bargaining agreement
@@JoonRhee That's awesome man, thanks for the information. I'm planning on applying next year, I'm very mechanically inclined and I can't stand sitting at a desk typing all day (my current job is that). I figure you can do a lot more good for people actually building and repairing their stuff than sitting at a desk all day, the work is hard, but honestly I'm so sedentary it'd probably do me well lol
@@SILLY_BILLY_777 Glad I could help. In all reality. I know it's not easy to work a job that is not fulfilling. I don't think the trades are necessarily the answer to your quest. But I believe the trades offer not only a wonderful career opportunity, but it also presents the opportunity to become a better person to find out what you're made of and you can find a lot of answers in this field. But I look back and it's not easy. It's also something you really have to fight for and you have to be willing to sacrifice. Is it enjoyable to help people? Sure, I wouldn't say that's what my motivation was. Especially since you're in commercial or I'm in commercial. I don't have that direct correlation of seeing the effects. But I also know that I have been a part of the larger picture of building hospitals and servicing hospitals which therefore in turn hopefully benefit humanity. But that's really not what matters to me. The larger picture for me was having a adequate lifestyle that afforded me choices so that's my two cents. But thanks for tuning in
Right on amigo! Depends on how many people you have to go through and are on the waiting list. I only went through one. But our Union wasn't as competitive as others. But I still had to beat out some people. Keep us in the loop. May the plumbing gods be on your side
You know you do. But you gotta make sure it's the right setting. Generally it can be caught in the moment. There is a lot of bullshit that is just part of it you know. But if you are trying your hardest that respect can be seen
So glad to hear! You know it kind of varies of what's expected. It can vary depending on what the job needs and how large it is. I'll make a video this coming week explaining more of what I've seen. But the best thing you can do, show up 10 min early everyday to work, be ready with your tools, listen, ask good questions, and anticipate what it is your journey man might need once you start to get into a work flow and building your knowledge. They don't expect much from a first year I can tell you that:) just being teachable. Good luck!
What did you start first with the apprenticeship, class or straight to a job site? I couldn’t imagine walking on to a job site with not an ounce of knowledge. Sounds like your not doing the work more just learning with your eyes. The union I’m applying for had an online only application I applied, now I have to turn in my transcript paperwork this Monday so these videos have been very helpful bro
@@nickabluh1734 sorry Nick didn't see this in my notification! So first congrats on applying. Like I have mentioned start the first impression asap! Which is hard to do since it's all online. But you could always swing by and make yourself known and want to take a look around. And as far as my experience of being on the job...I was called in to my company before I got accepted into the apprenticeship to be a "helper" and they literally threw me out onto a job site and I was drilling anchors on a 12ft ladder within 10 min of being there. Haha the start time was 4am too! So yes they may not have you do stuff but I would say..."yeah, I've never done that but show me and I'll try" that's the best thing. I'd prefer that a new guy had no experience so I can train him right. Anyway fill me in on your progress.
@@awakenedpennslyvanian5194 howdy! So by doing jobs yourself do you mean like a task such as layout and install? It all really depends on your abilities and how much a journeyman trusts you. But you will always be with a journeyman and can do tasks for them. But being all alone won't happen till your 4th or 5th year. I've done a few things but it all really matters on ones ability. I'll always go over my plan with the journeyman before I begin.
I once cut truss in new home. I looked at my master tin banger and said what do I do he said you have told to many people.i said only you. He put clear caulking and saw dust In 2x4.
Yup! Union all the way! And I got some more videos on those questions but find your local union and see what their website suggests:) have fun brother thanks for stopping in
Oh yes! Weekends are for sure apart of busy season. But that's up to you. I'd say work a ton during your apprenticeship and as you move forward you can rebalance whatever life you'd like to make. And classes for me are either mon and wed. Or tue and thur. And they are 3 hours per night. With some homework. It's awesome to get all the material and have a more in depth understanding. Worth the investment
@@banahyasharahla3239 in my case yes overtime is paid for anything over 8hrs in a day and weekends for sure. Unions have different bylaws on all that and I can't speak for non-union companies. But yes you can't be forced to work over the weekends persay you just may not be offered much OT of you always say no.
No that's a great question! And it depends on what you are wanting to do with your back. But dead lifts, pull ups, dumbbell rows would all hit the back. But you should look at stretching your lower back out with yoga poses. So look up on the world wide web pigeon pose variations. And that will be a life saver!
Great question! And depending if you go non union...they have their own set up. But union will still require you go to school for 5 years twice a week. Residential or commercial. So in my opinion, no you won't learn it all on the job. School for sure refines a lot and gives you a lot more background a reason. Thanks for the question!
I've not heard of that happening bc school is twice per week and you need to gain 7500 hours to take your license test. And they usually want you to have that by your 5th year. If you wanna check it out you can apply through your union to be a "helper" and that's how people usually check it out. But nothing part time from what I understand.
Hey thanks for the question! Did you check out my other videos by chance? Let me know if you don't get your answer and I'll make one for just the pre test. Thanks again!
Hi! Thanks for the question! And no there are no fees that I am aware of for applying. But if there is I'd pay it in a heart beat to just get seen! And we do pay union dues once a month as well:) so there are fees once you are in the union. Thanks for question!
I just got into the local 130 a couple months ago. It costed me about 300 for initiation and another 1300 to start my apprenticeship. That covered my tools and iPad. They don’t use books in school anymore.
I'm a handy man and want go back to more career type work. I've done underground utilities and plumbing experience as far as water heater installation, p trap, cooler and galvanized pipe ect. I dont mind entering as a apprentice and hope through execution I can climb the ladder respectively. Any company's you recommend applying for?
Right in! That's awesome! Kind of depends on what route you would like to enter into. Union or non? And from there I would go through that application process. They might even move you up and year or two payscale wise depending on that experience! So it sounds like you might fit right in with service
...service plumbing and would have to check with your local jurisdiction on who runs the majority of that work. Be it union and non union bc apprenticeships differ and are separate from my understanding. Best of luck!
Is there alot of overtime as a 1st year? Im currently working fulltime at the UAW making 25an hr but was looking for something more reliable, i know ill be taking a paycut starting out but worried about lay offs and lack of overtime, got an interview in a few weeks for my local UA
Great question! What is the UAW by the way? Depends on where you live and what the unions market share is...overtime is per job and what needs to get done schedule wise usually. So it comes and goes. That pay decrease will only be for a year and after that you won't look back:) thanks for comment
@@toasttoast789 oh very nice. Well having that mechanical experience could be a very good thing. And yes I know in the Chicago area the union is hella strong. So, every little bit helps. Score high. Interview well. Fill me in!
Didnt get accepted unfortunantly. Going to stick it out with chrysler for a few years and save some money for a future chance at the apprenticeship. Gunna try for local 190 in annarbor next time
Another great question David. Thanks for asking. During your apprenticeship you are going to be working hopefully full time. I was working full-time plus some overtime maybe every few months. But classes will take up about 6 hours a week, two nights a week. And yeah I'd say you can still get to the gym at least 3 4 times a week. It's not a matter of do you have time? It's a matter of all you making time. Joining the apprenticeship in working full time. It's you know full-time job is what it is. You're going to have to work in life. That's just the fact, so you'll have to cut out things that aren't a priority anymore. That's up to you. That's great question, thanks for asking
@@JoonRhee Thank you for the response! if I may ask one more question, would you say you're financially comfortable after obtaining your journeyman license? Like you don't need to worry about rent or u can eat out more often. I don't plan on getting married or having kids.
I just applied for the union in my location and just want to know if it’s the drug test is urine I currently have a Cdl but been out of work because I was shot 5 times this summer which led me back to my smoking habits because I was bed rested and couldn’t walk for a few months but now I’m back heals and over a month sober
@@dredadon6515 yeah that sounds like a shitty story for sure. Welcome back. And yes, it's a urine test next dropping a line. Hope you find a better situation
Hey Joon. I'm wanting to get my feet into the door, should I start off with doing a pre-apprenticeship course first or find employment for an apprenticeship by working voluntarily as a general laborer to start off for a potential offer? Thanks.
Thanks for stopping in David! I would go with being a plumbers helper! Get in that way. General labor will make it a bit harder I suppose to change. Plus you won't get experience in plumbing but don't let experience count you out. Check out some of the other videos I made to help you out! Thanks for the question!
That's a really good question. I know it's hard to get your foot in the door. But I would call up local contractors. I would show up at their offices if you don't already have a job and let them know you want to get in the field. It's hard to also let people that don't have experience in the field in because they may not last long. So it's a risk on both sides. You know what I'm saying. But I'm sure you can find someone to give you a shot. If you really want it. You'll have to take a pay cut. There's always that chance. I did a massive one. But it paid off
The fuck you need to work 70/80 hour weeks for? You won't find that really anywhere. Unless you wanna be in the oil field. We usually average 45 and in service maybe 50 but depends on the season. Thanks for the question. Don't work too much player!
Great question! You for sure won't be rejected bc of having no experience. As long as you can read a tape measure and really want to learn...you'd be perfect. I didn't have any tools when I started and I had zero experience:)
@@kvn1459 how you doing mate!? I am in America so we use a standard measuring system...well inches and feet. Canada for sure uses the metric system. Anyway thanks for the questions
Howdy partner! So it really does depend on where you are located in the states. Each union has different ranges. But you'll start out at least $18-22 an hour ON the check. And your package total though is $25-30 because of the all your health benefits after 90 days.
@@at5840 Las Vegas actually has a very strong union. Getting in I heard is harder because of that. So I am only assuming here but you would need to score really high on your tests as well as your interview and in order to get higher on the list...become a helper ASAP with a union contractor. Best thing to do is actually go down to the hall. Dress your best and talk to the JATC...
@@at5840 you get paid for the 40 hours you work during the week. And the school is two nights per week for 5 years. And you DO NOT get paid to go to school. It's a normal job just with the expectations you need to be in school
Well, depends on your states demand for plumbers. My state was needing them pretty bad a few years ago. But I also tested high and scored high on my interview. The best you can do is be prepared and do your best. Apprenticeships aren't only union companies so keep that in mind too!
@@dannyz7904 well you start at $18.50 at my union and in 3 months get full health, vision and dental plan plus an HRA and a bad ass skill to have the rest of your life. And we finish and turn out making a little over $40 an hour on the check...so it's pretty amazing bra
Joon Rhee sounds good man I’m in NYC and I see Union ppl make hella money here but at the end of the day it’s not all about the money but money is a big factor tho... especially when you got bills to pay lol
@@dannyz7904 right on brother! You are one of the first unions out there! Very strong presence And market share of the work! If you can get in I would!
Haha it's not for everyone I will tell you that much! And has he shown you how to do it?! If not, than that's stupid. They do have to also figure out where you are before.they can teach. It's not easy but.
@@JoonRhee I can catch on but idk the take offs for each fitting. I know a little bit but he just threw me to the dogs and then started bitching at me bc I couldn’t figure it out. Let me remind you… I’m with the UNION. This isn’t an open shop, I expected more but guess I was wrong. Don’t get me wrong I don’t mind being yelled at but yell at me for the right reasons not bc I don’t know everything. And I’m never on my phone. If he’s on his knees I’m right there on mine helping him. Always have my tools ready when he leaves his laying around. Smh
@@jeremyalcoser5742 you are not wrong! Doesn't sound like he set you up for success at all. He should have given you a fitting book! But you can download the Charlotte cast iron book at the app store! They are the pvc and cast for free:) it's a red book for cast. Hope that changes and talk to your jatc if that's what's going on. That doesn't sound right..what year are you?
Show up with a good attitude and on time and you'll always be employed ! Take pride in your work too !
I can agree!:) Way to speak up for that!
instablaster
Guy who hired me today just said that. Couldn't agree less. I'm coming over from the Mason's union (concrete/bricklayer) too since 2017 after high school. I'm gonna conquer both trades. My cousin on the same route but solar and electrician
15 minutes early or else you're late
Keep with it brotha. I love leading guys like you. Stay hungry and soak up the knowledge.
Wow! Thanks! I appreciate the love brother. Still going strong and I'll make sure to heed to this advice and keep soaking. Always more to learn and improve on
Damn where do I get a mentor like that😂 no apprenticeships going here!
Hey mate can I ask you a question
80's+90's, knew a couple owners that tested the apprentices, one day per week was to relocate a full pallet of 5"× 10' cast iron sticks pipe, from pallet delivered on, to other side of company lot. Also directly back to original place of origin on pallet. Just to see if they truly will stay within this occupation for duration of there life's. 2 within 20 apprentices is the actual range within there staying within this occupation for duration of there life's, remaining 18, just going through the motions. It's not for everyone, it's not glorious, very physically demanding, takes very high endurance to reach 20+ consecutive years.
Dave! Hell ya! I can agree with why the older guys are harder on the new ones. Me choosing this career because I wanted it has made all the difference. Plus I was 30 when I joined. So this is it for me. Through thick and thin. Love hearing your words of wisdom in that story! Appreciate you stopping in!
If you show interest in learning the trade and not just be there for the paycheck, 9 out of 10 times journeymen will be more than willing to teach you. There's always that 1 a-hole in any profession, lol. If you have a good attitude, you will go far, and you have a good attitude. If you're in Oahu Hawaii, let me know. I need good help. Residential plumbing repairs and install. Will provide a work van after 6 months of riding with me and proving you can handle the work and deal with the customers. Mahalo.
Steve! Didn't see this other comment! But me and my wife actually met in Maui! We were living there for about 8 months! This was about 12 years ago:) how cool is that! She is in nursing school to be an RN just one more year to go for her. And thanks for sharing the word on journeyman. You are right! You've gotta want to learn and stay open to new ways! Will let you know if we wanna relocate back to the island life...love Oahu!
I'll tell you what first year anything apprentice will do, and that is "Listen to your journeyman and do what you are told", that's what you'll do.
Hahaha I mean yes that's quite the direct way to put things. Some journeyman take that saying way to far though! Not all but some. You're not one of "those" guys are you? Thanks for stopping in and sharing some words of wisdom
Great video and how was It when you did your first interview for the union? Did you already happen to know someone in the union prior or just went in with your best leg forward.
Me personally I struggle on the interview side but have a strong passion for plumbing and trying to get in.
Hope your apprenticeship been going great!
@@brandonsavoie5588 great question. The answer is no I didn't know anyone or anything. Watch some more of my videos for more info and honestly, you gotta show you are gonna stick with it and learn. Also I finished a couple years ago and am now a journeyman:) thanks for the line
How does the training/schooling work? Do you just go to work and learn under a more experienced plumber and then go to school on the weekend to read blueprints?
Great question brother. So as far as on the job training you will be under a journeyman worker for all 5 years in the union. You can have a variety of journeyman and might even stay with one crew bc you click well. So that varies. But for the union school we go twice a week for 3 hours for 5 years. (Normal school year. Summers off) You'll learn blueprints on the job depending on what company you are placed with. A lot of prints are on an ipad now. So you'll learn all the ins and outs on the job and at school. Hardest thing I've noticed for everyone is staying focused and motivated to stay in school. But so worth it.
I start my apprenticeship this tuesday. I’m pretty nervous i’m not gonna lie lol. I have no idea what to expect.
Good! These videos will probably shed some.light on your new adventure. Watch the one I did with my brother who started 4 months ago! Thanks for sharing. Feel.free to ask any questions
thanks for the perspective
You are welcome! Hope it helps
Thx for the video will take everything into account I start Monday
Congrats! Very nice! Hope it does help have fun and be safe. Soak if all in and make all sexy looking. The plumbing that is
I start my first plumbing job tomorrow. I have zero experience and I am working for a commercial plumbing company.
Love it! I had zero experience and I now I know a few things! So you will perfectly fine! Go in knowing nothing it's actually a lot better for the JM. You are gonna take a lot of orders so just say okay and ask and speak up if you don't know something! But truly just say yes no problem to all their requests unless it's just stupid. But your job is to learn everything you touch. But give yourself time! It's about the long haul! Keep us posted! Well done! You sound just like me. Had zero experience and was put on commercial! It's the best mate
@@JoonRhee Thanks! Yeah I will just show up on time with a good attitude and pay attention. I have a lot of work experience in another industry so I know how to be a good employee.
@@kurtisjames1592 the good attitude is good! But beyond that it will make your life a lot easier when someone is teaching you...and you just say okay or just yes. And trust me you will not want to say it;) haha just listen to the info not how someone is saying it. Trust me. You'll know what I'm talking about in about 3 months
Hi Kurtis , how is the plumbing job going ?
@@davidpham8324 ya @kurtisjames how is it going?!
Just a word of advice, always ream your pipe. Gas line, rigid water line and even PVC DWV. I am always amazed at plumbers either 1), were not taught to ream their pipe or 2), just don't care and pass that poor workmanship on to others. Have fun, and the best is yet to come!
Always ream baby! I'm very glad I've been taught by very good hands in this trade;) thanks for posting brother and for sharing a good word! Can't wait for the future. More than half way now
Forgot to mention the shovel
Soooooo true!!!!! Good catch:) hahahaha gotta love that shovel:) thanks for dropping a line
I quit my apprenticeship cause the journeyman I was with was a dumbass. He didn’t read the blueprints or anything. He messed up so much stuff and I asked to be moved with a different journeyman but the couldn’t cause they were tight on personnel. I was making 12 an hour. I have an opportunity for another apprenticeship they’ll pay 17 an hour and are willing to teach me. Im excited
That really fucking sucks! And honestly you are not the only one. Ive had my fair share of shit head journeyman and it's not easy. I was like "not gonna listen to this guy" and went on trying to figure it out myself. Anyway, good for you on finding that opportunity and hope the best for you. Keep me posted!
same here man... i need 8000 hours to get my license and im 3500 hours in but i just quit my job at a small firm cause i COULD NOT put up with my journeyman. He scammed customers, had no ambition, and barely wanted to talk about plumbing. im so bumbed out rn. spent 30,000$ and a year of schooling and now i think im going to quit the trades as a whole.. 3rd time finding a old guy who should literally be in prison.. so mentally draining
@@joshua-pu2os hey man there are great manufacturing jobs that are hurting for people. I make 60k a year and I get a bonus with great benefits. Boring job but decent pay and benefits
Wow how things have changed. When I was a first year apprentice. I was thrown into the fire immediately. ! year in Iwas roughing full bathrooms. That had to be inspected.
That's a pretty fair expectation out of a 1st year but the times have changed. Now, you'll be lucky if you ever get to glue anything in your 1st year let alone left alone to rough in a bathroom. I was doing venting, radon pipe, running pex lines all by the end of my first year. From what I hear, guys today don't start doing that until their 2nd/3rd year. Guess it depends on the person whether or not getting thrown into the fire is better. Some people have 'it' more than others. I see that now that I'm on the other side.
@@losferwords100 Wow. yeah granted this was over 15 years ago. But, I was a little surprised at how elementary they start alot of these kids out now. Not sure if it is good or bad. At the time it could be alot of pressure but, On the other hand I got experienced and good fast. And able to get me out on my own fast as possible.
Hopefully you see this and can reply but, I take my union test on the 13th. I’m pretty green when it comes to construction, (i can read a tape then measure and cut wood but that’s about it). Do you actually learn everything or do the journeyman just expect u to know everything
@@xeeding-_- congrats on getting the test. Try to focus on getting in and getting a job first. Don't worry about being green we actually prefer that. You will get hazed and razzed bc that's just the environment. But don't take it personal. And no you are not expected to know jack shit. Just be a yes man and do whatever the journey worker requests...(Within the work boundaries) You need to learn what to do and what not to do. So knowing really nothing is a mindset to keep in mind through your first three or four years. Keep me.posted!
I got in. Found the test fairly easy and i’m ranked #3 among the other plumbing apprentices on the waitlist. Now im sitting on the bench waiting to get dispatched.
@@xeeding-_- way to go! Love to hear it! And just know you gotta work hard and stick it out. How the career building starts. Your name is what gets passed around. Congrats
How did the hiring process look? Did you get hired to the union or did you get hired to a member company, and how long did it take?
@@SILLY_BILLY_777 great question!!!! So I was super fortunate to have been hired as a helper for the company I actually still work for and than a month later accepted into the program. Though I did score quite high in all categories which helped. And I was hired within a week of applying. thanks for dropping a line
@@JoonRhee Thanks for replying, I have a couple more for ya. How did the pay work? Did it go up the moment you got into the program or was that something that took longer?
@@SILLY_BILLY_777 not a problem! And yes from helper wages you start the 5 year program. And we get raises every year...which amounted to a little over $4ish an hour a year and the big jump was 5th year to JM which ends up being around $8 plus an hour. So every program is different but mostly it's yearly raises plus the union package raise (cost of living) which is about $2ish depending on your bargaining agreement
@@JoonRhee That's awesome man, thanks for the information. I'm planning on applying next year, I'm very mechanically inclined and I can't stand sitting at a desk typing all day (my current job is that). I figure you can do a lot more good for people actually building and repairing their stuff than sitting at a desk all day, the work is hard, but honestly I'm so sedentary it'd probably do me well lol
@@SILLY_BILLY_777 Glad I could help. In all reality. I know it's not easy to work a job that is not fulfilling. I don't think the trades are necessarily the answer to your quest. But I believe the trades offer not only a wonderful career opportunity, but it also presents the opportunity to become a better person to find out what you're made of and you can find a lot of answers in this field. But I look back and it's not easy. It's also something you really have to fight for and you have to be willing to sacrifice. Is it enjoyable to help people? Sure, I wouldn't say that's what my motivation was. Especially since you're in commercial or I'm in commercial. I don't have that direct correlation of seeing the effects. But I also know that I have been a part of the larger picture of building hospitals and servicing hospitals which therefore in turn hopefully benefit humanity. But that's really not what matters to me. The larger picture for me was having a adequate lifestyle that afforded me choices so that's my two cents. But thanks for tuning in
Interviewing for my local for the second time tomorrow. How many interviews did you do?
Right on amigo! Depends on how many people you have to go through and are on the waiting list. I only went through one. But our Union wasn't as competitive as others. But I still had to beat out some people. Keep us in the loop. May the plumbing gods be on your side
Did you ever have to place to the respect boundary you mention at the end with a journeynen or foreman?
You know you do. But you gotta make sure it's the right setting. Generally it can be caught in the moment. There is a lot of bullshit that is just part of it you know. But if you are trying your hardest that respect can be seen
Thanks mate helped a lot! for the first couple of weeks of your apprenticeship would was expected of you?
So glad to hear! You know it kind of varies of what's expected. It can vary depending on what the job needs and how large it is. I'll make a video this coming week explaining more of what I've seen. But the best thing you can do, show up 10 min early everyday to work, be ready with your tools, listen, ask good questions, and anticipate what it is your journey man might need once you start to get into a work flow and building your knowledge. They don't expect much from a first year I can tell you that:) just being teachable. Good luck!
What did you start first with the apprenticeship, class or straight to a job site? I couldn’t imagine walking on to a job site with not an ounce of knowledge. Sounds like your not doing the work more just learning with your eyes. The union I’m applying for had an online only application I applied, now I have to turn in my transcript paperwork this Monday so these videos have been very helpful bro
@@nickabluh1734 sorry Nick didn't see this in my notification! So first congrats on applying. Like I have mentioned start the first impression asap! Which is hard to do since it's all online. But you could always swing by and make yourself known and want to take a look around. And as far as my experience of being on the job...I was called in to my company before I got accepted into the apprenticeship to be a "helper" and they literally threw me out onto a job site and I was drilling anchors on a 12ft ladder within 10 min of being there. Haha the start time was 4am too! So yes they may not have you do stuff but I would say..."yeah, I've never done that but show me and I'll try" that's the best thing. I'd prefer that a new guy had no experience so I can train him right. Anyway fill me in on your progress.
@@JoonRhee when do you start doing jobs by yourself, how long?
@@awakenedpennslyvanian5194 howdy! So by doing jobs yourself do you mean like a task such as layout and install? It all really depends on your abilities and how much a journeyman trusts you. But you will always be with a journeyman and can do tasks for them. But being all alone won't happen till your 4th or 5th year. I've done a few things but it all really matters on ones ability. I'll always go over my plan with the journeyman before I begin.
I once cut truss in new home. I looked at my master tin banger and said what do I do he said you have told to many people.i said only you. He put clear caulking and saw dust In 2x4.
Hahahaha fucking apprentice! Hahahaha and I and I am sure you won't have done that again
nice video dude, im 27 and want to get into plumbing, my question is the programm your in with the union? if so how can i apply?
Yup! Union all the way! And I got some more videos on those questions but find your local union and see what their website suggests:) have fun brother thanks for stopping in
Regular companies have apprenticeships too. Bigger companies. U can also teach urself the basics
Have you ever worked weekends? What days and time period are the night classes?
Oh yes! Weekends are for sure apart of busy season. But that's up to you. I'd say work a ton during your apprenticeship and as you move forward you can rebalance whatever life you'd like to make. And classes for me are either mon and wed. Or tue and thur. And they are 3 hours per night. With some homework. It's awesome to get all the material and have a more in depth understanding. Worth the investment
Joon Rhee I would assume you get paid overtime for the weekends, but can you choose whether you work or not on the weekends?
@@banahyasharahla3239 in my case yes overtime is paid for anything over 8hrs in a day and weekends for sure. Unions have different bylaws on all that and I can't speak for non-union companies. But yes you can't be forced to work over the weekends persay you just may not be offered much OT of you always say no.
Maybe a weird question but do you do any exercise for your back etc to stay fit
No that's a great question! And it depends on what you are wanting to do with your back. But dead lifts, pull ups, dumbbell rows would all hit the back. But you should look at stretching your lower back out with yoga poses. So look up on the world wide web pigeon pose variations. And that will be a life saver!
Thank you sir@@JoonRhee
@@mider9996 whoa whoa whoa I am not knighted by the queen yet;) keep it going brother glad you wanna take care of yourself better
say if I get an apprenticeship in residential plumbing, do you have to go to school during the week or do you just learn everything on the job??
Great question! And depending if you go non union...they have their own set up. But union will still require you go to school for 5 years twice a week. Residential or commercial. So in my opinion, no you won't learn it all on the job. School for sure refines a lot and gives you a lot more background a reason. Thanks for the question!
Joon Rhee okay thanks for the great feedback!!!
Can apprentices be part time? To check it out before fully committed?
I've not heard of that happening bc school is twice per week and you need to gain 7500 hours to take your license test. And they usually want you to have that by your 5th year. If you wanna check it out you can apply through your union to be a "helper" and that's how people usually check it out. But nothing part time from what I understand.
You should do more videos im in my second yr.
I for sure have more coming once the summer comes. Tough to get content during the school year! Congrats on getting into the 2nd year! Keep it up
Bro can u give me more insight on the apprentices test how hard is it and the math questions??
Hey thanks for the question! Did you check out my other videos by chance? Let me know if you don't get your answer and I'll make one for just the pre test. Thanks again!
To apply for an apprenticeship program with a union do you have to pay some fees?
Hi! Thanks for the question! And no there are no fees that I am aware of for applying. But if there is I'd pay it in a heart beat to just get seen! And we do pay union dues once a month as well:) so there are fees once you are in the union. Thanks for question!
You have to pay an initiation fee. At least with the union I’m with and then the monthly dues
I just got into the local 130 a couple months ago. It costed me about 300 for initiation and another 1300 to start my apprenticeship. That covered my tools and iPad. They don’t use books in school anymore.
I'm a handy man and want go back to more career type work. I've done underground utilities and plumbing experience as far as water heater installation, p trap, cooler and galvanized pipe ect. I dont mind entering as a apprentice and hope through execution I can climb the ladder respectively. Any company's you recommend applying for?
Right in! That's awesome! Kind of depends on what route you would like to enter into. Union or non? And from there I would go through that application process. They might even move you up and year or two payscale wise depending on that experience! So it sounds like you might fit right in with service
...service plumbing and would have to check with your local jurisdiction on who runs the majority of that work. Be it union and non union bc apprenticeships differ and are separate from my understanding. Best of luck!
Is there alot of overtime as a 1st year? Im currently working fulltime at the UAW making 25an hr but was looking for something more reliable, i know ill be taking a paycut starting out but worried about lay offs and lack of overtime, got an interview in a few weeks for my local UA
Great question! What is the UAW by the way? Depends on where you live and what the unions market share is...overtime is per job and what needs to get done schedule wise usually. So it comes and goes. That pay decrease will only be for a year and after that you won't look back:) thanks for comment
@@JoonRhee uaw is United auto workers union , currently working for chrysler. Ill be interviewing for UA local 50 in toledo
@@toasttoast789 oh very nice. Well having that mechanical experience could be a very good thing. And yes I know in the Chicago area the union is hella strong. So, every little bit helps. Score high. Interview well. Fill me in!
Didnt get accepted unfortunantly. Going to stick it out with chrysler for a few years and save some money for a future chance at the apprenticeship. Gunna try for local 190 in annarbor next time
thank you for the vid.
Awesome! If you have any questions let me know and hope all goes well! Such a great profession
Hi I was wondering is being a plumber dangerous? Also do you often have free time to go to the gym and work out if you work overtimes?
Another great question David. Thanks for asking. During your apprenticeship you are going to be working hopefully full time. I was working full-time plus some overtime maybe every few months. But classes will take up about 6 hours a week, two nights a week. And yeah I'd say you can still get to the gym at least 3 4 times a week. It's not a matter of do you have time? It's a matter of all you making time. Joining the apprenticeship in working full time. It's you know full-time job is what it is. You're going to have to work in life. That's just the fact, so you'll have to cut out things that aren't a priority anymore. That's up to you. That's great question, thanks for asking
@@JoonRhee Thank you for the response! if I may ask one more question, would you say you're financially comfortable after obtaining your journeyman license? Like you don't need to worry about rent or u can eat out more often. I don't plan on getting married or having kids.
I just applied for the union in my location and just want to know if it’s the drug test is urine I currently have a Cdl but been out of work because I was shot 5 times this summer which led me back to my smoking habits because I was bed rested and couldn’t walk for a few months but now I’m back heals and over a month sober
@@dredadon6515 yeah that sounds like a shitty story for sure. Welcome back. And yes, it's a urine test next dropping a line. Hope you find a better situation
Hey Joon. I'm wanting to get my feet into the door, should I start off with doing a pre-apprenticeship course first or find employment for an apprenticeship by working voluntarily as a general laborer to start off for a potential offer?
Thanks.
Thanks for stopping in David! I would go with being a plumbers helper! Get in that way. General labor will make it a bit harder I suppose to change. Plus you won't get experience in plumbing but don't let experience count you out. Check out some of the other videos I made to help you out! Thanks for the question!
are you a journeyman now?
1 semester left homie G!
im trying to get into plumbing but no one is hiring me im applying on indeed. is there any other things i can do to get hired
That's a really good question. I know it's hard to get your foot in the door. But I would call up local contractors. I would show up at their offices if you don't already have a job and let them know you want to get in the field. It's hard to also let people that don't have experience in the field in because they may not last long. So it's a risk on both sides. You know what I'm saying. But I'm sure you can find someone to give you a shot. If you really want it. You'll have to take a pay cut. There's always that chance. I did a massive one. But it paid off
Also go down to your local plumbing Hall and tell him you want to be a helper. I don't see why they wouldn't help hire you one
How many hours you work a week? I need to work 70-80 hours week
Is this job where I can get Ton of hours?
The fuck you need to work 70/80 hour weeks for? You won't find that really anywhere. Unless you wanna be in the oil field. We usually average 45 and in service maybe 50 but depends on the season. Thanks for the question. Don't work too much player!
@@JoonRhee thank you I try not to but I have no choice
@@gravediggermt9141 sorry to hear that! Best of luck!
well done young fella
Thank you good sir! Such a great career
Thanks 👍 bro
No problem! Hope it helps!
do you have to have experience in plumbing or with tools to become an apprentice. Will they reject you if you dont know anything?
Great question! You for sure won't be rejected bc of having no experience. As long as you can read a tape measure and really want to learn...you'd be perfect. I didn't have any tools when I started and I had zero experience:)
@@JoonRhee Thanks for the response and info Joon!
@@justinwilson8308 no problem! Go all out!
@@JoonRhee are you working in the States or Canada? If Canada, which unit of tape measurements do most guys use in the field?
@@kvn1459 how you doing mate!? I am in America so we use a standard measuring system...well inches and feet. Canada for sure uses the metric system. Anyway thanks for the questions
What's the starting pay?
Howdy partner! So it really does depend on where you are located in the states. Each union has different ranges. But you'll start out at least $18-22 an hour ON the check. And your package total though is $25-30 because of the all your health benefits after 90 days.
Do you know any good unions in Las Vegas?
@@at5840 Las Vegas actually has a very strong union. Getting in I heard is harder because of that. So I am only assuming here but you would need to score really high on your tests as well as your interview and in order to get higher on the list...become a helper ASAP with a union contractor. Best thing to do is actually go down to the hall. Dress your best and talk to the JATC...
@@JoonRhee do you get paid while in the program or that's after you're done?
@@at5840 you get paid for the 40 hours you work during the week. And the school is two nights per week for 5 years. And you DO NOT get paid to go to school. It's a normal job just with the expectations you need to be in school
How hard is it to become an apprentice?, is it very competitive
Well, depends on your states demand for plumbers. My state was needing them pretty bad a few years ago. But I also tested high and scored high on my interview. The best you can do is be prepared and do your best. Apprenticeships aren't only union companies so keep that in mind too!
Are you union or non union ?
Union so I am in a 5 year program
Joon Rhee hows the pay man ? I keep getting mixed answers about it
@@dannyz7904 well you start at $18.50 at my union and in 3 months get full health, vision and dental plan plus an HRA and a bad ass skill to have the rest of your life. And we finish and turn out making a little over $40 an hour on the check...so it's pretty amazing bra
Joon Rhee sounds good man I’m in NYC and I see Union ppl make hella money here but at the end of the day it’s not all about the money but money is a big factor tho... especially when you got bills to pay lol
@@dannyz7904 right on brother! You are one of the first unions out there! Very strong presence And market share of the work! If you can get in I would!
So my journey man wanted me to run some cast iron. Said get my measurements and left me alone to do it… starting to hate this trade
Haha it's not for everyone I will tell you that much! And has he shown you how to do it?! If not, than that's stupid. They do have to also figure out where you are before.they can teach. It's not easy but.
@@JoonRhee I can catch on but idk the take offs for each fitting. I know a little bit but he just threw me to the dogs and then started bitching at me bc I couldn’t figure it out. Let me remind you… I’m with the UNION. This isn’t an open shop, I expected more but guess I was wrong. Don’t get me wrong I don’t mind being yelled at but yell at me for the right reasons not bc I don’t know everything. And I’m never on my phone. If he’s on his knees I’m right there on mine helping him. Always have my tools ready when he leaves his laying around. Smh
@@jeremyalcoser5742 you are not wrong! Doesn't sound like he set you up for success at all. He should have given you a fitting book! But you can download the Charlotte cast iron book at the app store! They are the pvc and cast for free:) it's a red book for cast. Hope that changes and talk to your jatc if that's what's going on. That doesn't sound right..what year are you?
@@JoonRhee first year. Just started