Posted on Nov 22, 2019
SPC Jacob Trimbo
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Hey guys, got out of AA and have been working in the private sector for about three years now. I was wondering if there is an easy way to change my career path (i was a former 11B) and would like to get into a field like automotives/electrical; without having to go to college. Hardly any employers want to accept someone into their business unless they have a degree of some sort, but i'm more of what you'd call a hands on learner; would an apprenticeship be a more viable route to take. Any support would be much appreciated.
Posted in these groups: F46ae4b7 AutomotiveApprentice
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SFC Health And Safety Trainer
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Check out Helmets to Hard Hats, or look for a trade union local near your community. You may have to travel even a few hours away for your apprenticeship, but it is worth the experience.

As far as UAW apprenticeships, they are very cold and slow right now in hiring apprentices off the street. I’ve not heard of any apprentices being indentured off the street, and only a few from within the corporations. You’ll likely have a lot better luck getting an apprenticeship with a construction trades union, such as the IBEW, USW, Steamfitters, etc.
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SPC Joshua Ulch
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Check out the stuff Mike Rowe does (guy from Dirty Jobs) as far as automotive apprenticeships, go to a GM UAW website. Also, working at an Automotive plant is actually not bad. You can start on the line and work your way up to Salary ranks. Still get overtime and bonuses, but you’ll make way more money.

There are options out there.

Just like the Army, you get out of it what you out in. Follow orders, be where you’re supposed to be and do what your supposed to be doing.

If you’re a sham solider, you’ll be ok inthe UAW. There is a lot of them in the Union. Personally I dislike people like that.

Need more info, let me know.
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SFC Health And Safety Trainer
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You don’t know much about the UAW trades, apparently. UAW tradesmen switch over to the salary side about once every, uh, never... I’ve worked in a UAW represented shop and I can confirm that tradesmen never leave their tools to go salary.
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SPC Joshua Ulch
SPC Joshua Ulch
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Well, let’s see. My Stepfather was Skilled Trade (Local 160) at GM and spent time as a Committeeman. He had it set up for me to be an apprentice, but I enlisted in the Army instead. I work for GM and worked as a Supervisor/Group Leader/Foreman for both Skilled Trade (Local 160) and Production (Local 22). I have worked for and worked with people who were either Skilled Trade or Production UAW workers. I work with a lot of Per-Diem Supervisors and Technical Jobs. I know personally know a couple executives that were former line workers. Personally some of the best supervisors are former UAW hourly because they’ve walked the walk. So you can believe what you want. I know what I know from first-hand experience. I’ll enjoy my six-figure and growing salary. Thanks for your service. SFC (Join to see)
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SFC Health And Safety Trainer
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SPC Joshua Ulch Perhaps the Tech Center has a different climate, but at my facility, tradesmen don’t leave their tools. In my 12 years, I’ve only seen two IBEW electricians promote to salary in electrical engineering roles. What’s with the weird flex of spouting off your salary though? I make six figures too, so what’s your point? It doesn’t validate or invalidate any claims, but I’m glad we are both enjoying our incomes.

At any rate, OP is looking for advice on how to become a journeyman in skilled trades. No reason to bring management/union relations into it. Have a nice weekend.
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