Trades
None of this is expert advice. It's what people worked out for themselves, usually the hard way — what actually helped, and what they'd tell someone standing where you are. Take what fits and leave the rest.
If you only read a few
Budget for books and tools during the first few years of apprenticeship.
This is when you buy the most materials.
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Do not let a lack of initial fitness deter you from applying for labor positions.
Strength is an attribute that can be acquired on the job.
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Consider barbering as a career change if you are looking to leave a previous trade like truck driving.
One person reported hitting the ground running at age 32 and not looking back.
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If you work in a trade, consider applying for jobs at ski resorts to secure full-time hours and reasonable schedules.
One worker reported that despite the dirty nature of the work, this path provides a consistent 40-hour week and allows them to get home at reasonable hours.
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Do not let overtime temptation affect your studies; take only a little overtime to avoid burnout.
To prevent burning yourself out.
- A little overtime is fine.
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Lock up your tools to prevent theft.
Things are frequently stolen in the trades.
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Choose composite-toe boots over steel-toe boots if you work in cold environments.
Steel toes get very cold in the winter.
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Reset your body clock before apprenticeship begins.
So you are ready to go when it starts.
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Do not let age deter you from starting a trade career; older applicants may be valued for their maturity.
Older workers are liked because they 'get shit'.
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Arrive at least 15 minutes early every day.
Foremen hate lateness.
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In the trades, respond to communications promptly, show up when promised, complete the work, and cultivate attention to detail.
You will have abundant work available.
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Pivot to technical or less physically demanding roles within the trade industry, such as fire alarm systems or starting a company, as an exit strategy.
These options are easier on your body.
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If you dislike academics, pursue an apprenticeship in trades like electrical, plumbing, or welding.
There is high demand for tradesmen, and you earn more as you gain experience, with plenty of overtime and promotions available.
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Join a union to ensure safety and cleanliness standards are enforced by coworkers and stewards rather than relying on employers.
Capitalism does not care about safety or cleanliness, but unions do.
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Pursue apprenticeships or self-study in trades like carpentry, plumbing, and landscaping.
These fields have shorter training periods with good returns even during the apprenticeship phase.
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Show humility and be willing to learn rather than resisting correction.
Employers prefer candidates who listen and absorb information over those with experience who believe they are never wrong.
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Consider applying for airplane wire modification jobs, which do not require certification and offer high pay ceilings.
You can learn on the job and work toward certifications that dramatically increase earning potential.
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Wear hearing protection consistently to prevent permanent hearing damage.
One person suffered permanent ringing in their ears from avoiding the inconvenience of putting in earplugs.
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Look into sprinkler fitting as a trade option, as there is a dire need for workers compared to electricians or plumbers.
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If you are in financial distress, consider training for HVAC work to gain the ability to find new employment easily if you are laid off or fired.
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When looking for an appliance repair job, verify that the training technician actually diagnoses problems rather than just changing parts, ensuring you learn real skills.
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Consider becoming a copier or printer technician, a field that welcomes women and offers company cars and training.
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