Quote:
Originally Posted by mcan
I actually love fixing phones.
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If you like fixing phones, I'm guessing that you like "techy" stuff. Go down to your IBEW Local, and sign up for testing. You will be tested on math, reading comprehension and some other deal, then given an interview. You will then be scored on both, and put on a list for the apprenticeship program based on the total cumulative score.
Sounds to me like you would like the low voltage VDV(voice, data, video) classification. Install and maintain computer and phone networks, install security, cctv, catv, fire alarm possibly low voltage lighting, fiber optics, nurse call and all kind of cool systems.
Your first year apprenticeship wage might even get you a raise. You will have school for at least 3 yrs, while working a 40hr work week, gain benefits after 90 days and wind up making $25+/hr(don't know the actual scale in your local) PLUS health and welfare benefits on top of that, and a 401k, plus other retirement benefits. Possibly vacation, depending on your local contract.
I'm currently a in my 7th or 8th yr, make enough to pay 2 mortgages and all associated bills, plus car payments and such all while the old lady makes dirt.(something in the 30's/yr).
I'm doing a 16 story hotel right now. Data, phone, cctv, catv, door controls, paging, fiber out the ass, fire alarm. It's fun, rewarding and helps to know you're "the guy" for the company. Stressful, but rewarding.
If you're a good employee, you will get the security of working for a single employer instead of jumping shops constantly like some guys. Not that that is all bad, some guys like it, get "vacation" and unemployment when things get slow that way.
If things ever go South with my employer, whom has been my only employer since I was a first year Cub, I'd probably just start my own company, possibly non union and do more low voltage systems our local electricians won't give up, such as low voltage lighting.
Good living if you're into it...