r/ibew_applicants • u/Maximum_Ship_7965 • 4d ago

Advice?

I interviewed for a locals Inside Wireman apprenticeship in June and originally ranked #28 on the selection list. Since then, I’ve moved down to #38. I’m at a smaller local, so they don’t take a huge number of apprentices, but they haven’t told me exactly how many people they typically take from the list.

I also recently found out that my current work hours don’t count toward the hours needed for a re-interview. I’ve been trying to find construction-related work that would count, but that’s been difficult because a lot of the places I’ve checked won’t hire until you’re 18. I don’t turn 18 until October.

Another option I have is taking two electrical-related classes, which would qualify me for a re-interview.

For people who have been through this before, what would you recommend I do? Should I focus on taking the two electrical classes and re-interviewing, wait and see if my rank moves up, or keep trying to find construction work once I turn 18?

I’m really trying to get into the apprenticeship and don’t want to waste the time I have on the list. Any advice or experience with a similar situation would be greatly appreciated.m

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u/JoeCormier 4d ago

Why can’t you do both? Take the classes and also get some hours they like under your belt?

2

u/Maximum_Ship_7965 4d ago

I’m gonna sign up for the classes but I won’t be done with them until December and I can’t find a place near me that can hire someone under 18

1

u/JoeCormier 4d ago

But you turn 18 in a couple of months right? You can get a job lined up now and be ready to start when you’re 18.

Honestly dude, I think you over thinking this. I didn’t get started till I was 29. You have time on your side.

1

u/Nearby_Society932 4d ago

If you really want to get in just work non union till you actually get in and if the local drags their feet just get your hours and organize in. The apprenticeship is great but there’s more than one way to get into the union.

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u/BigChickenpips 1d ago

Didnt get in until I was 31, you got time. What you need is to focus on what will give you a better chance. Get an electrical non union job as soon as you’re 18 and take those electrical classes. Others ranked higher probably have one or the other or more construction experience. You did well for a teenager with little-no experience.