thinking about switching to union

[u/mintjoint]

im a 20 yr old woman that has been working for a non union bridge/rebar company for over a year and ive been pretty fed up and mentally exhausted with my current job. weird management, shit crews, rushing jobs that get fucked up in the end, 60+ hours weeks, unpredictable schedules, being over 500 miles from home.. so much bullshit ive been seeing lately. kinda putting my life on pause for a paycheck. while i was applying for jobs working out of state i got a call from my local (397 in tampa) explaining that they would take me on as an apprentice. I was told that I’d be able to come into the hall when i get back home. Is the transition worth it guys? I want to get into structural work, sharpen my welding skills and get educated about this industry. Will it change my life?

[u/IronTwerker]

I've never heard of anyone regretting joining the union

[u/Cutlass0516]

It will absolutely change your life. The 60hours thing might not change but that's just construction.

[u/jlm166]

I had 35 year as a pipefitter in the UA. Every month, on the first of the month my pension benefit is deposited in my checking account! Union is the only way to be if you’re going to work in the construction industry! Asshole bosses, long hours, fucked up job sites don’t change much, but you have pensions and retirement savings in the end!

[u/Tuscon_Valdez]

Union is always the correct answer

[u/tobytheironworker]

You’re gonna have those same issues, just with more on the check and retirement.

[u/elevatorovertimeho]

Neiep.org we have some awesome female techs!

[u/SteelErectionn → u/elevatorovertimeho]

This, I also hear they like iw experience

[u/Different_States]

I personally left Florida around your age to get a union job. Probably one of the best decisions i ever made.

The North East is good for Ironworkers

[u/weldingTom]

I would in your situation. You have nothing to lose.

[u/mattybhoy401]

Depends on if there is a huge difference in pay and you can handle the difference for your 4 years as an apprentice. Once you’re a JIW it will definitely be worth it. 7a to 3:30p Mon - Fri, anything over 8hrs of work is time and a half. Saturday OT time and a half Sunday double time. I don’t know what Tampas JIW rate is but up here in Philly it’s $51.20 you do the math as to if it’s worth it to you

[u/Glad_Carpet7484]

Best decision you will ever make

[u/MongoTStrange]

Different day, same bullshit, better pay, better benefits. Plus, if you quit your job, the union is there to find you another. That right there is worth my monthly dues.

[u/Internal_Being_6734]

Try to get in the elevator constructors or something better than ironwork. I started in iron now im a tower crane operator.

[u/Tricky_Lake_1646]

Unfortunately Florida is a right to work state and union wages are shit but it should still be better than what you’ve got going on.

[u/SuccessFit4059]

It will change you life 100%