Massachusetts apprenticeship question.

[JBETTENCOURT]

Hi everyone.

This is my first post, but I have been lurking here for the last month or so.

I was wondering if anyone could give me some information about joining the local plumbing union here in Massachusetts. Or any useful information on beginning the process of apprenticeship. I will be going for my interview process next week. I have my paper work prepared and in order. I am 31, and have worked in a couple of different fields, other than plumbing. I am currently a mechanic, and have worked with my hands most of my life.

While I have been on many interviews, any advice or tips on what to expect during the process would help. I thank you very much for your time and answers.

I did do a search for these questions but did not find anything for Massachusetts.

[DuckButter]

WELCOME!
I'm licensed in MA, I guess you'll be running down to Freeport St in Dot for that interview..for local 12.
With your experience as a mechanic, you quickly pick up the trade...BUT, don't be defensive when younger guys teach you things, accept that you are starting fresh and despite your experience, this is different.
There are 22 yr old licensed guys that got their start at Vo tech, and some may have the ego of a fella that age...just be humble and listen.
It'll take 5 years full time and 500 hours of school...used to be 3 & 300 for the private sector (non union), but that changed last year.
Hang around, get to know the boys here...careful with learning code...can be completely different from one state to the next and our code is unique.

[DuckButter]

Also, stick around...too many of these west coast nuts...we need some eastern influence here!

[JBETTENCOURT]

Duck thank you for the wisdom and encouragement. Very apreciated. :)

[DuckButter]

Duck thank you for the wisdom and encouragement. Very apreciated. :)
No prob...be my pleasure to help any way I can to give you a jumpstart.

[Bob D.]

If you are looking for information on apprenticeships and joining the UA, you can find it here.
http://www.ua.org/join.asp

For links to UA Local websites around the country, look here:

http://www.ua.org/links.asp

Local 12 is here: http://www.plumbersandgasfitterslocal12.org/