5 Tips for an Electrical Apprentice

These are my five tips on anyone beginning in the electrical trade or an electrical apprentice. These tips could also be valuable for any other trade for that matter. This could apply to plumbers, carpenters, HVAC technicians, automotive techs, or even machinists. These tips will start your career off on the right foot.

[@tjm15_97]

You made the video I requested. Thank you Mike. Just took my entry exam for the apprenticeship through the IBEW on Wednesday

[@MikesToolShed]

+Trevor Maday hell yeah. Sorry I didn't give you credit. I totally lost that comment and couldn't remember where I saw it. Thanks man. That was a great idea.

[@LionAstrology]

Mike's Tool Shed wish more apprentices listen to your advice in this video..my job would be a 1000 times easier.

[@tjm15_97]

Thank you still haven't heard back yet from the IBEW. Supposedly, ill here back in December

[@grasshopper2462]

Was it hard?

[@tjm15_97]

grass hopper The test? They lay it out for you pretty simply. I do recommend buying the $150 study guide because it really breaks everything down thats going to be on the test

[@subarusumeragikun]

Holy shit this hand knows a lot about electricians.

[@yachtcharm]

sam me 😭

[@boyleadfoot5369]

Thanks for the laugh man.

[@FreeMindedMason]

I'd rather a hand that knows a lot then one that shakes a lot lol (had an alchy for jman at one of my first companies)

[@youpapapo7321]

Good laugh

[@FreeMindedMason]

sam me 1 million subscribers = arm reveal

[@Chillo56]

The hand in this video gave me better advice than 99% of my elders did in my entire life.

[@Fosellar]

Just wait until you hear what the other hand has to say!

[@eddiew2325]

Fosellar the other hand is a foot

[@christophersantini2721]

That's sad!

[@grizzlycountry1030]

LOL

[@Ablazey10]

It’s a talking hand 😂

[@SurvivalInFlames]

Best thing a boss ever told me: "I pay you from the neck down, you let me do the thinking" lol

[@rogertorrez1798]

SurvivalInFlames damn

[@rustyray420]

That's kinda terrible. I'd like to have employees that can think Looool but I get what he meant

[@dakotakuhn6178]

Shitty boss

[@Digital_Gangster]

Sounds like one of those "I know everything" jackasses. Everyone makes mistakes sometimes.

[@mikechung6285]

SurvivalInFlames thats a pretty good one, suprised i was never told that before 😂

[@matts7975]

Keep your mouth shut, and ask lots of questions. Got it.

[@christophersantini2721]

Pretty sure he meant talk back or complain to someone that is in charge u don't like and if you are talking keep it related to questions about the job your doing/ don't be scared to ask if you are doing something if your not sure if your right.. I GUESS, was kinda dumb to me to. He seems like a jerk to work for.. a know it all. Hey the fact is that there are many leadership styles and some people are hard to get along with but find a way and be able to adapt to change. Many people don't label and are not neat. Should be though. Read who moved my cheese, help alot. Everyone is business school reads it.

[@tunasand44]

dont blaba and talk back. if ever in slight of doubt ask! you can never be in the wrong for asking a question related to your work and want to make sure its done correctly and safely!! bosses remember whos asking questions and whos not when it comes to apprentices

[@darkliquid6388]

I wrote the same thing without noticing your comment. lol

[@hideoutdodge01]

Your the last guy I'd want to hire if you can't tell what he meant!

[@richardtherien5162]

Lol. That's hilarious

[@PavelMikhalkov]

"And remember: everyone, who died of electrocution, died surprised."

[@MikesToolShed]

Pavel Mikhalkov im always stressing safety. I like that though. Never heard that one

[@ManLikeAce]

Pavel Mikhalkov lmao

[@lachlanmackay6586]

Dirt 117 ive seen a dude behind on mortgage repayments cut his finger off

[@FreeMindedMason]

Pavel Mikhalkov its shocking really

[@christophersantini2721]

That should be number 1 lol!

[@bjaminm428]

Stand up for yourself. Don't do something if you think its unsafe.

[@jarredkrumm2712]

I agree, then lost EVERY JOB I had for it and other reasonable stands. That's life.

[@urface12343]

Jarred Krumm that’s when you call OSHA and ruin that businesses finances

[@brady_6692]

@@jarredkrumm2712 I mean they are actually not allowed to retaliate if you refuse to do something thats not safe.

[@PlymouthVT]

Absolutely. If you disagree please watch CHERNOBYL on HBO. Best documentary of stupidity and pride ever made.

[@santiagoolascuaga8062]

@@urface12343 well that depends mostly on common sense, like idiots that don't where safety glasses or move on the ladder without getting down, that's kinda like a rare occasion where someone gets hurt for that (still fucking shouldn't) but I don't agree osha comes in and gives a company a hefty fine just for an idiots mistake, but when it comes to working with entire buildings, lakes, houses they have to make sure there's not even the smallest mistake or an unpredictable amount of people may die

[@justinbyrne2552]

Tip #6 leave your feelings at home

[@tek4]

Justin Byrne I had to say to my apprentice today to learn how to use differential feelings. House shit stays at home. Work stays at work.

[@MikesToolShed]

+tek413 yeah. It's fine if your not talkative and down in the dumps, but this one time a guy I worked with was crying all day, in the phone with his ex and kids and up and left at like 11 and I never saw him again, lol. Super emotional guy.

[@chrisjones6165]

Justin Byrne that's what hurt feelings reports are for

[@Brady.John87]

Justin Byrne the when I'm upset I just use my stress card

[@MrGravylegs]

Justin Byrne haha!! Exactly!! What are feelings anyways??

[@mikeclark1756]

6. Bring your lunch.

[@HoangNguyen-jf2wl]

Mike Clark that’s what I tell the guys who go to the roach coach. Save some money and time bring your lunch

[@847lucio]

Mike Clark #FACTS

[@mikechung6285]

step 6 part 2: Get yaself a good girl to make your lunch for you 😂

[@kokishogaz6608]

Ahahhahaa!😆😆😆

[@aesaehttr]

Eaten too many burritos

[@adamelliott6112]

If you're labeling with tape, write on it while it's still on the roll. You're welcome.

[@jonathanmitchell7411]

Typical example of apprentice-know-it- all. That idea sounds good, but it is easy for the tape to stretch and then shrink taking it off the roll and then becomes smudged and distorted. I do it that way on occasion that I have plenty of time and can let it dry fully and peel it carefully. But if you are in full swing it can be too time consuming

[@tyereksmith8946]

your comment/advoice is under rated no joke. writing on the roll is so easier for real man.👍

[@FxCKYEAHGUSTAVO]

not all heroes wear capes, you're a genius mate

[@petefernandes7106]

Or use label sticker. But if you do the write on the roll method. You have to use a razor knife to cut it off or you'll stretch it and mess up the label. You can also run the tape out over sometime that won't ruin the stick and write on it then cut it.

[@JeremiahLutherPritchett]

Adam Elliott nice

[@jusrobington]

Rule 6. Educate yourself. Read up in schematics, code, truble shooting guides. You should be a walking reference book.

[@Lets-Crusade-1095]

Rob Muss rule 7. Spelling. Learn it!

[@ElectronFlowSpecialist]

Lites. I saw a box labels CONTATORS. With a labeler and everything.

[@lachlanmackay6586]

TylerBear good electricians cant spell Haha

[@mikerusso5481]

@@lachlanmackay6586 but great ones can!

[@mikerusso5481]

@@Lets-Crusade-1095 I'm sure he knows how to spell seeing he spelled ''Schematic'' correctly lol and just forgot the O for an elementary grade level word.🤷‍♂

[@nkanellopoulos00]

If youre shadowing a journeyman, always keep ahead by looking at the next step. if your journeyman needs a tool, have it ready before he asks for it.

[@jakerolfe84]

KaddyShack00 dumb! If your journeyman have your shit with you. You're a pro, right?

[@ThatGuy-vi8ch]

But if you could do that, why would you not be the journeyman? By the time you'd get that good you'd be ready to test. Assuming you didn't go to trade school first.

[@jordanpimentel8182]

Does this mean, give a journeyman your tool for the next step?? Or would they rather use their own???

[@shane6450]

@@ThatGuy-vi8ch I can tell you people who commented never worked a job obtaining and requiring tools in your life. You're learning from the journeymen, so you're the one with two free hands sitting next to the tool bag, you get him the tool he needs. It shows your paying attention and itll all pay off.

[@pokechamp003]

wrong, the journeyman needs to bring his own tools, if he's not prepared he should GO HOME

[@flashesofblack4128]

This a GREAT VIDEO! When I was an apprentice electrician I had to develop thick skin because I was getting yelled at all the time and I kept my pie hole shut, but when these guys noticed that I wanted to learn as if my life depended on it, they then started teaching me about the ins and outs of being a journeyman electrician, ohms law and everything. When I received my journeyman's license, I treated my apprentices with respect but when they messed up I was fair but very firm. When they in turn became journeyman electricians they always thanked me for how I guided them through the whole apprenticeship program. I am retired now. I always loved having a trade that I was proud of. Every journeyman electrician knows what I am talking about.

[@SuperReallyNice]

When learning electrical, your life does depend on it.

[@russrockino-rr0864]

I have been in the trade for 24 years and I always try to treat my apprentices with respect. Yes. I expect them to pay attention and do what I ask, but I don't yell at them. I try to remain professional. I don't buy in to the Good old boy bullshit that says you have to treat apprentices like slaves. I also don't put up with younger journeyman who think they know everything. That being said, if an apprentice gets an attitude with me, I will straighten them out quickly, but diplomatically. If that does not work, then I may yell at them. I have worked with a lot of buttheads in my career, and all it does is make the day drag-out. The neatness comment was spot on. Good video. Thanks, Russ

[@olvera6710]

You sir must be awesome to work and learn from. I have always hated, the you have to put up with being treated like a slave or a stray dog because you are learning under someone. That makes people not want to work for you or go the extra mile. And a lot of places wonder why they can’t keep young employees.

[@Cmill0588]

That’s the best approach when training someone. Hard to learn when the trainer is an asshole and just pissing you off. I can’t stand the you’re my bitch and one day you’ll have a bitch mentality. Just makes for a toxic environment. You get respect when you give respect. That goes from the top down not just the bottom up.

[@pyroskink18]

should get a puppet dude.

[@ynamaxa]

GOLD!

[@brandont4545]

I agree with these tips accept the part about listening to a man that is being rude to you. A person with pride dont have to put up with a guy getting his rocks off yelling at you and making you feel like an idiot. I passed my test and am no longer an apprentice and i dont treat new people like a dog. I want my apprentices to love what they do. If your rude to them it makes them hate coming to work and noone can learn like that. Im not saying dont listen to the master or journeyman but i am saying dont be put down on a job when you can find a new job with a master electrician that doesnt mind helping you and talks to you the way a grown man should be talked to.

[@highvibegamer7251]

Brandon herring i agree i know there are rude journeymen out there that dont know how to talk to others without yelling or screaming at them probably cause theyve been in the service or theyre just socially awkward!!

[@Zanxsterr]

I’m a Plumber Apprentice. My first company, was the biggest assholes. I would ask a basic question and they would flip shits. 6 months down the road I’m working on a job, I have 3 plumber leads with me. They’re sitting in truck by their self for about 2 hours while I’m finishing and pouring concrete. They came in and said “dude this is suppose to be done today”. I stood up and tackled the guy and kept hitting him, I could not take it anymore. My new company, treats me with respect. I ask questions and they will break it down step by step no problem. I honestly don’t know why people are assholes. I can see why Plumbing is in need of plumbers. Work is hard, but the leads are dicks. I will never treat my apprentice with disrespect unless needed.

[@tyereksmith8946]

@@Zanxsterr well said bro

[@tyereksmith8946]

@@highvibegamer7251 👍

[@tyereksmith8946]

real talk

[@Indy509]

Rule #6 REPEAT! If the journeyman tells you something. Repeat what he just said.

[@jdspillers77]

"If you borrow it more than 3 times, you need to buy it." That couldn't be more true. I always followed the same rule as a mechanic. If I borrowed a tool from the lead tech, I wrote the tool down and then tried to pick it up from the Snap-On dealer on his weekly visit. Sound advice.

[@mrdoe7283]

🤣 snap-on = wasted money

[@TANQ31]

Hmmm that's weird. Never seen a shop owner or master technician without at least a minimum of a selection......or all Snapon.....must be because it's a waste of money.

[@mrdoe7283]

@@TANQ31 I guess auto mechanics are the only people that use tools. No snap on targets you saps because you're gullible. We don't buy that shit in industrial mechanic shops. Why?Simple, we don't think paying 400 dollars for a set of wrenches is worth buying. I had a snap-on guy come work in the shop, his shit didn't hold up to the abuse of working on industrial equipment. It's over priced and made in China (mostly). If I wanted to buy Chinese junk, I'd go with crapsman. At least I don't have to wait for the snap on guy to come around to return there over priced Chinese tools. Why pay premium prices for the same quality as all the other Chinese made brands. Hell Pittsburgh, has held up better then snap-on in my shop, for fraction of the money. You snap on guys, just like to brag.

[@troyselig9944]

"All work is to be done in a neat and workmanlike manner" is actually in the code book. 110.12

[@MikesToolShed]

I did know that was in the code, but I feel it needed to be on the list. "workman like manner" has a wide range of interpretations based on some of the crap I've seen.

[@wyattjohnston1156]

I read that as womanlike manner

[@ginger2770]

@@wyattjohnston1156 same

[@mitchjay2819]

6) after your first year you’ll start noticing how shitty some of the journeyman really are at their jobs.

[@StevieMcV]

Seems the older they get the less they care about how the job looks as long as it works...

[@aesaehttr]

Still an apprentice after three years but ... Heavily agreed. Still... Listen and shut up because the trade is run by idiots some time. Just definitely speak up if it's immediately dangerous.

[@aesaehttr]

"Label everything" people. It doesn't seem important. It is later.

[@danielestrada1995]

It’s like that at any job, I’m doing auto glass and the dudes that have been there 5+ years are doing shittier work than 1st year guys.

[@link6397]

@@danielestrada1995 Trust me, you will too.

[@awickedtribe]

Last Aug. 23 was my 50th anniversary as an electrcian. When I got in the trade I was carrying tools, getting coffee and lunch for three Journeymen. I cleaned up after them and did all the labor work.

[@kcklub]

Well done, great discipline. I hope to live as long as your years in the trade.

[@hachi180]

Fuck that I ain't no maid

[@cloane7857]

Always take a photo and label before you disconnect something you haven’t done before! So you know how to reconnect it.

[@LeeEverett1]

That's what I do, I'm extremely anal with taking pictures of things.

[@ronsshed886]

Avoid arrogance, it will surely pissoff any journeyman.

[@MikesToolShed]

Ron's Shed unless you actually get good enough to earn it (Which could take 10 years)

[@laszlovass7326]

My brother in law wired my home when I built it. Inspector walked up to the main panel and said, "This is one of the nicest panels I have ever seen, tell your electrical guy he is very good." He signed off all my electrical, got in truck and left. Yes he would be back many times for other inspections but never even mentioned electrical in any walk through, except to say how anal my electrician was, and it helped in my relationship with the inspector trusting me to fix any other issues after signing off so I could move along without reinspection. Your reputation means you can charge more and helps the whole project move along. Thank you brother in law.

[@barbarian818]

I think you forgot Rule 0 : stay safe! If you think you're being asked to do something that is unsafe, speak up! Back when I worked in the trade as an apprentice, I got asked to do things like: work on a live circuit, use a conductive (aluminium) ladder, use a ladder unsafely (step ladders against walls, ladders elevated with buckets or scaffolding etc) work at heights without proper fall arrest. Needless to say, I didn't work with that electrician very long. Your apprenticeship is portable, you can get it re-assigned to another electrician if you have to. When studying the electrical and building codes, also include studying the labour and union (if applicable) laws in your area. Get that working at heights training and certificate!

[@tek4]

I love being a journeyman. Fuck, it was so hard to keep my mouth shut for 5 years.

[@MikesToolShed]

+tek413 lol. Hell yeah it is. I tell someone to fuck off a couple times a year now (I generally work with good guys now)

[@millball]

This wouldve been funnier if you wore a sock puppet over your fist

[@Lazdinger]

“Buy tools”. That is my favorite tip of all.

[@franciscoburgos787]

These tips are spot on! For #2, I try to explain the “why we’re doing it this way” with the what we’re doing when I feel it helps. But if I’m short on time, or I feel my guy is too green to understand, I just need them to do exactly what I say. So I advise you green horns to write down notes when ur supervisor is talking.

[@juanlorenzo7341]

apprentice first year : bring kneepads and a broomstick your the dude that will do all the outlets and clean

[@robbkhalifa22]

Super accurate just started my apprentice two weeks ago nd thats all I do

[@juanlorenzo7341]

@@robbkhalifa22 were all been through there , im a journeyman now but usually the apprentice is the one making the journeyman job faster, the company sees the journeyman making thr money for the company, stay safe ! goodluck on your apprenticeship

[@zacharyziskowski6710]

Fake electricians even apprentices are unable to pickup brooms let someone else clean it

[@ItsaRomethingeveryday]

Facts, I did the lights and plug ins, the journeyman did the panels and junctions

[@zforde809]

@@robbkhalifa22 how’s ur apprentiship going bro? Thinking about doing one

[@zestadonniawakabayashi6383]

I love how clear you are. Thank you. I'm trying to get my son to become an electrician.

[@j.c.smithprojects]

great advice on everything! asking "why" you are doing what you are doing is a big one. i found when i went through the apprenticeship and i asked questions like that the journeyman took more of an interest in teaching me more of the theory and efficiency of the job. i over labeled as well. the backs of the box cover plates looked like a menu board at a restaurant.

[@flawmore]

@Mike's Tool Shed It's amazing how well the craft translates into being an electrician in Sweden. Every word you said goes to heart, even though we have a completely different electrical system and ways of working (50hz, 230V single phase/400V 3-phase) and don't use loose wires in the walls. It's all in tubes, which makes re-wireing much easier once the wall is completed! The essence is exactly the same, even the old tools you keep around for when you need to abuse something. Great video.

[@robswrenches9501]

Excellent tips Mike.👍 When I worked at Generac, anyone could open the panel of different generators and detect which one came off of our line. The three of us that wired the sets on our line were meticulous about how we did them, down to the bends in the wires. It was our signature. Not to mention that we had to initial everything we torqued or tightened to spec anyway, so any failures in the field could be traced back to the line and the individual on the line.

[@xxdre86xx]

these are really good tips for newer guys starting their careers in the trade. Thanks for taking the time to make this. Love your videos!

[@InYourFaceBudday]

The less you have to bother a journeyman or a foreman for a tool, the better. You get stuff done without bothering them and they appreciate it.

[@MikesToolShed]

InYourFaceBudday 100% agree just as long and your doing things the right away

[@Kevin_Hutchison]

Jesus christ yes lol if they aren't investing in tools they don't care

[@FxCKYEAHGUSTAVO]

Damn bro if i could like this video twice i would. Thank you for taking the time to make this video, i cant stress enough how accurate and relatable it really is. Im almost 6 months in working for an electrical company and yeah it really be like that. Thank you for making these kind of videos that i know a lot of new apprentices like myself will really appreciate when starting to learn a new trade. You're awesome and cant wait to watch more, you just got a new subscriber (-:

[@professoravalanche246]

You're a legend mate. 2 years in and some of these were a real eye opener. Started to apply them at work and they've really helped.

[@Ray-tf2ps]

Also, always come to work prepared, have your tools ready before the day start. I usually ask my boss or other tradesman what we are doing the next day so i know what to expect and what tools to prepare.

[@SteezySquirel]

THANKS BRO, I've been having so many nerves about getting my apprenticeship. I'm currently a trade student, I bust my ass to make sure my work is as neat as it can be, but I'm probably lacking on the quickness side. You cleared up a solid amount, and gave some great advice. Keep it up man!

[@maynedon666]

I start my electrician apprenticeship in 2 hours I haven't been to sleep I'm so excited!!!!

[@mcs-21277]

I'm 6 months in. Hope you get a nice journeyman. Always a few bad apples that ruin it for you.

[@maynedon666]

Beyonson 21 oh yeah no doubt thanks man

[@prodigyx112]

Tayys Gaming how’s it going so far? Is it a learning experience and you like it or you’re hating it?

[@AlfieTank]

@@prodigyx112 Me and you both know by now he is Jaded as fck by Now 😂😂😂

[@Sklumbo]

So how are you doing thinking of doing this after hs this year

[@TheChadavis33]

As a 1st year I agree with this advice. I think the frustrating thing about it, is I want to ask questions, and I want to know the “why.” It helps me learn faster. Unfortunately it can frustrate some journeymen, and they don’t feel like explaining. Instead it’s just “do this.” Which to me is inefficient, because when it’s a multiple step process, I have to memorize every step, which can create chances for mistakes. But if I understand the “why”, I see the reasons, I see the path and I don’t need to memorize individual steps anymore.

[@maxrussian7362]

I relate to that 200%, sir. It is very truth about the "why". I'm the same way

[@briansalazarleal6829]

Join a school. Either IEC or IBEW. They will help you out.

[@dkmodder4405]

This is actually helpful because I started a co-op placement at Canadian Tire and all these things you mention happen to me and these tips are all applicable! Thank you so much.

[@ryankilduff8694]

Dude I’ve been an electrician for 36 years. You were absolutely spot on with this. I wouldn’t change a thing.

[@Travatain]

Great video, I agree with everything you said. After working in mainly domestic properties for about forty years I know why labelling is so important. I always labelled circuits in my fuseboards, but most electricians didn't bother, so then I had to mess around trying to find the fuse/MCB that I needed. This often meant pulling each fuse and upsetting the householders by causing them to have to reset all their mains alarm clocks, timers, etc. All unnecessay work, which could have been avoided by proper labelling from the start. So, I hope as many young apprentices as possible watch your video and take your advice (on all the tips).

[@maschinemademan9053]

2 years in the trade and I’m happy to see that I’m doing all the correct steps. Thanks for the knowledge!

[@Tiegen.Reibin]

How’s it going now man

[@alexhelie4941]

Been a first year apprentice since late August 2017.. this guy knows what's up. Couldn't agree more with what ya said bud. Great video!

[@if9716]

started my apprenticeship in March & watched this video before my first day. Took on all these tips and am flying, thanks very much Mike, great videos keep it up 👍

[@badguy622]

This is an awesome video, a lot of what I’ve been taught but in a more detailed fashion. I’m a first year apprentice and I work under my dad and uncle who have over 38 years in the trade each. One tip to add they told me, carry a notepad around. Write down the things you need to remember and a to do list.

[@petercory8128]

As an electrical apprentice (late to the game) I 100% agree with all of your tips. On tip two I actually had a boss who didn't want me to ask a lot of questions because he "didn't have the time" but like you say ask as many questions as you need to make sure you get it right the first time. (I could go on with my experiences but I will leave it there) Thanks for a 'work ethic' affirming video

[@matttomlin1024]

I'm going to college in the spring to become an electrician and get my technical degree this is my first time seeing your channel and it's already helping me out a bunch. Subscribed!

[@1channeluser]

Good video mike,im a current apprentice and luckily I already knew some of these things your mentioning..keep the good vids coming I agree with neatness,your work Carries your reputation

[@ericcurry9954]

thank you sir, I needed a brief entry level explanation of being an apprentice, to share with apprentices. Thank you

[@jetjazz05]

When you say "neatness matters" I think about all the times I've done something, sealed something, caulked something, rewired something on my car... I'm not an electrician, but I'm a hobbyist of many things, and I can say that being neat doesn't just help to see the job was done correctly, it helps ensure the thing you did lasts longer. For instance, I bought good quality silicone sealant and did a vent on my roof, I made sure the edges of that silicone look like a machine stamped it out nice and smooth, and that vent still looks great. One of the OTHER vents a guy fixed when I had him fix roof damage I had, the silicone he used was shitty and cheap and he globbed it allover, and now it's crumbling apart and pieces are falling off... the elements are getting into the nooks and crannies of that filthy job and making it come apart faster. You do it nice, you do it with good tools, you do it with longevity in mind, and you'll save yourself time and money down the road.

[@minkis18]

Label everything!!! Thank you! I work building maintenance and this can save me hours. There's nothing like finding a circuit you need to work on but it's not labeled. Even worse when the breaker schedules aint accurate.

[@davidberthelsen9963]

As a low voltage guy, I agree with you on the labeling. Everybody in our company has label makers to label up the cables. Helps shit loads.

[@jeremiahjones137]

Changing careers at 40 to an electrician. This is some good advice

[@Gottalovetigers]

Jeremiah Jones that’s awesome 👏🏽 how’s it going for you?

[@PieRobot314]

How's the trade for you. Impressive switch

[@a.tanner8524]

That’s what I’m doing too. Good luck to you.

[@marka.arcenas5211]

Im a security guard for 4 years im changing my carreer planning on becoming a electrician i hope it'll work out for me. Im taking classes for the trade any serious advise you guys can give me. Thanks

[@santosvilla8607]

Right there with you.

[@NaluRash]

Thanks for the tips man.

[@vurasi5616]

This knowledgeable talking hand is helping me begin my apprenticeship. High five.

[@muppetmower77]

Excellent video dude! One thing that my boss beat into my head that served me well is NEVER WALK AWAY FROM SOMETHING WITHOUT FINISHING IT!

[@JustComeflywithme]

Thanks Mike. As an electrical apprentice, your videos are a great help!

[@Alex-jo2oi]

How has the trade been for ya man

[@HerbertHopkins799]

Being nice goes a long way on most jobs. Helping guys carry gear around if you have a free hand, jump their cart over extension cords, etc... Being nice attracts nice people that can help you, guys that will give advice and not just shove you aside and do something without showing you how it should be done.

[@trink4210]

Really helpful, nearing the end of my college class for commercial installer & hoping to get hired on, thank you for the advice

[@itspacofoo]

Thank you so much for the tips man I barely started the trade in electrical apprentice 3 days ago all I keep on me is the pliers screw driver marker and a measuring tape and a driller

[@13mudgirl]

3:00 its a valiant statement usually not the case, people think they want you to ask questions and do it right the first time but realistically they want you to be a gifted psychic and know how without saying a single thing. Oh and if you do ask sometimes you encounter the i told you 5 times guy and realistically he didnt say shit.

[@BreathEmpowerment]

I've never had a lead get mad about asking questions...even when I could tell they were busy and a little frustrated they had to deal with showing me something, they didn't get mad at me or chew me out because I wanted to make sure I was doing it right the first time.

[@jillybeenerw1165]

I only accept apprentices that have some electrical understanding. Enough to keep people safe and understand that apprenticeship is 50% from the employer and 50% of your own free time learning. The best in any construction discipline are the ones who strive to be the best and show they are worthy of the gift of a paid education, it takes sacrifice. There is always college for those that dont want to earn funds while they intern and go into debt for the privilege to be in debt, by kinder more civil career paths, that pay about the same many less. Its up to you. I know the industry is changing and soon they will be changing apprenticeship programs to 2 years at structured tech colleges, an education you pay for, and then an additional 2 yr hands on under a journeyman internship at the same apprentice low wage (youll lose 2 years of wages and pay for the school and do homework on your own time 🙂) im actually glad to see this change, the 18-25 yrs olds of today were not born into lives where dads worked on cars and did their own general plumbing and electrical, and then passed that on to their children, this generation is born into high tech products and fast changing environments, attention is a thing of the past, its not bad thing, it is evolution, and soon robots will do trade skills jobs. Emotional problems solved.

[@andyt3938]

We don't need nice guys. We need good electricians. Having been through two different Apprenticeships, it takes 5 years to be good at anything. No one learns from getting everything right- mistakes must happen for progress. Neatly as time provides. 98% of customers don't care, they just want the lights on.

[@DLmohh]

Andy T lmfao this is so true.. Especially when it's late and you still need to run wite throught the walls and you're just opening holes and drilling through the studs as fast as you can 😂

[@AT-pw9dx]

Not true. Customers also want people they trust.

[@andyt3938]

A T it is always assumed your trustworthy- “soft skills” Like speaking and writing clear, telling the truth is a nonnegotiable. If I don’t trust you i walk away.

[@Thatboyroy]

5 years to be good at anything lol?? must not be too good at much are you

[@andyt3938]

Roy Garcia yep 5 years. How many kids have you worked with fresh out of college? They have 4 year degrees and are clueless. Have you gone to school or been through an Appenticeship? If not, you should consider it. Dumb people get a job. Smart people get whatever they want.

[@ryanjones678]

Great advice that I will apply in my electrical trade. A year 3 apprentice that wants to learn as much about this field as possible

[@TheYonkel]

Just started training. Thanks for posting.

[@bboyorc]

Swallow your pride and do what your told. I learned this in the military good advice i wish i knew before i joined!

[@qmaster94]

thank you for making this. i’m nervous and about to start my apprenticeship journey. currently studying for the aptitude test, which i’ll hopefully pass. I’m excited and trying to learn as much as i can before i get in there. Thank you for making this!

[@DJVICTOR-es7gs]

How are you doing now bud? I’m about to get into it after a graduate in a couple years so I’d like to know

[@kevinf.1702]

So how did it go?

[@vrz2000]

Hope it went well for you man, I scored a 9 pretty easily so I’m sure you did fine. My first day is tomorrow with fisk electric

[@IMPACTRATED]

Im so glad i came across this video and ur channel. Gonna be starting my apprenticeship soon. Great video!

[@tristanalexander6955]

Huge fan Mike, would love to see more videos like this! Or just stories from the job/advice (2nd year from BC)

[@MikeBrownOhio]

Mechanics don't like to share tools...Been there done that...

[@josephvjames4975]

Perhaps, this is why the trade is hurting for people. Too many a$$holes bossing people around.

[@laszlovass7326]

Joseph Velasquez No. To many boys who do not aspire to be men. There are fewer who will work hard and like it. To those who yell too much, bid higher on jobs and then you might not get upset when things go wrong, or go work at Radio shack.

[@realmoe6410]

Laszlo Vass what trade are you in and how much money does a electrian make

[@brandont4545]

Thats true, im an electrician and i made it passed my apprentice program and i hated being treated like an idiot. I dont mind being bossed around but i do mind someone yelling at me. There is no need in acting like a child. A person cant learn when he or she is being treated like a child.

[@lionelhutz5137]

I do agree with you as I worked in construction for 12 years (high rise towers) and it was ab-so-fucking-lutely *brutal* when i started out at 22. You're treated like dog shit by miserable alcoholics with short tempers and violent tendencies. A lot of the guys I worked with were ex cons who had no other employment options but construction and hated their lot in life (it was a depressing work environment). I'm glad I went through the fire young because it helped condition me for the other trades and what to expect on the social side of the work (I have a rough, "Don't fuck with me and we'll get along fine" exterior because of my prior construction experience). *Most* people are reasonable and if you show respect they'll reciprocate.

[@johnsullenger9677]

True..as a current new apprentice I get tired of being treated and talked to like shit. This is the absolute worst way to train anybody for anything. Just getting into the program is not an easy task, and then to be treated like s*** when you get there is ridiculous. And yes then they wonder why nobody wants to do these jobs.

[@adhamfares3533]

Thanks mate, that talk was good efficient advice. Keep what you do.

[@JPitt1070]

I’m a journeyman but I watched this to see if I agree and I couldn’t agree more with the neatness tip. When I first started where I am now they got on me about how slow I was but they never said anything about how neat and clean my work was, speed came later.

[@369ZIR]

I can’t wait to be an electrician. I just dropped out of uni.

[@w1lbur823]

Good decision I tried both fuckn hated uni

[@369ZIR]

W1LBUR oh really? Did you also feel like uni was draining the life out of you?

[@w1lbur823]

Yeah bro definitely

[@TANQ31]

Keep at it bro. Blue collar has a lot of different needs at different positions. Dont get discouraged, learn learn learn. If electrician isn't your bag, we could always use more automotive technicians 👍🏻

[@cdub.91]

There’s a lot of solid trades. Just find your niche and what you enjoy doing. Electrician, pipefitter/plumber, glazier, carpenter, hvac, sheet metal, etc. It’s all construction. You’ll work hard. Just different specialties. Unions pay a lot too.

[@saintq3888]

At work I put my Poker Face on , my boss questioned me if I like the job or not . 10 minutes before we start the shift and we are having coffe I joke, speak, overall interact with everybody, when the shift starts ... it's another story ! I told him, you pay me to get the job done, nothing else, goes without saying I was never yelled at or offended by anyone ! Fly under the radar and let the noob take all the flak ! :)

[@caseyrobinette805]

Good advice. I try to be like this.

[@lost_wave7352]

Thanks for the tips! I’m going to be starting as a greenhorn next year.

[@shawn576]

Good tip on neatness. We had to do that when I worked in a chemistry lab. Everything was spotless when being inspected by groups like the FDA.

[@mythology0007]

Love the video man, I'm a first-year myself at the JATC. Definitely be watching more videos to get some more good advice! Thanks.

[@twiggs0]

Hell yeah man, local 343 in MN here. Started June 20th. The contractor I'm working with is keeping me after laying off 85% of the other folks that were working with the contractor.

[@mythology0007]

@@twiggs0 Well keep it up buddy I left that message 3 years ago I just completed my journeyman's exam in Oregon!!

[@BlastCODM]

I am 20 yo looking to become an electrician ..thanks for the tips!👍

[@Vlad7sokruta]

Bro. Same.

[@cameronbedrava120]

i hope an apprenticeship will help me learn more than school does i dont know shit😂

[@bryanbridges2987]

@@cameronbedrava120 Lol, same here. I have two degrees, and on my 1st job I was TERRIBLE. I had a boss who rushed me too much, but I myself was still awful. Have two degrees and couldn't do jack lol.

[@yitzharos]

Th a la for the advice man. I'm heading into day1 this morning. God bless.

[@manolispapadimitropoulos3334]

This video is great and the rules apply everywhere for all people new to a job: 1) Don't talk back to superiors, 2)Ask questions to understand what are you doing and why, 3) Take good notes of what you are doing, 4) Don't be sloppy at work and 5)invest at the things you need and take good care of them

[@just4jackson]

Dude I really appreciate this video I'm starting my apprentice program in August and I'm trying to soak up as much knowledge as I can before I go in and this helped alot.

[@infiniteblue895]

Justin Jackson how's it going

[@SnowyGolem]

How is it going now?

[@MC-nw4ok]

Anyone learn any cool tips?

[@LeeEverett1]

How did it go for you?

[@elechickin3837]

I started working in the electrical trade when I was 16 and my dad was my crew leader and he literally gave me this same talk

[@ZipKickGo]

I agree with number 4 so much. Get good, then get fast. Nail down the work, the procedure, the cleanliness! Then work on speeding up your groove.

[@sarahbarnes3605]

I'm just waiting on my test date. I hope it comes soon! Thanks for the video.

[@ElectronFlowSpecialist]

I’m tripping out here. Word for word this is me at work. Especially explaining to the apprentices the part about neatness with inspectors. I get a lot a shit about it. “It’s not a million dollar job” is what I’m told. Good stuff.

[@XxGR4V3R41D3RxX]

I've got someone I work with that's always making fun of me for the amount of tools I carry on my person as I work. He says I only need 2 screw drivers: a phillips and a flat. I carry 4: a phillips, a flat, a Demo (beater), and a twirly for plates. Each tool I carry is used everyday and serves its own purpose!

[@XxGR4V3R41D3RxX]

I actually had a 10 in 1, but it mysteriously vanished on site one day. Never got around to buying a new one

[@ElectronFlowSpecialist]

Fuck em. Carry what you want.

[@lachlanmackay6586]

Ironic considering im trying to create a 75% toolkit and i get laughed at for not taking the whole lot hahaha

[@cloak7986]

I really appreciate it I just got started in this trade about a month ago and thankfully I have a coin foreman and great coworkers that have been helping learn the right way. And you are so right about keeping quiet and doing what your told

[@JJH-jc1fg]

How is it going so far?

[@frabcisbaez3681]

Thanks i love your video keeping up k thinking going for electricians. Thanks

[@garrettlees]

Yes, label everything -- including your own tools! :)

[@OA1998.]

I found an awsome boss and he litrally went through all these tips with me. He's awsome I had a shitty hammer and the dude went out of his way to buy me a £27 hammer!

[@MikesToolShed]

+Jason A thnats an amazing mentor, I've worked with some great guys but no one bought me a hammer

[@tonyp2878]

First year apprentice. I am 37 yes yes i know its kinda late to reroll but i have decided My foreman bought me CK square tool bag and help me a lot,puts me on price work often. I can do second fix on my own now also can do 1 fix a flat but i am still not very confident, i know almost everything but keep confusing myself. The other guy bought me small stabila level which is 24 pounds and Milwaukee M18 multitool cos i use milwaukee power tools. Most interesting and challenging thing is fault finding and fixing it, thats very hard. No regrets i ve changed my path and turned into electrics. I go to guildford college)

[@MikesToolShed]

Tony P that's awesome man. it's a really good skilled trade to be in. you can go in so many different directions once you learn the basics.

[@TimWhippen]

Tony P I'm 33 and trying to start the apprenticeship program through IBEW, never to late to start. I needed a change bad.

[@int9814]

Tony P it's never too late bro, good work.

[@snart7548]

Super helpful video, totally agree with the point of asking a lot of questions as well, I always ask a ton of questions and it just shows that you want to do the job right the first time and your wanting to improve and learn.

[@ItsaRomethingeveryday]

Am thankful that when I was an apprentice for a journeyman, he was a very patient and good guy, he took the time to walk me threw each step and showed me exactly how without any attitude or bitch work, it was very enjoyable and educational, I am still trying to obtain my journeymens certification, have wired countless places including my own house, it's a Great way to save money as well as make extra cash

[@kenneychappuis1853]

Be the first guy on the job and the last to leave Don't sit down Keep the FUCK OFF YOUR PHONE ! If you have to check the time buy a watch !

[@MikesToolShed]

+Kenney Chappuis I'm gonna do a part 2 and include these

[@wondershpiel]

Good info, Mike. Thanks. Thinking about seeking an electrical apprenticeship but interested in carpentry too. I like the artistic aspects of some carpentry areas, but I like the troubleshooting aspect to electrical. I know this might be hard to say given how varied electrical work and job sites can be, but if you had to break down the time spent by a typical electrician in these task categories, what percentages would you assign to each? Planning New Systems, Installing New Systems/Components, Troubleshooting Existing Systems/Components, Repairing Existing Systems/Components. Thanks again!

[@nycnow811]

Thank you I appreciate the advice.

[@azurestar4234]

Older video but still applies. Year 2 apprentice working in a crew of 5 plus one office worker. Ive just now gotten to where im used to the job. Will pass these videos to our newest helper