How Much Do Electricians Make?

[@MadElectrician]

As mentioned in this video, these wages reflect IBEW wages for Local 48 (Portland, Oregon). Depending on where you live and the cost of living, your local’s wages may either be more or less.

[@fidelcollazo4262]

Nice video thanks for all the info brother

[@MadElectrician]

It’s my pleasure man. And thanks for the video suggestion! Your suggestion is the reason why I made this one 👍🏼

[@20yearolddoomer39]

I'm starting portland community college in the spring and I'm going for the trade route more specifically electrician.

[@MadElectrician]

Right on man! I would definitely suggest checking out and considering applying for IBEW Local 48 too. The schooling is free and the training center is known as one of the best in the nation. You actually won’t need any prior schooling for it, but if you have any classes relating to the electrical field in any way then it will definitely help increase your chances on getting in.

[@20yearolddoomer39]

@@MadElectrician i live close to that place do you think getting experience at pcc apritiship could give me a head start

[@hanktelly4261]

I’m retired now but worked IBEW Local 3 in NYC !!! The money was great but doesn’t mean anything if your not happy doing what you do. To me being a electrician completing a job or a phase of a job is instant gratification. Most days you don’t do the same thing which puts you in a rut. Not many jobs give you that. I never regret becoming an electrician.

[@Boc3phu5]

I'm looking at this exact union! Is it good? Do you work all over NYC?

[@Flips44]

I just signed up I start the test in September

[@jamessolis5301]

Just found this channel. Looking at a career change after the virus rocked my industry. Just turned 29.. Definitely a humbling experience.

[@MadElectrician]

I'm really sorry to hear that. This pandemic has really taken a tole on lots of different industries. Thankfully this industry is pretty resilient to things like this. I wish you the best of luck with your pursuit of this career if this is what you end up going after!

[@TheRepublicOfJohn]

Do it! I'm a journeyman Inside Wireman out of Local 494 in Milwaukee. Our total package is somewhere around 65/hr, $44ish on the check plus benefits. I wish I could give you exact #s but our contract year starts June 1st every year and I don't know what the exact numbers are because I don't know what our new raise is. But I can say, as a single guy claiming 1 on my W-4, I take home $1175 after taxes in a normal 40/hr week and I don't have to pay out of pocket for health insurance premiums or retirement. In 494, we get paid our standard wages for day school as well. We also have one night class per week (3hrs) that are not paid but tuition and books are paid for for those first 3 semesters. After that, we do have to pay for books and tuition, but by then, you're making serious money and tuition and books for the semester are less than 1 weeks wages.

[@jpk232]

Same, you in the restaurant/hospitality industry?

[@jamessolis5301]

@@jpk232 yupp, was a GM of a restaurant. Found a job in construction that pays decent, but always have OT. Working it until I can get in. I applied a few weeks to late to get in this year 🥲

[@jamessolis5301]

@@TheRepublicOfJohn I'm definitely trying to get in. I applied a few weeks too late unfortunately. But my app is in and just waiting for the test date. (Was told that'd be around September) So just studying and waiting. This would be for Local 26 D.C.

[@wsmoran]

Waiting on my aptitude test here in Seattle with local 46. Making a career jump after over a decade of sales. Your channel, along with ElectricianU have been a great resource.

[@Lazcano9]

When you enter the apprenticeship what type of test do you take is it hard what should I study

[@Lazcano9]

Looking into this career but im scared of the testing

[@michaelprendergast7088]

@@Lazcano9 you take an aptitude test based on math and English comprehension

[@adolfodedios8679]

Have you taken the test yet??

[@wsmoran]

@@adolfodedios8679 yes, scored an 8 out of 9

[@FigFirearms]

22 years old. Been kinda lost as to where to go next, I've been working at an amazon warehouse, I plan on trying to join my local IBEW soon. Haven't been this excited in a while.

[@MadElectrician]

That's so great to hear! I would obviously highly recommend this career. Check out my "20 Reasons Why I Love Being an Electrician" video if you haven't yet. More reasons to get pumped! I wish you the best of luck in your journey to becoming an apprentice electrician. Feel free to reach out any time with questions that you might have.

[@frankg3rd1]

Make that call !!!! Be prepared...the apprenticeship can take 5 to 6 years. Your gonna get frustrated...layoffs....travel. In those moments just stay cool and think of the prize. By the time your 28 ....youll be so happy youve stayed the course. Make that call !!!!!!!!!

[@jesussaves6510]

Refresh on math bro me too

[@JaRa911]

You won’t make it just stay at Amazon. In California there is only about 30k registered general electricians EVER. There is a reason there is so few of us

[@lastchancebitch1314]

Make sure you don't became a CW

[@ryanlord24]

I just applied to my local I.B.E.W. recently I really hope I get accepted I did 6 years in the Navy after high school as an electrician so I have a lot of experience already and really enjoyed doing it. I just can't wait any longer and really want to start working that's why I'm here watching this lol. 40+ hour work weeks sound amazing I'm used to 90+ with no overtime pay and a lot of sea time stuck on a ship so I'm ready for anything.

[@dillonb1228]

and if you don't want to support a family 6 figures as a single man is living the dream

[@MadElectrician]

No kidding!

[@priceandpride]

No kid life is where it’s at

[@dave7701]

Union Electricians easily 70+ hrly.

[@thedude3189]

@@dave7701 you're kidding?!

[@joeyork9891]

@@thedude3189 I'm guessing he's adding benifits in there

[@ianlongenbaugh9578]

Great job on your postings. As an IBEW local 6 member, I can attest to a great long and successful career. All the non union naysayers need to hear from genuine members such as you. Keep up the great work. This is COMET in action. Suggestion: consider bringing guests on to help share experience and learned information to educate the uneducated.

[@abcdef-kx2qt]

show us all a exel spread sheet graph showing out of work vs waiting time for dispatch for the last 10 years !!!!

[@Sk3letor]

Im really glad you talked about the reality about having to take a pay cut, ever since I started watching your videos I’ve been brushing up on my math to be ready, the only that has been holding me back is having to take the pay cut, I make 22 right now so it’s sucks losing $5 I think starting wage at my local is 17, but either way like you mention it’ll be worth it, it was nice to hear those words or reassurance

[@abcdef-kx2qt]

don't be a fool $$$$. this is the start first an inch !!! it never stops !!!

[@MegaOruiz]

Take the pay cut. I make 42 an hour as a Laborer and I'm taking a pay cut to 18. Trust me money don't mean a think if you hate what you do and wanna do something thats better in the long run

[@TxSparkee]

Lu 60 San Antonio Jman, just turned out last year. Signed on the books here in 46 and 76. Best decision I ever made was starting the apprenticeship. Looking to transition from construction to industrial maintenance and PLC work now as I’ve always enjoyed working with controls and troubleshooting. I have opportunities now that I never dreamed would be available to me just 8 years ago thanks to the the union and apprenticeship. I love this trade.

[@carmineglitch]

Posting cause I just started my first 1 week of my Apprenticeship after waiting 11 months. Thanks dude, loving the job

[@MadElectrician]

Heck yeah!! Congratulations!! Thanks for sharing! ⚡️

[@topMonger]

This man is a genius

[@senna138]

I've been a union painter/paper hanger in the Seattle area for 16 years. I'm so tired of it. We had our first kid in September and I'm in the middle of my paid family leave. Over the years I've spent in the field I've noticed the sparkys, plummers and elevator constructors look the most content at their jobs. With my disposition I'm leaning towards starting over in another trade as an electrician. I'd never consider going non-union. Thank you for posting this eye opening video...

[@sweetsteven217]

Join IBEW. Been a member for more than a decade. I wouldn’t trade it for anything else. Other jobs can’t compete with their benefits and pay......depending on local, how much work they have for the duration, and overtime.....which is the only jobs I go to otherwise it’s a waste of time.

[@travismesser2152]

Herman :) Hop on in! Local 46 Seattle jw’s make $60.82 hourly. Currently in contract negotiations to get more :) I work lots of OT so my take home is an upwards of $13k take home depending on the hours I’m working. Low of $8,020 monthly take home. Not a bad gig

[@dortcharmy11]

@@travismesser2152 how much pay per hr for some one just starting out

[@SvenDzahov]

@@dortcharmy11 depends on where you live. In a big city area its going to be like $22-24 an hour minus union dues. I’m in wisconsin and for me it was $18.13 minus union dues. Either way, considering I was fresh out of highschool and realized that law degree I was chasing wasn’t for me. Well worth it. In a few years I will be making $88,000 a year while my former classmates will be looking at 4 more years of school. I think i made the right choice

[@henryventura2639]

I'm in the same boat. I'm ready for this change.

[@tenniswithhenry572]

I appreciate it. As a 17 year old trying to figure out what to do, this meant a lot to me.

[@thefunkstone5153]

Just want to say thank you for all your content! I just got my rank for the IBEW local 48 apprenticeship. I ranked 38. Your videos definitely helped me! Hopefully ill get the call in the next couple months. Also just want to add the math exam was a lot harder than I was expecting. I paid out for a test prep program designed to pass the test. Well worth the 50 bucks.

[@firstnamelastname1219]

Made a comment a few months ago while I was living in Japan mentioning my interest in IBEW Local 48. Well 6 months later Im here in Portland currently applying to the Union. Portland is nothing like I thought it would be and i'm diggin it here. Im seriously stoking at this opportunity as my wife and I want to start a family IMMEDIATELY! My aptitude test is on the 6th and i'm more than nervous. Spent the last 2 weeks relearning all of pre-algebra, algebra basics and algebra 1. Going for Inside Wireman of course. NO EXCUSES, DO IT NOW!!!!!!!!!!!

[@MadElectrician]

Wow, that's so awesome to hear! I'm wishing you the best of luck on your aptitude test! Take every step of the application very seriously and do your absolute best. It sounds like you are, which is great! Let me know if you have any questions for me regarding any of the steps. My videos should hopefully cover what you will need to know though.

[@Auffinaugh]

When I changed from food service to the IBEW, my hourly pay went up 9 cents, but my take home was $80 more per week.

[@alantzul1879]

Elaborate

[@Alex-jo2oi]

Hell yeah buddy. I’m 21 working at a union shop until I get in. Hopefully by summer. I’m hype!!

[@MadElectrician]

So awesome to hear Alejandro! I think you’ll be really happy once you’re finally in! Stoked for you! ⚡️

[@assassin7250]

Hello Alex, I’m so lost. I’m 18 and Idk where to start but I want to become electrician

[@Alex-jo2oi]

@@assassin7250 go on Reddit or just watch Mad Electricians videos. There’s tons of info nowadays. I’m still waiting to get in. Reapplying in a month or so and hopefully getting in next time they take people in. It’s just very competitive. You need experience or have to know people. If you really want it, you’ll get it. Just keep pushing.

[@chrisbeatty2147]

Hey man , love your videos! Full of information regarding what to expect from this career. I’ve never been hands on really other then working on my car and your videos give me motivation to further a career boost. My future father in law is a journeyman in IBEW local 351 here in South Jersey and he is part of motivation on becoming an electrician. Just about three days away from taking my aptitude test👍🏻

[@benjamintorres9211]

Hey man just wanted to say i love these types of videos. I was in the non-union for 4 years and it took me 3 years to get into Local 400 recently last week, yes im taking a paycut but ik in the long run it’ll be worth it for my family and career. Your videos helped convince me to join the IBEW despite what all my non-union coworkers would tell me

[@uglyaldo3268]

just got my acceptance letter to my local! just waiting for them to call to start work!

[@MadElectrician]

Wow, congratulations! So exciting!! ⚡️

[@hughmungus581]

good shit

[@Bazeingstone]

I love this channel, I'm a highschool homeschooler and your videos are perfect for all the big questions I've been trying to figure out, Thank you so much, keep up the great work

[@MadElectrician]

Hey Matthew! That's so awesome to hear! I was actually homeschooled until 7th grade, and then I went to public high school. So I know what that's like! I'm happy to hear that my channel has been a good resource for you. If you have any questions for me then don't hesitate to reach out. I'm more than happy to help when I can.

[@Bazeingstone]

@@MadElectrician Could you do a video on union vs. non-union? I'd love to hear your take, thank you!

[@MadElectrician]

Yes! It might not be titled that exactly but that will be what it will be about. It’s pretty high on my list of future video ideas. Thanks for the suggestion! ⚡️

[@leightontomlinson919]

Great video man. Shout out to Toronto Local 353. I'm 2 years into my apprenticeship and have grown so much because of it. It's a real eye opener and what I always like to say "a college of the world". Meeting new people and working with others, forming relationships and different perspectives on life. Learning how buildings come to life and how stuff actually works is an education like no other. In my local we have an extra term of apprenticeship called a pre-apprentice which make 35% of a journeyman wage. Cant lie it sucked but its slowly starting to build into something that will definitely be worth it in the end.

[@fatmanjam]

I’m also in Toronto and looking for a good pre apprenticeship program. Any recommendations?

[@JBarnes917]

I’m with the local 26 in Washington DC we have about the same pay scale. Keep spreading the word on the Ibew.

[@MadElectrician]

Right on man! That’s great to hear. I think it will be good for people to see that it’s not just here at 48 where we have these great wages/ pay scale. I definitely will. Thanks brother ⚡️

[@aidafunes737]

Justin is it hard to get into DC? I live in Maryland and I plan on calling local 26 but I’m curious about how long it takes? I ask because Ny said 2 years or so so I am curious if DC has a similar time frame

[@JBarnes917]

@@aidafunes737 well COVID has everything a little messed up right now but our books are almost empty.. it wouldn’t surprise me if you went right out. We for sure don’t have a 2 year wait.

[@msullivan403]

@@JBarnes917 how long have you been in local 26? Looking to apply soon. Are they taking applicants during covid?

[@JBarnes917]

@@msullivan403 I’ve been in for 6-7 years. I know you can’t just go into the hall but there are people working there. You would have to call about the applying, I’m not sure what the process is right now.

[@shaunrowley9070]

So thankful to have found your channel. I’m moving from Florida to Portland as a journeyman and I haven’t found any info on KZbin about local 48 until now. Thank you.

[@MadElectrician]

Hey Shaun! Right on! Local 48 is a great local. Any idea what company you’ll end up working for? I’m with OEG. I’m glad that you’re enjoying my channel!

[@matthewlizzio7431]

I’m 19. I’ve been doing electrical for about 7 months now. I’m trying to get into the union this month. Kinda scared tbh. Just doing a follow up! I got Placement testing this month! If I pass I get an interview! Wish me luck!

[@jerryrivera1544]

How do you get into the union? I heard it’s hard

[@trogdorman121]

Show up well dressed and ready to work! Worked for me!

[@AMOXIBEATS1]

Holy fuck Mathew like skateboard Mathew from Michigan?

[@trogdorman121]

My local union has been very busy, definitely a great time to join!

[@AMOXIBEATS1]

@@trogdorman121 how’d the aptitude test go for ya? It’s been a few years since I’ve used math regularly

[@treveille]

This is def worth it it’s gonna take me 8 years to top out at $30/hr at my current job.

[@godsway8501]

Get tf up outta there my guy fuck mediocrity chase your dreams!!! 💯💪🏾

[@prestonhoward5024]

I am taking my aptitude test next month and your videos have helped me a lot in preparation. Thank you!!

[@MadElectrician]

Heck yeah man! Go kill it! I’m really glad to hear that. Got my fingers crossed for you 🤞🏼

[@alpinecurrant7770]

Really? I tried applying but they gave a message on their website saying all apprenticeships have been postponed due to the pandemic. I'm from Chicago trying to get into the local 134, how about you? P.s good luck on your test!

[@prestonhoward5024]

@@alpinecurrant7770 Sorry to hear that man. I’m going through local 48 and they allow scheduled entrance to the building. I’ve taken my test and my interview at this point and was ranked 22nd and 23rd in my preferred zones. I would give them a call and clarify to make sure. Best of luck!

[@alpinecurrant7770]

@@prestonhoward5024 thanks man, i appreciate it. And good look to you too

[@xx_cyrogen_xx9834]

@@prestonhoward5024 you started working yet? That’s a great rank

[@thenman23]

i learned about this opportunity in october 2018 from an inspector directly and I wasn't quite ready but I got my ged and license in 2019 and i've been working in retail in warehouse but i'm more than ready to apply to the IBEW and change my life

[@MadElectrician]

Hey! Thanks for reaching out! Becoming an electrician has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I would highly suggest doing whatever it takes to make it happen if it’s something that seems interesting and fun to you. It also would highly suggest going the union route (joining the IBEW). As a new apprentice especially, it’s the way to go. I hope this encourages you to start taking steps to make this happen! ⚡️

[@heywon75]

Great video! Thank you for sharing with all of us this valuable information. I work in healthcare field for the past 15 years and I’m thinking of changing careers and if I were to do so and start as an apprentice, my pay cut would be approximately 80% less than I’m making now, but I’m willing to take that chance and hoping to pay off on the long run. Thank you again for sharing your valuable knowledge with us!

[@ryansmall3]

I live in Guyana 🇬🇾 but I am abt it move to Florida and your video has allot of valuable information inside

[@MadElectrician]

Hey Ryan! Right on! I’m happy to hear that you found this video to be informative ⚡️

[@rapperz10]

You got me, I’m subbed.. now put in a good word for me. I’m out of the military in 5 months and I’ll be home back in Oregon 😭

[@MadElectrician]

Thanks for the sub! And thanks for your service! The IBEW actually has a lot of respect for our vets for for that reasons you will have a much higher chance of getting accepted than those who haven’t served. I think that you’ll have a fairly easy time getting accepted because of that, though you’ll still need to pass your aptitude test and interview will. Let’s keep in touch and I’ll help in any way I can when the time gets closer for you to apply 👍🏼

[@elliottlastnameblank7916]

You are a superb job counselor! I feel maybe learning the electrical trade is a better path than college.

[@MadElectrician]

Thank you! It really is a fantastic career ⚡️

[@elliottlastnameblank7916]

@@MadElectrician My dad had a PhD in Biochemistry and worked as a Research professor. You make more money in your 20s than he did in his 50s.

[@joshhaddock6772]

@@elliottlastnameblank7916 it isn’t all about money

[@joshhaddock6772]

@Deep Thinking those people are idiots

[@michaelhaungooah856]

Also remember this pay varies from local to local. But just about all locals pay at a livable wage rate based on location. I'm in local 640 in Phoenix Arizona. Journeyman rate is currently 33.10, benefits included make 46.12 an hour, and monthly fee is about 40 bucks.

[@jojolopez177]

How the work in Arizona I’m debating on switching to being a apprentice electrician!!!

[@michaelhaungooah856]

@Jojo Lopez Arizona is busy right now on Phoenix. Not enough journeyman or apprentices to man all the work we have for the next couple years. Right now is perfect to hop in.

[@jojolopez177]

@@michaelhaungooah856 are they paying incentive because of the shortage of electrician

[@michaelhaungooah856]

@Jojo Lopez yeah, just about every job is paying above scale at the moment starting from 5 dollars and up to 10 dollars over scale. Hours are high for the jobs too, 50-60 a week.

[@jojolopez177]

@@michaelhaungooah856 is the incentive also for apprentices ?

[@thetimelords911]

You earned a sub from me. While this is American oriented, I am trying to become an electrician up here in Canada, and I think your channel will still help me out a bit.

[@MadElectrician]

Right on! I really appreciate the sub! ⚡️

[@xiSwizzHD]

Best of luck man! I’m with IBEW 353 in Toronto as an apprentice. 100% worth going union in my opinion. I worked non union before.

[@rockytheafg]

I tourned 30 yesterday. I've been trying different office jobs in my twenties. I came to realise how much I don't belong here. I've been thinking about going back to school for a couples of Weeks. Better late than Never I guess. Anyways, I did some research and I think I would love to be an electrician. Thanx for the video.

[@NickFissore]

U got this

[@musyck16]

Same here I turned 30 in March, I’ve been looking for a new career what seems like forever electrician sounds like the way to go

[@rockytheafg]

@@NickFissore Thanx appreciate it Man.

[@rockytheafg]

@@musyck16 30 is still pretty young. Time passes annyways. We could be un the same position in 5 years or be a qualified electrician making good money.

[@13_13k]

First, I want to say very good video. Next, as an electrician with a little over 30 yrs in the trade, both Union (local 332) and non Union, approximately 16 yrs each, there are pros and cons to both. Everyone should be aware of those. I'm not going to get into specifics but know there are both, good and bad things in each. You mentioned being a foreman and a general foreman and the higher pay scale you get for those titles. What you didn't mention was with those titles are added responsibilities, longer hours, sometimes you get overtime sometimes not, mandatory meetings with management which a lot of times you don't get paid for. And usually to get those positions as foreman /general foreman, you've become a company man instead of being a good union brother. Hence the name International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. Brothers lookout for each other and our interests as skilled laborers, whereas foreman/general foreman have the company's best interest as a priority. I was offered foreman positions a few times, offered a company truck, the extra 10% wage raise and easily declined the offers every time. First off, 10% isn't enough money for the pressure, the extra hours, having to baby sit crew, dealing with the other trades, job owners and having the office on your ass constantly, from project managers to Superintendent of Men, to the engineers and purchasing just to name the minimum of things and people you have to deal with. Now, I have my own business, and I work harder and longer hours than I ever had before but I reap the benefits from that. I am a non union shop only because I am a one man outfit. I do have part time help if and when a job requires me to have another person working with me or to do one job while I do another. I would be a union shop but they have minimum number of full-time employees needed for a shop to be part of the union. I don't have that much work. I can keep two full-time, employees busy, one apprentice and one journeyman, right now, but my business is growing every year consistently. I'm at the point where I have to hire at least one journeyman because I can't do it all as one person, owner, sales, engineer, purchasing, accountant, customer service, estimator, secretary, etc... and do all the field work. It's too much and I will be losing money and jobs if I don't expand. I know, it is not a bad position to be in. But when you have clients like mine, and the types of jobs I get, I have to have an employee that is a top quality, well rounded, commercial and residentioal experience, absolutely trustworthy because of the caliber of and the wealth of clients and the value of the properties where I work. I am regularly dealing with light fixtures that are hand made and or one off and 100 years old, architectural designs that are museum pieces, a few have been priceless, and a lot worth in the hundreds of thousands of dollars, not to mention the home or office or hotel or cathedral that they are installed and the cost of everything around you. So finding someone that is a good fit will be very difficult. I love being an electrician.

[@johnpaultuma6631]

Thanks for giving some insight you have seeing as you’ve been in the electrical field for so long, really appreciate it.

[@13_13k]

@@johnpaultuma6631 ---- my pleasure. If my insights and experience help anyone, in the trade or thinking about getting into the trade, that's great. I learned from some of the best electricians on the West Coast while working for the biggest and best electrical contractors in the West. I'm very fortunate to have the experience and training that I got. I started at 19 yrs old as a material handler, basically a pre apprentice, on job sites for the biggest union company in California back in mid 1980s then became a driver of a stakebed truck delivering tools and material to an average of ten or twelve commercial job sites throughout L.A. County. Mostly high rises, industrial, hospitals, then a year later promoted to warehouse manager with 3 drivers, a tool repairman and shop, a runner, and a warehouse man under me. I was just 21 yrs old and running that warehouse and employees for a $100 million a year contractor. Two more years of that and became an apprentice. Finally. I won't get into too much more but I left L.A. and went to Silicon Valley during the beginning of the dotcom boom. I was a Journeyman, 30 yrs old making a ton of money, building Google, Yahoo, Intel, NASA, G.E. Nuclear Power Plant, Stanford University Hospital and football stadium, Cisco, etc.... so much more. Until 2011 then back to L.A. got my license, left the union in good standing if I want to rejoin no problem. Now since 2012 I have my own business service electrical, 70% for film and television production on locations and commercial and residential service work. Into six figures a year now. 56 yrs young, single no ex alimony no kids or child support. Just me and my toys.

[@bragoon5819]

Its so convenient that he works with the exact local I want to join.

[@austinlavier5262]

Can you make a vid about unions? How they work? How u get in them? Base pay?

[@MadElectrician]

I sort of answer some of those questions throughout my videos, but I do also plan on doing a while series about the union and how it works/ my opinions on it. The base pay is actually addressed in this video though. It will depend which Local you end up working for, but here it’s the lowest apprentice wage that I mentioned in the video is the base pay as an apprentice. Then like I said you get incremental wages based off of hours worked. For a journeyman, the base pay here is just over $50/ hr starting next in 2021. There is a lot that I want to make sure I cover with union stuff so I need some time to get everything prepared. It will definitely happen sooner than later though. Thanks for the suggestion!

[@coo-coo666]

Apply to the apprenticeship of the Local in which you live.

[@proquo5445]

@@MadElectrician getting paid at all is depending on whether or not you're actually working a contract job right? because I am still working my normal civilian job but taking classes Monday nights- its just my first year of being in though- I still have to take the 1st math test.

[@Foxdie525]

Great video! Shout out from IBEW Local 25 (Long Island NY)

[@erikhofer5285]

I am looking to join! Is #25 a good union. I was lokoing to jump in but they are not accepting applications until april

[@SplatDaddy_]

I got my teat in 6 months and excited for my future as an electrician!!!

[@MadElectrician]

That's great to hear Ason! Wishing you the best of luck on your whole application process! Feel free to reach out if you have any questions about anything. ⚡️

[@SplatDaddy_]

@@MadElectrician thanks man appreciate it i just cant wait to enjoy my career instead of hating going to my job and i can always learn and improve and have a trade that will help me out when i need it

[@MadElectrician]

I felt the same way before I got in. I’m really enjoying my career now and I think you will too.

[@AmericanWireman]

On top of the health and welfare , the multiple retirements, and the brotherhood? Its definitely the way to go

[@MadElectrician]

100%! The IBEW is really a golden opportunity hidden in plain sight. I’m incredibly thankful to be a part of it and be so well taken care of.

[@513ghost5]

Good video! Topped out in 2000. Great program and career choice. Oh yeah forgot, we still had to pay $200 for books when I went through but not a problem for the education we received.

[@waltersobchak7275]

My brother 177 checking in.

[@MadElectrician]

Thanks for watching my videos, Walter! I appreciate your support!

[@jamesboone3678]

I don't know why but your intro is so satisfying 😌

[@MadElectrician]

Glad you like it 😂 I’ve considered removing it but I don’t think I will ☕️

[@jamesboone3678]

@@MadElectrician please don't 🙏 I think its just cool.

[@jamesboone3678]

@@MadElectrician hey stay safe man during these crazy times. God bless!

[@adamdebesai]

We are lucky to be getting advice from such a genuine person. Thank you!

[@MadElectrician]

Stop, you're making me blush 😉 I really appreciate the kind words. You're very welcome!

[@puffthestuff7445]

If you're already licensed, your local might work something out with you. I started the apprenticeship with 3rd year wage rates because I had my license and an organizer convinced me to join.

[@kyletaisacan]

How does the transition work? If you've journeyed out, do you have to enter union apprenticeship also?

[@puffthestuff7445]

@@kyletaisacan it's really different for everyone who joins. Like I said, I told them I would do the full 5 years and start as a first year for third year pay. They agreed. If you have like 6 years or more experience they'll just bring you on as a journeyman. Tough to do cause really the program gets you a lot of high level certifications and the training is far better than non union. They call a journeyman who just came in provisional and usually the quality of their work is questionable. I think everyone should be required to do at least 3 years of the school. Provisionals come in and a lot of people really don't like them. They didnt have to do a lot that the union journeyman did so they are not well liked usually.

[@kevbrix]

Absolutely love these videos. You have answered so many questions. I got my paperwork submitted and application started right before covid hit for the Washington DC IBEW. Just waiting on an aptitude test date. Got email saying should be soon. Going to start studying. One question, if you don’t mind, my girlfriend and I love traveling. And at my job now I get 3 weeks vacation, just wondering if I’ll still get at least one week while doing the apprenticeship. Thank you. And thank you for your videos, they’ve really gotten me pumped and determined to do this.

[@MadElectrician]

Hey man! Really glad to hear that you’re enjoying the videos and that they are helping you out in this process! This Covid stuff has really slowed down the application process for a lot of people so it’s great to hear that things are finally starting to move forward for you. As far as your question with vacation time, I think that it will depend on which local you end up working for. Here at Local 48, we have what’s called a vacation fund. Basically every month money gets deposited into that fund and we can decide how we want to spend it. It’s original intent was to be used for vacation/ paid time off, but it’s literally just a separate fund that we can use for whatever we want. I’ve always used it for taking time off. When my wife and I had our second daughter I had enough in my vacation fund account to take two whole weeks off. I would recommend looking into the specific local’s website that you’re applying for and seeing if they say anything about how they do PTO/ vacation time there. They might have a completely different way of doing that there, but my guess is that it will be pretty similar. Hope that helps! Hit me up anytime with more questions as you think of them!

[@jaredvallaire4688]

Thanks man for all of the great info! I’ve been looking to get more info about being an electrician and your videos have really helped me out.

[@MadElectrician]

Right on man! I’m happy to hear that! I really enjoy making these videos so it’s my pleasure. Hit me up if you have any questions along the way ⚡️

[@jaredvallaire4688]

Thanks man I definitely will! Your videos have already helped out a lot

[@MJK-ULTRA]

I actually liked and subscribed while you took a sip of that Java. Thanks for your help bro !

[@angeldjesusg]

Much love and respect to all union brothers!! Local 332!

[@Ink.johnny]

I enjoy your videos. Local 48 jw here. Keep it up.

[@MadElectrician]

Hey, happy to hear that! I definitely will. Thanks!

[@slamdunkonu]

Excellent breakdown, very informative and enthusiastic. I appreciate your work, brother

[@MadElectrician]

Thank you! I’m tlad that people are getting something out of these videos.

[@horsebones727]

First! Thanks for the continued inspiration

[@MadElectrician]

Thanks for your support!

[@nycelectriciandavid7997]

Here's the rate for a NYC Hospital electrician rate in 2007 ( the year I retired ): -$70/hour (I'm sure it's more now ) -Overtime pay is 'time and a half' after 35 hour work week. -$300/week annuity from IBEW local#3 ( one must be on the job full week, otherwise pro-rated ) -28 vacation days and 20 days sick days ( I think City of NY slashed that a bit by now ) - Health insurance is considered "Cadillac Coverage" life time without additional fees after retirement -Retirement is under NYCERS. -You're away from the elements ( cool during hot season, warm during cold season ) -Only drawback? You would be in a dirty place ( cross infections, as with any other hospital wherever that is ) and would be in a 'concrete jungle' most of your career life.

[@savedbyhismercyandlove]

I am in NYC and want to start a apprenticeship but I am 47,I think nobody will want to work with a useless old Man and go with younger people

[@ricardovarajr]

For local 11 the first 2.5 years are day school for 1 full week every 8 weeks. So since COVID happened I’ve been in school every month since March and I got back in September for my 2-1 class. After that class I go back in November and back on the regular school schedule. Crazy how other locals are different. Here in LA it’s draining. Monday-Friday 8hr days for school and two exams on fridays to pass the week since we do 2 subjects each week. The no pay is hard, but once we hit 3rd year we go to night school 3 days a week.

[@sergioamescua3460]

I’m a union electrician local 11. I joined the apprenticeship program back in 2000. I really liked the union ways but had to leave due to little or no work at the time. Went back to non union and landed with a good company that kept me busy for ever 20 plus years. Decided to give the union another shot since the construction industry was booming. It was great everyone was happy but then again it slowed down. Like dead. That’s the issue with the union when it’s gets slow it’s dead stop slow. Been on the books for almost a year. So now I’m back to working non union like every other union member does when they get laid off. I landed with a great solar company now installing back up battery systems and now making the most money I’ve ever made. So yes I’ve made a ton of money as an electrician but it hasn’t been easy. I’ve had both my hands fixed from carpule tunnel had four surgeries on my knees till the finally had to get knee replacements. So if you want to carry like 30lbs of tools on your waist for the rest of your career then this is for you.

[@MrRoblox]

Currently in Laborers local 373 working with bricklayers, making $26.50/h, just applied to ibew local 5, the wage rates start at $16.25 which is a bit discouraging, but im hoping to get in and get this all started.

[@ricechido1089]

Those years will go by fast trust me. Plus you can transfer eventually to better states where rates are higher

[@thewhisperingpeter9441]

Hey man, I looked at all WA local wages. They’re high. I imagine all IBEW do the same formula on % pay. Meaning that lowest paid first year apprentice is $19.80 for just one of the locals. The others in that state are much hifher

[@MrRoblox]

@@thewhisperingpeter9441 i got accepted into local 5, started out at $16.25 and will top out around $48

[@deion7027]

Applied for union straight out of hs, took aptitude test, had my interview, but I got the letter that I didn’t make it in. I’m very upset because this is the career I’d like to pursue so hopefully I can get some experience or take some classes and have a better chance of getting in next time.

[@uglyaldo3268]

definitely take some clases like at a trade school and maybe work with a contractor to get some experience. it shows you have interest in the trade and are doing what every you can go learn i just got accepted to my local and i had no experience other then 2-3 classes i took at trade school while working my property management job. You got this bro definitely keep trying!

[@tylerfabish5578]

keep trying. a lot of people dont get in on the first time. Do what I did and apply at a community college that offers some sort of trade program, ANY trade. Electronics, HVAC, machining, automotive. Just something to show you are capable of working with tools. I failed my first time in. Went and got my associates degree in HVAC and worked in the field for a year, then came back and nailed it. Now I'm a first year apprentice for the IBEW. You probably won't have to do everything I did, but at least start down the path. Dont waste years of your early 20s like I did. Get to work now.

[@Kenuptn]

Try going non union by trying for electrical contractors union isnt the only way

[@allyssajohnson1399]

These videos are so awesome, very informative. Thanks so much for doing this

[@MatthewDownardYoga]

Very helpful video as I am contemplating applying with the IBEW here in Reno area. But i have been very concerned about the massive pay cut. Your video has helped me understand the realities and framework available as an apprentice. Thanks for sharing.

[@joeyork9891]

I live in NYC Rate for AJ is 58-48 supplement benifits We pay 600 in dues weather working or not and 3% due accessment of scale salary. Our apprentices make minimum wages Till about year 5.5.

[@stevenme1258]

We make $55.50 an hour here in Los Angeles local 11. I thank Jesus all the time for my job.

[@FCES_Electrical_Sol]

Excellent content my guy !! ⚡💡

[@MadElectrician]

Thanks! Glad you’re enjoying it!

[@seeyaa_2ss]

35$ an hour 150$ a day per diem 6days a week 12 hours a day Anything after 40 hours is time and half And we get paid weekly ( Do the math on that guys ) That's industrial journeyman electrician pay

[@SergeUnplugged]

Solid video, my total endorsement :)

[@MadElectrician]

Thanks Serge! It looks like you have some pretty killer guitar videos that I’ll need to check out! I play too ✌🏼

[@javiergiraldez1647]

That’s true, here in Orlando, Union Dues + 4% work security in Disney, that make you earn $5 less per hour.

[@vidamorenita5946]

I like your set up and on the other side of the screen its feels like you're really talking to me and were both having coffee lol

[@cbastian3215]

Thanks for the info I suscribed since you had exactly the info I was searching 👍

[@MadElectrician]

Right on man! I appreciate that! Happy that this was able to help ⚡️

[@jimd7063]

Great job , you should mention that you get a pension from the money you put into dues and that you get a pension from national electrical contractors association (NECA) on top of your local pension, life is good

[@MadElectrician]

Great suggestion, Jim! I'll actually be making a whole video talking about the pension. I also want to do a whole video talking about union dues. Thanks for the reminder and suggestion! I definitely agree, life is good!

[@casimirobuenabista]

I used to be a truck driver, I started going to trade school for electrician two weeks ago I'll see how this goes.

[@agnailsupplies5318]

How is it so far? I drive a dump truck but also starting school soon

[@casimirobuenabista]

@@agnailsupplies5318 Is going great am on my 7 week and I did conduit bending and OSHA classes, am doing blueprint right now.

[@kaylebollin8837]

If you haven't already, apply to your local union! You will get all the needed training as an apprentice, so it's worth dropping out of a trade school of you are accepted. But showing that you are in school will help prove your interest in the trade.

[@casimirobuenabista]

@@kaylebollin8837 Thanks but am thinking in getting into PLCs I don't know if I also have to be into a union for that.

[@kaylebollin8837]

@@casimirobuenabista You don't have to, but you can do PLC in the union. I'm actually talking an instrumentation (which isn't only plc but includes them) class right now. The best part is that you get payed to take the classes, and they're free! But PLCs are fun👍

[@chrissanchez344]

Hey man how’s it doing, I was wondering what you would recommend to do for someone fresh out of high school as far as the application process

[@VinceNSN]

Leaving a comment here if he replies

[@xx_cyrogen_xx9834]

100%, the younger the better honestly. He’s even said so himself in other videos/comments. I wish I joined right out of high school tbh.

[@Hunter200012MC]

Any idea what I should do in the meantime? Just finished my interview last Tuesday. Got a score 76/100. I don’t have any experience under my belt, however I may have a leg up on most..I got a buddy that’s allowing me to use him as a recommendation and let’s not forget applications/tests are suspended until sometime in 2020.

[@MadElectrician]

Hey man! I replied but I misread your comment. Was that a passing score for the interview and do you already have your rank on the list?

[@chief5981]

Hunter200012MC I just took my test 3 days ago. Did you test and interview or just interview for now?

[@Mrgoresnake]

Taking my aptitude test for local 58 on the 23rd. Currently doing hardwood floors until I hopefully get in

[@MadElectrician]

Right on! Wishing you the best of luck. Definitely check out my “Taking the Aptitude Test” video of you haven’t yet. I think it will help you to be well prepared. Keep in touch and let me know if you have any questions about anything as you progress through the application process 👍🏼

[@Mrgoresnake]

Iv watched every video you have . Started watching about a week after you uploading the first in the series and turned the notifications on. I had to wait until August 23rd for the portal to open and got the letter and the text last week with my date and time. I know I need to prepare more for the test. I got my ged last year and just turned 19 in September so I’m still pretty fresh out of school but I need to still prepare for it.

[@MadElectrician]

Wow, well thank you for your support! That’s really cool. I hope that my videos have been helpful for you. If you have any video suggestions let me know and I’ll be happy to make it happen. I think you’ll have a bit of an advantage then since the information is still fresh, but I think it’s a good idea to still study for it like you said. I’m sure you’ll do great.

[@Mrgoresnake]

They all have been really helpful. Iv always wanted to something with An electrical background but needed some direction.

[@chief5981]

Zanderkin903 I used a site (I think it was called jobtestprep.com. It cost 80 bucks but was very beneficial. I tested a few days ago and several of the guys there said they used that site as well. Good luck man

[@rileydwellington]

Just had my interview for the apprenticeship. Placed at rank 21!

[@MadElectrician]

So awesome! Congratulation! Do you feel like the videos helped you throughout the process?

[@rileydwellington]

@@MadElectrician for sure! I also had a letter of recommendation though so that I'm sure helped my ranking. I didnt dress up though. Wore pants and a nice sweater and boots

[@k3nfr0st39]

@@rileydwellington depending on your local/ regional job market and labor market demands, you should or be close to starting out now. I had my aptitude test and interview and scored 29 on the list and I just started May 3 last week. I'm based out of Local 714 Minot, ND.

[@alexcrable4044]

Excellent video, keep up the good content!

[@MadElectrician]

Thanks Alex! Glad that you’re enjoying the videos!

[@willardwayne3]

Ha! Not in south Georgia. My shops TOP field electrician only makes $25 hr

[@MadElectrician]

That's really unfortunate 😕 I don't think that's near enough for the amount of expertise, training, and danger involved in the job. Starting in January here every JW electrician with Local 48 will be making a minimum of $53.85/ hr on the check.

[@angellifts6044]

Hey man I’m in Nyc in Manhattan and don’t really know who my local IBEW is, I need help, btw though you are gettin me pumped😂 my dad has been a electrician all his life and always wanted to show me the ropes, but as a young guy I never really cared about it. But now that I’m out of HS and 19 years old I feel like this is the right path to take🙌🏼

[@JohnDoe-jp6zs]

Dang bro, yall are doing pretty well over there on the west coast! Our wages are much lower here in Missouri but also cost of living is probably quite a bit less. I really enjoy being an electrician though. Good money and job stays interesting. Cheers bro!

[@ciprianobarsenasjr7014]

you have great style. and all required skills to be a great communicator. besides electricity topics, consider to expose other different topic in youtube videos. regards

[@Unseen145]

I’m a roofer in the same exact position of your brother thanks

[@GLORTHAAK]

Hey bud, I've been apprenticing for about a month now. I'm a little older than most, 34 years old starting out, but I love it so far, even with the massive change to the type of labor that I'm used to. If there's any other advice you can share please do or link me to a video that you have already made

[@Boc3phu5]

Same here.

[@jcastro99777]

Can you make a video on travelers and their wages? Great content! 👌🏻

[@MadElectrician]

Hey Jose! I’m planning on it actually! I need to do more research myself before I make it but I’m hoping to do that in the next couple of months. Great video topic idea. Thanks! ⚡️

[@niceguy6837]

Hey Jose you ever figure it out? I'm travel in the union

[@abcdef-kx2qt]

the GYPSY life ? depending where your coming from determines the value of the effort . say from a high wage state to a low wage state, you are wasting time & efforts. you wont score any retirement - unemployment - nothing !!!! beware !!!! dont forget the bill continue where you left yes ??

[@thesexyracc00n94]

I got roughly 2,000 hours racked up at a non-union company and it's pretty trash in terms of pay and benefits. Got my interview at IBEW in a couple of weeks, looking forward to it.

[@TheJoeMoneyShow]

we deserve way more!!!!!!! $100 a hour minimum

[@carlmarquardt994]

I'd come over in a heartbeat

[@sager121483]

Just stumbled across your videos a few days ago. Noticed the Stumptown Coffee and figured you were from Portland. Like your vidoes. I have been going through a lot of these lately trying to figure if a job switch is something i should go for.

[@D_Spear]

Trying to make the switch to IBEW local 1 right now. I’m a journeyman non union, pay increase would be nearly $10 an hour

[@angeldjesusg]

Im at $60.54 hr. 4th year apprentice loval 332

[@xxsilver_gamingxx389]

As an apprentice 😮‍💨

[@corneliussmith5875]

I live in MD how what exactly do I search to find my local electricians union. I’m 24 and am ready to really dive into this field. Good videos, I just wish I decided to want to do this earlier.

[@MadElectrician]

24 is still a great age to get into the trade. You can be a journeyman before you’re 30 which would be a huge accomplishment! Just google “IBEW Local in my area” or search specifically for the city you live in. Chances are that there is an IBEW local somewhere relatively close to where you live.

[@corneliussmith5875]

@@MadElectrician thank you

[@MadElectrician]

@@corneliussmith5875 Anytime!

[@browersidenay4051]

Im 24 as well just diving into it. Its never to late you got this💪🏾

[@milwsdl39]

You know I chose carpentry as a tree in high school dating myself back in 89 looking back I would’ve became an electrician or a plumber but in Massachusetts you need an apprenticeship so those are kind of trade you can’t really get into when you’re 57 or eight years to get your hours depending on where you were but awesome video thank you

[@a6scorpio]

There's no age limit & they're big on non-discriminating ppl over 40, & everything else 👍

[@scorpionsunday9483]

I joined the ibew here in AZ right when I finished my 8000 hours, I took their test for Journeyman. IT was a shit show. They gave me an ideal bender with a refrigerator magnet level to bend a kick 90 with a box offset. and a 3 point saddle that had to clear the obstruction by .25 inch. If you know the ideal bender, you now that the hash marks are not correct. I was able to bend the kick 90 without issue but my 3 point saddle was touching the obstruction. So they failed me and told me that I had to take 4 classes on how to bend pipe and I had to pay for the classes as well. Here in AZ they took the benefits out of our checks, so not such a good deal to be in the union here. I told them to go to hell when they asked me to pay for the classes. I could easily teach that class. I am a 6th year Journeyman now.

[@Ambers-Adventures]

I've been an electrician now for 25 years and really wish I had gone the union route.

[@natalieponce2725]

Wow. I didn’t know there are women been electrician.

[@hangriat9376]

@@natalieponce2725 my aunt’s been in the IBEW for around a decade now. Before sh went in, she couldn’t even read a tape measurer. Its all about being teachable

[@kiler2death]

im moving to portland in a couple months, and currently work in trucking. Ill be applying to the local 48, so maybe ill see ya around!

[@kiler2death]

@Nword Nationreppin Currently where I live I get 22.75/hour, but the job I’ll be accepting in Portland before applying to the IBEW will be 23/hour

[@kiler2death]

@yofromarkansas it’s crazy that the ibew in Portland does 50/hour after 5 years

[@Ricardo_C]

Glad I found your videos ! Can you make one talking about vacation time ?

[@MadElectrician]

Hey Ricardo! Thanks for watching! I do definitely plan on doing a video about vacation time sometime soon. I'm going to be starting a whole series of IBEW/ union videos soon so I'll be covering lots of these different topics in that series.

[@FatherDinny]

Im looking to do an electrician apprenticeship, i paid €120 for a preparation course which gave us an idea with what to expect for the aptitude tests etc

[@MadElectrician]

Hey Michael! Right on! How was the course? Do you feel like it did a good job at preparing you? And do you mind me asking which course it was?

[@TheFacilityguy]

How does the IBEW handle applicants that already have an electrical license and have been working in the trade for 10 years? Do they still start out as year one apprentices if they jump to the union?

[@MadElectrician]

Hey Joe! It’s actually a pretty common thing for people to transfer over later on after competing their apprenticeship. The IBEW won’t make you go through the apprenticeship again. You’ll just transfer in and will be assigned to be a journeyman for one of the companies in the IBEW Local you are wanting to join. Get in touch with the IBEW local in your area and they’ll be able to help answer questions for you and get the ball rolling if it’s something that you want to do 👍🏼

[@javiergiraldez1647]

You take the test, they evaluate and if you really have your license and knowledge, you will be in that position. Licensed Journeyman Wireman

[@abcdef-kx2qt]

@@MadElectrician : will the ibew give you free cpr, twix. osha 10 ???? that is coming in cold ????

[@MadElectrician]

@@abcdef-kx2qt yes sir! I’ve received free CPR and OSHA 10 during my apprenticeships I’m unfamiliar with twix though. It might be called something different here. What is twix?

[@splash_zoe9399]

I was starting to lose hope lol Great video. Back Story---- I went to a trade program in Florida, finished all my courses, graduated with my diploma. I couldn't really find me a good company that would pay me at least $13/hr during that year due to the fact i didn't have any experience. So I lost that year and did some retail works, then i moved to ALabama just for me to be in that same position i didn't wanna be in the first place. Irony after a year with this company i'm still getting paid 13/hr. I was just bout to say F this trade S and then go do my CDL, now that i came across your video i'm thinking maybe i just need to move to another State....MY question is now should i just move to another state and start over or finished my hours, take the test and then move after that?

[@planettiktok3258]

your videos are so informative

[@MadElectrician]

That’s the goal! I really do try to make my videos as short as possible but I also don’t want to sacrifice any information that I know I’d want to know. The struggle 😂

[@planettiktok3258]

Mad Electrician thank you so much I really appreciate it

[@vinniecocco9932]

I'm a ibew local 25 foreman and I make $62 an hour.

[@MadElectrician]

Right on! $62/ hour is great!

[@DS-zo8xs]

Is the foreman like a supervisor?

[@vinniecocco9932]

@@DS-zo8xs no a supervisor is in charge of man power and usually works in the office.