Top 5 Challenging Things About Being an Apprentice

[@siriuslyforked7585]

I was in the maintenance field for 10 years and left to come work for my current plumbing company. Currently I’m the only drain guy and I’m leading our board in revenue. I’m so glad I made the change and I absolutely can’t wait to keep learning more and more as I grow with our company.

[@isaacholbrook5775]

I have been so fortunate to get an apprenticeship as a commercial plumber and they immediately threw me into storm drains, vents, pex, and copper. Been there almost two months and love it! So glad I chose to get into the trades.

[@RogerWakefield]

Sounds like a great experience so far!

[@axeoftruth77]

Thanks Roger, you're definitely right about walking into the shop to apply. Got my first apprenticeship that way because of your suggestion, and haven't looked back since.

[@Senor1Hack]

Listening is the hardest part of learning remember that

[@terpman]

"Learn to look ahead." - Possibly the best advice for an apprentice. Not only does it get you thinking about the job in the same way a journeyman does, it helps the job run smoother and faster, and it will keep your journeyman happy (as long as you're not neglecting other tasks).

[@notwalter0500]

Thank you i needed to know this for the future

[@markwhite5344]

Last part was on point. Def always have to look at the next step and be on it ready to Rock!!!!!!!! 🤘🤘

[@jacobkindsvatter4055]

Im a 30 year old (my age) journeymen plumber, still to this day i still forget to bring my tape measure in with me when i go to diagnose a problem, but i did recently buy a milwaukee fast back razor blade that has a screwdriver on it and it is SUPER HANDY, im about to go for my master license but here in colorado it has no benefit unless you own a company

[@matthewholsomback5442]

Im 35 is it to late to become an apprentice. I live in the Birmingham Alabama area

[@ladyoftruth6651]

HELP PLEASE: WHAT WELDING ROD DO YOU USE TO COVER GAS COPPER ORFICE TO REDRILL TO LP?

[@RogerWakefield]

I WISH I KNEW! I'M NOT A WELDER

[@88Crager]

I got my apprentice license last month, ive never worked a labor job. What can i do to prepare myself for the physical work?

[@centralcoastcamper9631]

Do what your told !

[@e-dev9401]

Oh and I skipped over this because I consider it obvious, but don't be sassy. Be a good helper, your goal is to not be an obstacle. Having an attitude about being too good for grunt work (sweeping up, moving materials around, carrying toolbags) will put you on the naughty list very quickly. They aren't trying to demean you or jerk you around, they just want to get the work done quick as reasonably possible. Being a reliable, helpful guy will make you their favorite very quickly. When you are their favorite, they will teach you more things, let you use more tools more quickly, and be more forgiving of your mistakes. And honestly probably start gifting you their old tools, so that's one less tool you have to buy.

[@ethanwasme4307]

keep telling yourself don't be a bitch, your body will get used to the pain, after a month you won't be coming back home sore

[@ViolenceDominates]

Invest in safety gear! Protect your knees most of all.

[@Saint_Oscar]

I came into the Plumbing/Pipefitting Trade as a 30-year-old from an engineering career. I'd worked 7 years working in either refuge/recycling facilities or in a factory with plenty of tool experience. The biggest thing I can say for anyone coming into the Trade is that regardless of your experience, be humble. This shit can kill you. I almost blew a Swagelok fitting off of a 400psi Nitrogen line because it was leaking and I thought it was just a compression sleeve like on copper lines. Big mistake. Thankfully I had a Journey nearby who rightfully called me a moron for multiple reasons, showed me the shutdown and bleed-down procedures, and actually explained the Swagelok system to me.

[@GrayFox094]

Cool story bro

[@Bretty-bc6ly]

Stellar advice! Thanks Roger.

[@RogerWakefield]

You bet! Are you an apprentice?

[@ozzystrecthg4ng162]

I start tomorrow, been watching and was motivated by your videos to pursue plumbing and made that step. Let’s see how it works out I’m eager to find out. Thank you sir 🫡

[@RogerWakefield]

Good luck, you're going to do great! Keep me updated on your journey!

[@ozzystrecthg4ng162]

@ 2nd day in the books! I wasn’t gonna reply after day one incase I couldn’t cut it 😅 I’m doing great and keeping up with my team thrown in the fire I’m sore but I leave feeling accomplished!

[@RogerWakefield]

Those are the best days...feeling tired but knowing you got a lot done 😎💪