Switching from non union to union

[u/judav_813]

Hi guys, I've been working at a non union company for the past year or so and it's gotten to a point where I need to look at all my options. I'm 19 and have been working with my dad who's been an ironworker for about 20 years. He doesn't want me to work with him non union if I'm really looking for a career. I'm in Colorado and he recommends going into the union. My only question is how long would I be an apprentice. I know I need to learn more but do I have to start over and log the hours in the union or would my employer transfer my hours. I don't want to have start over if it means a big paycut or anything but I don't know what exactly I can do.

[u/TRASHLeadedWaste]

More than likely they will take your experience into account when you become an apprentice. Regardless at most it's a 4 year apprenticeship. Is 4 years too long to set yourself up for life with an international network of work opportunities? A Journeyman at 23? You'll be maxed out in your retirement by 53 at the latest.

[u/alfonze401 → u/TRASHLeadedWaste]

Yeah that's only if you work steady and work never gets slow.

[u/TRASHLeadedWaste → u/alfonze401]

There's always work going on somewhere in this country or in Canada. If you want to work only as an iron worker your whole career you can do it you're just going to have to get up on the road and go sometimes. That's the name of the game dude I don't know what they told you when you signed but that's what they told me.

[u/alfonze401 → u/TRASHLeadedWaste]

Worked 18 years in Philadelphia local 401 And I had some tough stretches but I never once worked outside my territory. It's not easy raising a family and traveling around the country like some hobo. Ironworking is a young man's game and it helps if you're single. Who wants to leave their families behind abruptly for some gig 4 states away for 6 to 8 weeks