Pipewelding

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Hi everyone, I just introduced myself, and am seeking some answers/advice from anyone who knows about pipefitting and welding.Ive have around 4 years total of welding experience, 1 year being a 780 hour technical school.We learned stick, all rods/ positions, tig all positions steel stainless alum, little bit of pipe 2g,4g,6g and I learned flux core and mig through job training. Ive mainly worked in the shop and field doing structural steel, as well as install and fabrication of firestairs.I really would like to get into pipefitting, and have recently been trying to get into my local pipefitters union. I have a little bit of plumbing experience, and enjoy working on pipe, and find it pretty fascinating. However, I was told getting in is tough, and I reallydont know anyone in the union, so I am not banking on getting in. I'll be taking the math and reading test in the end of feb.What other options would I have of getting into this field? Ive heard some good things about Hobart Welding School, but dont think I'd be able to afford getting in right now. I did see an add for Welding/Pipefitter trainees in VA which doesnt require any experience, and claims full salary and benefits while being trained, but I'm thinking I may have to sign some kind of contract with them? I feel the best thing for me right now is getting into some kind of apprenticeship program, to learn all I can while still getting paid.Anyway, any thoughts or advise would be appreciated!
Reply:The (UA) Pipefitters are like most crafts, the average age of their people is climbing and a lot will retire over the next few years. They plan to take in a very large number of people in the near future.Right now the work is slow, so it's more difficult but when work picks up it will get easier. Their 5 year apprenticeship is pretty demanding from what I've seen and you will have to learn and do a lot more than just weld of course. Math skills are helpfull in fitting. good luck,JTMcC.
Reply:The woman at the initial signup hall told us that they only took in 20 apprentices within the last 2 years, but that they plan on accepting more this time around. In the meantime, I am polishing up on my math skills because I know that is very important. Ive been reading quit a few books on offsets, claculations, etc. so at least I have some kind of knowledge of what I'm getting into.Thanks for your response JTM!