My future and unions?

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As some of you may be aware I'm going through the process of getting my certificate for welding technology at the local CC P/T. The problem is my current job will be coming to a close soon here and I need to find a new one, the plan was to go pipe fitter or sheet metal union as they're somewhat local. I'm having a hard time finding a way to reliably locate local unions. My other concern was, once I joined a union I could no longer go to school. Or if I joined, would it be worth it in an attempt to find a better paying job closer to what my interests are? The plan is to end up in an off road fab shop within the next two years. Or alternatively a machine shop in the next 2-4 years. But there are no local schools for machinists or available apprenticeships to non union or otherwise as far as I have found.So I'm curious to know what the best course of action is in some of your minds. I've been told multiple times to become a machinist rather than welder but I haven't been able to locate a machinists union in central cal, I'm split between the two honestly I'd like to do both if I could.What say the WW?"...My pappy was a pistol I'm a son of a gun...""...God is great, beer is good, and people are crazy..."
Reply:1. Experience is more valuable than school. Maybe not it terms of a wage but definitely in terms of personal satisfaction and direction. You can always go to school later.2. If you can get a job you're doing a lot better than many people right now. Don't pass on any good paying job, without a good reason.3. An off-road fab shop doesn't care about certs, unions, or schooling; experience is key. Also, if you want a job at an off-road fab shop be prepared to be poor.4. I (was) wasted (for) three years in college before I finally realized that I don't want to be an engineer.Ian TannerKawasaki KX450 and many other fine tools
Reply:Originally Posted by CrawfordSo I'm curious to know what the best course of action is in some of your minds. I've been told multiple times to become a machinist rather than welder but I haven't been able to locate a machinists union in central cal, I'm split between the two honestly I'd like to do both if I could.What say the WW?
Reply:Originally Posted by RojodiabloWhy on earth are you so hung up on joining a union??? There are jobs out there, and many of the best jobs are non union. You're pigeon-holing yourself. Not to mention, you will NEVER find a union off road fab shop. And, furthermore, going into a non union O/R fab shop and talking union will likely get you shown the door.There is a reason you are having trouble finding a local union in your area; they are pretty much dried up and done. Look to SF bay and the oil industry there, you will find a few union shops. But don't expect that it will mean you are going to be slammed with work, getting trained for everything under the sun. It ain't like that.
Reply:Originally Posted by CrawfordUnderstandable, Maybe i came off like I really want a union, but I'm more than happy without being in one, I was just curious if it would be beneficial to look for one vs school as there are not any welding apprentice positions available within 250miles (thats as far as I've looked) that would pay enough to make it even pan out financially. Too much indecision on my part I guess..
Reply:I'll second the farm equipment idea, also if you know anything about stainless you should look into the wine industry as well.Ian TannerKawasaki KX450 and many other fine tools
Reply:Dont discount joining a union. In CA as in most states, the pipefitters will pay far more than sheet metal. I dont want to start a union debate here, but just would suggest to do your homework. If you join a union and start an apprenticeship, you will have school. So, to say that you cant take classes and be in a union isnt quite right. You just will be taking their classes at their hall. These classes are also accreditedso they count toward a degree. I have been very happy with my union affiliation. It has some down sides but I believe the pros far outweigh the cons.UA Local 598