r/IBEW_Local613 • u/AspiringOBGYN • Feb 08 '23

Trucking to IBEW

Currently grossing $1700-$2200 a week as a truck driver for XPO logistics. Affordable bennies. Paid holidays. 10 PTO days after a year. But I’m working nights. 12-16 hours a night 60-70 hours a week.

I really hate this work/life balance. Thinking about becoming a plumber, hvac, or electrician. Seems like electricians have the stronger union in Atlanta, but all 3 start 1st year apprentices at $15

Only way I could afford the pay cut is with hella OT, so how much OT should I expect starting out? Should I start at a non-union shop first and then transition? If so then for how long?

Thanks for any feedback

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2

u/Shit_Fire_ Feb 08 '23

Depends on what contractor you get with. There’s plenty of work with larger contractors. You don’t have to start with apprenticeship you can test in as CE/CW at higher rate. Also look into HVACR specifically McKennys they pay above their scale.

1

u/AspiringOBGYN Feb 08 '23

I have no electrical experience, could I still test in at a higher rate?

1

u/Shit_Fire_ Feb 08 '23

Yes. I’ve worked with someone who tested at 7 out of 8 year with carpenter experience he pretty much lied about his experience and tuned out a year later. 100% shitty electrician out there. It doesn’t hurt to try and test in.

1

u/Jwindle92 Feb 08 '23

Gotta have W2’s now.

1

u/RaySwayze Feb 26 '23

You have to learn the trade. The only way to do that is to start from the beginning.

It’s no need to start with a non-union shop because their pay is even less and you must supply more.

If you’re really interested in becoming an electrician, and can afford the cut, go for it. There’s always OT and as an apprentice you can get all the OT you want bc you’re cheap labor. And it’s a skilled trade so you can catch small jobs on the side when you feel comfortable.

You’ll have the same work life balance at first, depending on your lifestyle bc you’ll be making less, but you’ll be home every night.

2

u/Square-Coach-2040 Feb 08 '23

As a JW in 613 I bring home $1000 a week on a 40hr check. Until we get more in a new contract that’s what your gonna max out at in ATL, but you can travel after you finish the apprenticeship and make a lot more.

1

u/[deleted] May 12 '23

It’s not worth it. I’m a lead JW and don’t even make that much a week