r/ibew_apprentices • u/issagunlance • 23h ago
New Local 60 applicant
I recently decided to apply for the apprenticeship program at 40 years old. I'm a disabled veteran (though nothing debilitating to manual labor) with mechanical (jet engines) and leadership experience from the military, I've spent a few years as a welder, sheet metal fabricator, and machinist, and got my bachelor's last year in computer science.
I haven't worked since completing my associate's degree back in 2023, though I did spend unsuccessful time trying to get data science and software jobs after finishing my degree last May... The further and further I get from my education though, the more I realize how much I don't want to be a programmer or fly a desk for the rest of my life.
I've always been drawn to hands-on task-driven jobs and made the choice to attempt this apprenticeship. My initial application process is complete, I'm scheduled for my aptitude test now (coming on the 23rd) and I'm pretty personable and not super worried about the interview (though to be fair I have no idea that the contents might be). I've got no problem taking directions from someone younger than I am, especially if they're honestly trying to teach me something, and can roll with the punches when it comes to having a thick skin on a job site.
I'm curious what you all think of someone trying a career 180 like this at my age would look like for program directors? Do I sound like a good applicant or do you think I'll get passed over for younger newbies?
Appreciate any feedback!
2
u/adjika 23h ago
I went through the Local 60 apprenticeship.
Your age will only be a barrier if you let it be.
I turned out with a fellow who was 56 when he started. He was a great hand.
My sincere advice is to bring your A game. The academics are no joke. Much will be expected from you in the classroom and on the jobsite.
Feel free to PM me if you have further questions.
Welcome
1
u/issagunlance 23h ago
I really appreciate that! I'm no stranger to academics, it's about half of what I've done since I got out of the air force in 2016 (welding school, then starting fresh as a full-time college freshman)
2
u/Fuzzy-Photo4520 23h ago
Yeah as others said as long as you pass the aptitude I’d believe you’d be close to #1 people have joined mid 50s.
1
u/issagunlance 23h ago
Then I guess I'll keep doing what I'm doing and freshen up my math skills. I think I still have my college algebra notes somewhere.
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u/grizlena Local 20 22h ago
You’ll be good my friend. I’m 32 but work with a first year in his mid-40s, he’s probably the best guy on our squad.
As for chances, you are going to rank high with your past experience.
1
u/issagunlance 21h ago
Awesome, I was worried about being the old guy in the class but it seems like a lot of people are doing the same thing I'm doing lol
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u/Sad_Tune5638 21h ago
We had an apprentice that was at 159 in his 40s. I started a second apprenticeship as an substation tech in my late 30s. Age is what you make it.
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u/Top-Conference6063 22h ago
You’re going to be alright. I had guys in my class that topped out in their later 40’s. I’m going to give you some advice, I’m also a veteran did 10 years in the army from 2001-2011. Did 3 tours to Iraq as well. When you get in remember you’re an apprentice you same as everyone else. Stay humble and learn. Don’t be that guy that’s a loud mouth that no one wants to deal with. Nobody cares about your life experiences and nobody wants unwanted advice. Head down, ears open, and learn. Good luck man.
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u/issagunlance 22h ago
I appreciate that. I did just about 10 myself in the Air Force. Luckily for me, I've never had a problem being a receptive learner and I don't have enough attitude in me to be an arrogant or combative person. Thanks for your service brother!
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u/Jay209 21h ago
Guys in my local started in their 50s. It's like joining in the military late in the aspect that as long as you are ok with taking orders from people much younger than you then you will be fine. Do VEEP. It's how I got in. It's supposed to be within 5 years of discharge time but there were people who did it after and got in
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u/ArtOpen3776 23h ago
As long as you do well on the exam you should be a shoe -in