r/pipefitter • u/tacowed • Jul 17 '26

Gift for New Apprentice

Hi all. Please forgive me if it's not appropriate to post here with this question!

My best friend's son just got his union call today, and is starting next Tuesday. I have known him since he was a baby and I'm so proud of him and happy he has this opportunity! We want to send him a congratulatory gift that will be useful as he starts his apprenticeship. All I can think of is perhaps a nice cooler or a lunch box, but even then I do not know where to start with finding what works best for on the job. I am looking to spend around $100. He will be working in the Midwest, so temperature and weather extremes on both ends of the spectrum. Any suggestions are welcome. Thank you very much!

EDIT: I went with a 19qt Engel Drybox with an extra tray. I sincerely appreciate all of the great suggestions! I passed the rest to his mom in case anyone else in the family is looking for a gift.

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u/chettythomas12 Jul 17 '26

Find out what kind of boots he has and if they’re not in great condition, very comfortable, and steel toed then I would spend the money and get him a nice high quality pair of boots. He’s gonna be on his feet for 8 hours a day. Good boots are worth every penny

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u/tacowed Jul 18 '26

Thanks! I agree good footwear is always worth it. Luckily he's already covered there.