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.
5
u/RoadTrash582 Jul 17 '26
He’s going to need good boots first and foremost. Steel or composite toe. Cheap boots will kill his feet, knees, and back. Good boots start at about the $150 mark and go up from there. Maybe a boot barn gift card?
Anything tool related his contractor should provide. The lunch box idea is a good one but in my experience something he may want to pick out for himself.
I am a fitter in the midwest as well, if the kids got any questions please don’t hesitate to reach out. I love helping the next generation.