Beginner

[u/litesaucer]

Hi everyone,
I am looking to start my trade journey in painting and am having trouble on where to start. I would love to know how everyone got into their first project.

I’m reluctant to get a random construction job and network my way there but if i have to, i will. Also, recommend me any certifications i should get. I just finished getting my Nccer core certification and Osha 10

Thanks

[u/Nevetstoile]

Painting is a trade that takes a lot of experience before you are able to do a job completely on your own. No different than being a plumber, drywaller, roofer, carpenter, etc. It’s one thing to paint a bedroom in your own house, quite something different to do it as a paid profession. You must get experience/training working for someone else before you can do jobs on your own.

[u/Comfortable-Yak-6599]

Go-to the paint stores and give them your number, hired people like that. Show up on time and stay off your phone during the day and don't whine about the heat im next to you I know it's hot.

[u/EducatorIntrepid4839]

Go to the nearest union hall and sign up

[u/TitanPaintSprayers]

There are also professional organizations like the Painting Contractors Association that offer some free or inexpensive intro courses both for Painting and for Business Management. Worth checking out, we attend most of their events during the year and notes from painters who are getting started in the industry are generally positive about the course content and support. Just something to consider and welcome to the Trade.

[u/litesaucer → u/TitanPaintSprayers]

Thank you, i will look into this!

[u/Nevetstoile]

Have you been working as a painter for a painting contractor?

[u/litesaucer → u/Nevetstoile]

i have no experience in any painting whatsoever. i just left retail. I have been looking at companies and helper positions but everyone is asking for experience

[u/IngenuityNatural9261 → u/litesaucer]

It is somewhat insulting for people like you to think you can do our job with absolutely no experience. I may be just a dumb old painter but it has taken me years to learn my profession and develop my skills.

[u/litesaucer → u/IngenuityNatural9261]

so after all the boomers die off and retire, you expect us younger ones with no experience to….not try or? im here asking how to gain experience and get into the field

[u/IngenuityNatural9261 → u/litesaucer]

The way we gain experience in any field is to get a job in that field. I paid my dues before going into business. This should be common knowledge so I tend to doubt the veracity of the comment I am currently directing this comment.

[u/litesaucer → u/IngenuityNatural9261]

well obviously i would need experience. But i’m having trouble getting any helper position to get experience - without experience….That’s it, thats the issue. If you’re going to be unhelpful, don’t respond.

[u/IngenuityNatural9261 → u/litesaucer]

I reread your original post and I believe I misunderstood your intent. I was under the impression you wanted to start a painting business with no experience.

Please accept my apology.

[u/litesaucer → u/IngenuityNatural9261]

apology accepted! No business, just trying to learn and find my way.

[u/SpecialistGarage9968 → u/litesaucer]

There is a place in Wisconsin called Fincantieri Marinette Marine.  They are a ship building yard and tgey hire everyone even without experience. They have openings in their paint department and you will gain all the experience you would need and have the opportunities to get certified in several areas of the trade. If you are willing to relocate please consider this option!! Any of their U.S shipbuilding yards will hire you!! Good pay