Chances of Getting into Apprenticeship - No Work Experience

[newvendetta]

Theres an apprenticeship program with the UA 250 in Los Angeles. The lady told me about 400 people apply and 200-300 get accepted into the 5 year program. Then Ill have help from the union finding employers.

What are the chances of someone with just a high school diploma, no work experience (helping with family business and volunteer library work) and experience fixing computers getting hired?

Im not so much worried about getting into the apprentice program but more being taken in by employers because of my lack of work experience. Im completely new to HVAC. Should I expect the union to hold my hand through this? I really dont know much about this so Im asking here.

[cec39466]

Union apprenticeship programs take time. You will learn allot in that time if you apply yourself. When you’re hired they understand your skills and your pay will be adjusted accordingly. It is an education and if there is a market in your area I don't think I would pass it up. Get the most out of that time though.

[newvendetta]

But are employers willing to take you under their wings while you learn even if you have no work experience or experience in the HVAC field?

[NY2GA01]

IMO, you will most likely could get hired with a small company, not a large company.

With a smaller company you may be working with the owner that may need someone to help him. He may be willing to bring you on for a reasonable wage as a helper.

Make sure that you have your epa license behind you, that may be a requirement for a smaller company, or anyone.


You have to understand that in this field there is a lot of things that can seriously hurt you / kill you and others fast.

Without any knowledge of anything means a huge liability.

Good Luck!

[newvendetta]

IMO, you will most likely could get hired with a small company, not a large company.

With a smaller company you may be working with the owner that may need someone to help him. He may be willing to bring you on for a reasonable wage as a helper.

Make sure that you have your epa license behind you, that may be a requirement for a smaller company, or anyone.


You have to understand that in this field there is a lot of things that can seriously hurt you / kill you and others fast.

Without any knowledge of anything means a huge liability.

Good Luck!

What do you mean have my EPA license? How am I supposed to get it if Im just barely starting to learn?

From what Ive been told, once I pass the interview and written exam, I will be in the program and the union will help me find an employer whom I will work with while learning the skills required. At what point am I supposed to get my EPA license? I thought the EPA license was something I was supposed to get after the apprenticeship program.

[NY2GA01]

What do you mean have my EPA license? How am I supposed to get it if Im just barely starting to learn?

From what Ive been told, once I pass the interview and written exam, I will be in the program and the union will help me find an employer whom I will work with while learning the skills required. At what point am I supposed to get my EPA license? I thought the EPA license was something I was supposed to get after the apprenticeship program.

EPA licence is open you anyone that is willing to pay to take it, it's not that hard of a test with some studying. That may also make the written test and interview a little easier.

You asked for an edge on getting in the door and I gave you my opinion on how to get in is all.

[btuhack]

Find a big shop and get hired on as the driver with them knowing that you have your eyes on an apprenticeship. Do their running around for a while, and if they like you, they'll put you in the program.