What you MUST know before starting a carpenter apprenticeship!

Summary

This video delves into the intricacies of a carpenter's apprenticeship, discussing the importance of attending classes, the challenges of scheduling, and the financial implications of training periods without pay. The speaker emphasizes the value of networking, seeking diverse experiences, and the necessity of staying proactive with paperwork and unemployment benefits. Additionally, the video highlights the importance of being well-rounded, advocating for oneself regarding pay, and prioritizing education over immediate company needs for long-term career success.

Takeaways

• 📅 Apprentices must attend classes twice every six months, with schedules potentially affected by COVID-19.
• 🏫 Attending classes provides a break from work, an opportunity for learning, asking questions, and networking.
• 💼 Teachers in the apprenticeship program are experienced and can offer valuable life and career advice.
• ⏰ Apprentices are required to attend four 10-hour days of training at their training center, without pay.
• 💰 Apprentices should set aside money to cover periods when they are not paid, such as during classes.
• 📄 It's crucial for apprentices to fill out and submit their paperwork for unemployment benefits when not working.
• 🤝 Networking with other apprentices and learning about different companies and job types is highly encouraged.
• 🛠️ Apprentices should ensure they have all necessary tools and personal protective equipment (PPE) for training sessions.
• 📝 Keeping a daily journal of work activities can help with record-keeping and addressing any questions about work done.
• 🚫 Apprentices must not allow company pressures to interfere with attending necessary classes.
• 💼 Prioritizing apprenticeship classes and education over immediate company needs can lead to higher pay and better career prospects.

Q & A

What is the frequency of attending classes for a carpenter apprentice?

A carpenter apprentice is required to attend classes twice every six months, although the schedule may vary due to factors like COVID-19.

How does the COVID-19 pandemic affect the scheduling of apprenticeship classes?

The pandemic may cause the classes to be front-loaded or irregular, with the possibility of having two classes in two months followed by a break of several months.

What are the benefits of attending apprenticeship classes for networking?

Attending classes provides an opportunity to network with teachers and peers who are more advanced in their careers, some of whom may have valuable knowledge and resources.

How many hours per day do apprentices spend in training at their training center?

Apprentices spend 10 hours a day at their training center, starting at seven in the morning and ending at five in the evening.

Do apprentices receive pay while attending classes?

No, apprentices do not get paid while attending classes, which can be a drawback for some.

What is the importance of saving money as an apprentice?

Saving money is important for apprentices to cover periods when they are not getting paid, such as during unpaid waiting weeks or while attending classes.

Why is it crucial for apprentices to fill out their unemployment paperwork?

Filling out unemployment paperwork is important because it ensures that apprentices receive the financial support they are entitled to during periods without work.

What is the significance of gaining diverse experience during an apprenticeship?

Gaining diverse experience is crucial for apprentices to become well-rounded journeymen, increasing their versatility and employability in various carpentry tasks.

Why should apprentices avoid specializing in only one area of carpentry during their apprenticeship?

Specializing in only one area may limit an apprentice's skills and opportunities, making it harder to find work if they are laid off or seeking new challenges.

What should apprentices do to ensure they have all the necessary tools and materials for training center classes?

Apprentices should make sure to bring their tools with them to the training center and not rely on the center to provide them, as it may not always be possible.

Why is it essential for apprentices to keep track of their hours and fill out their MPRs?

Keeping track of hours and filling out MPRs is essential for apprentices to document their progress, ensure they meet the criteria for a competent journeyman, and avoid potential issues with their apprenticeship.

How should apprentices handle conflicts between their company's needs and their apprenticeship responsibilities?

Apprentices should prioritize their apprenticeship responsibilities, such as attending classes, over their company's needs, as their education and skill development are crucial for their long-term career.

What should apprentices do if they believe they are due for a pay increase but have not received it?

Apprentices should advocate for themselves by contacting their advisor or supervisor to ensure they are correctly compensated for the level they have achieved.

What is the main advantage of attending apprenticeship classes for an apprentice?

The main advantage is the opportunity to take a break from regular work, recenter, and switch up their schedule, while also gaining valuable knowledge and skills.