u/Upper_Pie_223

First and foremost, apologies if this isn't necessarily the right sub for this kind of post. Just trying to use any resource possible to see what options I have since I am still fairly new to the area. I moved here last here and applied for IBEW Apprenticeship earlier this year, however with my experience, I was put on the ranked list rather than being instantly accepted and I'm trying to do anything I can to improve my chances. I need to clock 450 hours of electrical work. Even just being there to do grunt work is fine. I've also been on the waitlist with the IBEW to be a helper way before I even took my test or had my interview but they are severely overbooked. Rather than waiting for a call, I'm trying to be proactive and find other ways I can get these hours in. Besides trying to contact signatory contractors on their website or work non-union for a while I was just curious if there are any other resources or outlets that can help me get some work in the field. I thought about volunteering for Habitat of Humanity however IBEW told me "general construction" work wouldn't count for my 450 hours and I need to specifically get electrical construction experience, or basically any hours working around/with electricians. If anyone would have a recommendation on who I can contact, what I can start looking into, I would greatly appreciate it. Thank you in advance and have a blessed day.

Apologies in advance I'm sure you guys get asked questions like this often. I haven't even gotten my scores yet, and although I think I did well on answering the questions, other than 1 that somewhat had me stop and think for a moment, it seems they really just emphasize that helpers are the ones that get in if you don't have prior experience. I've been on the waitlist to become a helper for about 5 months now. So rather than just waiting to be called for it, what are some other ways I can increase my chances of being accepted?

I'm going to keep my fingers crossed regardless and see what the email says when I receive it but I'm just trying to be as proactive as possible and show how bad I really want this.

Had 2-4 hours of sleep each night, on top of working this week, to do extra studying on units I wasn't comfortable on, just for there to not be any questions related to those units lol.

I still have access to iPrep so I'll be sure to check out the "how to pass the interview" portion but just looking for any other tips from people that may have some insight. It seems like the Local I applied for is in need of people so I guess as long as I do decent on it I should be fine.

Thanks in advance.

Also, if I need to extend my leave, I've read on this sub that I can also request FMLA. How does this work? Just trying to make sure I follow the proper protocol on this, as it's my first time ever using a paternal benefit. Thank you in advance.

I've tried to find coverage since last night and I feel like I did my part. I never call off, never leave early. I've done 50+ hours all of April covering other people's shifts but cant find someone to do that for me today. And I've also seen people go home because their stomach hurt. I have a huge migraine and I feel slightly dizzy. So what can I say if the assistant manager (acting manager for today) says she doesn't have coverage. Thanks in advance.