r/IBEW_Book2

I’m a new first year apprentice in SoCal and been with a non union GC for a month. So far I’ve done 1 day of electrical related work. They keep telling me to be patient and the work is coming but it’s one set back after another.
I’ve already waited so long to get into the program.

It’s just me and a foreman on the site and he’s constantly complaining about how unorganized they and unsafe they are, but “the checks are cashing”. Im really eager to learn the trade and want more than just a paycheck.

Just been helping the laborers doing forms and grading, and it doesn’t feel right. The whole situation feels so ratty and disappointing. They haven’t sat me but they won’t lay me off. Any one have any suggestions or words of encouragement? Foreman says i can demand a layoff but “I will have to go in front of the committee and almost certainly will be dropped from the program”, which I obviously don’t want to do.

Hey everyone,
I just got the offer for an IBEW Outside Lineman apprenticeship and I’m trying to get a clear picture before I start. Looking for honest input from current apprentices and journeymen who’ve been through it.

What I’m mainly after:

• Pros and cons from your experience (pay/benefits vs. the reality of the work)
• Things I should be aware of going in (travel, hours, physical demands, weather, family life, living arrangements, etc.)
• Tips for not being a pain in the ass as a first-year — attitude, work habits, what JLs actually appreciate or can’t stand
• What the first 6–12 months realistically look like day-to-day
• Anything you wish someone had told you before you started
I’m not looking for the sales pitch — just the real version. Appreciate any straight talk.

Thanks.