New To Field

sdes2003

Hello,

I am from MA (New Bedford area). I am considering getting into the field. I know a fair amount about wiring, but no formal training. I really like it, because it just comes naturally. I mean it seems common sense when I am thinking something through. Anyway, I am just wondering if there is anyone from my area that can point me in the right direction. I know I need to take a course, I believe I need 600 hours of class and 8,000 hours of hands on, before I can sit for the journeymans. Is this correct? Any good schools in the area you can recommend. Any way I can get the hands on without the schooling first. Any advice will be appreciated

sdes

JAL

Take a look at the thread "Apprentices" three treads down. Then come back to this thread and post again.

Sparky Joe

I would reccommend talking to your local union(IBEW). Youll get the best experience, training and schooling(for a lot less than community college) in the country, and best pay for your area. Not to mention benefits, 2 pensions and an annuity. Though if residntial is your goal, then good luck, because thats a pretty cut-throat world.

JAL

Since you did not come back.
The best way to get started is to find an employer in the electrical trade and apply for a job. Do some checking around of different employers, some of them have good reputations and are good to work for. Looks like you have a good start with your stated experience and knowledge. This is something a prospective employer would be looking for in new hires.
There are different Apprentice programs and you need choose which best suits you. I believe there is a state run program that is run through local colleges, some private programs and of course IBEW programs with different locals. What you need to do is make sure the state of Massachusetts recognizes the one you get into. This is important!

You might look to Rode Island and Connecticut for opportunities also.

sdes2003

Read the "apprentices" thread. Thanks for the advice. I called a rather big company in my area and they will start the next class around August. I gave them my address so they will send me an application. I also got in touch with the IBEW the next starting date is next year. Don't want to wait that long though. Anyway, thanks for sending me in the right direction. JAL thanks for refering me to that other tread. It is very informative.

JAL

Good Luck guy.