Hello page, I am Andre I have attented formal training of Carpentry, Masonry, and some electrical. I have continuing education also in Carpentry to keep up with the latest in the building trades. I have only about 4 years total of on the job experience and it is difficult to attend apprenticeship in El Paso, TX. I have wanted to begin my own contracting business, and start small remodeling jobs as a solo builder. What would you recommend I do? Should wait to gain more experience through attempts at an apprenticeship, or obtain more OJT as I do more projects? I have done work with Habitat for Humanity, but my schedule do to being in the military has taken my time that I would be able to volunteer. Your input would be appreciative.
Apprenticeships
1 - 3 of 3 Posts
Just my thought,I think it is always a good idea to know your song well before you start singing.
At what point can one "hang out their own shingle" ? I think it depends on the individual however,learning is a life long process but a lack of knowledge can put more bumps in the road than need be.
Just shooting from the hip,6-8 yrs experience seems to be a good time frame before one ventures out on their own. Just my opinion though.
At what point can one "hang out their own shingle" ? I think it depends on the individual however,learning is a life long process but a lack of knowledge can put more bumps in the road than need be.
Just shooting from the hip,6-8 yrs experience seems to be a good time frame before one ventures out on their own. Just my opinion though.
Thanks
Thanks for the input. I will always continue to learn, and also business aspects that other builders dont do in my area at the moment. I think as a solo builder starting off would be to do more of remodeling work, as not saying opposed to, rather than focusing on new home building. I can do new home building but would be time consuming if I were to take an offer on it starting off. I know what I am doing, fully understanding my limitations as well. For me I think the best thing to do is to focus more on remodeling and additions and rework profits into the business for some time until it is determined that I can hire a quality crew and management team. For the moment while I have the funds to buy most of my equipment some will be rented for specific jobs i.e. Wall hoists, drywall hoists, and renting lifts for second floor material. Well I will stop ranting on this thank you again for your input. :thumbsup:
Thanks for the input. I will always continue to learn, and also business aspects that other builders dont do in my area at the moment. I think as a solo builder starting off would be to do more of remodeling work, as not saying opposed to, rather than focusing on new home building. I can do new home building but would be time consuming if I were to take an offer on it starting off. I know what I am doing, fully understanding my limitations as well. For me I think the best thing to do is to focus more on remodeling and additions and rework profits into the business for some time until it is determined that I can hire a quality crew and management team. For the moment while I have the funds to buy most of my equipment some will be rented for specific jobs i.e. Wall hoists, drywall hoists, and renting lifts for second floor material. Well I will stop ranting on this thank you again for your input. :thumbsup:
1 - 3 of 3 Posts
Join the discussion
Contractor Talk - Professional Construction and Remodeling Forum
A forum community dedicated to professional construction and remodeling contractors. Come join the discussion about the industry, trades, safety, projects, finishing, tools, machinery, styles, scales, reviews, accessories, classifieds, and more!
Full Forum Listing
Explore Our Forums
Recommended Communities
Join now to ask and comment!