Local 252 New Apprentice - Questions on license, JATC, and career future
Hey future Brothers & Sisters, I am starting as an apprentice in Local 252 in a few weeks. I'm starting green without an apprentice card yet, and I want to make sure I do everything by the book and I'd like to grasp some concepts about how this all works.
Licensing & W2 Hours: Since I don't have my apprenticeship card yet, do my hours immediately count towards my 8,000 hours for my Journeymans license, or only after the paperwork is filled out at the Hall?
JATC Schooling: I have 150 hours of RTI time with Michigan State however I would be happy to start training with JATC - when you're hired on as an Apprentice with the union you are guaranteed this training, right?
Joining: My shop mentioned taking me down to the hall within the first month. Does this involve taking the entrance exam and doing the interview? Am I "Organizing in" or is there a different term for being hired as an apprentice at a union shop?
Long-term question: If I complete the 3 year residential apprenticeship (*which I am only assuming that I'm in, I could be inside? Not sure how that works!). Is it possible to switch to inside wireman say 5 or 10 years down the road? I'm thrilled to join the IBEW either way, but I'd like to continue my education further after the 3 years residential program is complete - and I'd like the opportunity to work both if possible.
Thanks for any insight. I am excited to get to work and I intend to represent the union to the best of my abilities!