Question for all the trades men

[Mr Carter]

Hi everybody is the the trades industry is on the decline? Cause I am trying to enter into the trade industry but it is difficult because so many obstacles are in my way such as: getting work experience.

What path should I take to get into the industry?

Can you recommend any company's who will take somebody on to train them? (in the areas of gas engineering, electrical or plumbing)

Does anybody no if 26 is to late to start?

 

[Dotty]

It's not on the decline and never will be.

But there are companies who will tell you that there's a huge defecit and then take your money off you.

If you're that keen keep on trying.

 

[Ray Stafford]

Use the search function on the site, and you will find the same question asked in various guises about twice every day. Detailed threads about twice a week.

Headlines are:

No, it isn't impossible to get into the trade at 26 (36, 46, 56) its just very hard
No, there isn't currently a shortage of engineers. If anything, there is a glut.
Avoid commercial training providers who promise the world in 10 weeks in exchange for £6K (£7K, £8K). Regardless of what you pay, you can only get 10 weeks training in 10 weeks. It takes several years to become a decent tradesman, and decades to really master everything.

 

[Killy Bing]

Im new to the industry, apprentice trained, i'm far from dumb, my technical knowledge is.........alright i'd say

in 10 weeks you don't really even have the basics.

let alone the competency to be left on your own with gas....

 

[Mr Carter]

Apprentice trained are you over 25?

 

[Rickster123]

Apprentice trained are you over 2ft5" tall?

At a push...

 

[Chalked]

The problem that faces most candidates of your age is that at 26 you need more money than a 16-18 year old needs, and a younger person is more adaptable to learn. A 16-18 year old has no problem with a 4 year appentiship with rubbish wages. You will be 30 by the time ypu habe finished and may have kids and a house to support.

given the choice I would take on a keen 18 year old rather than a very keen 26 year old!

sorry .

 

[Killy Bing]

Apprentice trained are you over 25?

22 as of Tuesday.

point is avoid a fast track course, most who do are back to their old jobs in a year.

Adam..... I will choose a place on the van out of sight and scratch it, send you the photo 😉

 

[AWheating]

what makes a good tradesman?? well willing to work long hours for poor pay helps..... lol

you can become a good tradesman by doing a proper apprenticeship,or a fast tracked course, or just getting some tools and having a go. Either way if you have what it takes to be good then you can get there and be as good as anybody else. Normally its what cant be taught in the class room thats important to become productive. I personally think the best way is to do a year or two on the tools and then go to college and do some qualifications.

as for the trade being in decline, it is to some degree. Its depends on your idea of what the trade is.

 

[Mr Carter]

Bricklaying trade?

 

[WaterTight]

Bricklaying trade?

could you handle to monotony? plumbing is hugely varied and even that can get boring. bricklaying would just drive me up the wall. and not just because i was building it.

 

[Ermintrude]

Bricklaying is just like plumbing same stuff different day, that is if your house bashing and combi bashing. My job is BORING. But it pays the bills and get to see the odd milf

 

[Mr Carter]

whats your job dere ermintrude?

 

[Mr Carter]

I get what you mean, but what if the keen 26 year old could meet those sacrifices? The money is not the issue, it is making sure I make it in the industry?

 

[Ch4 plumbing]

I started my apprentiship at 22 and found it ok at first but by year 2 just wanted to get it done! If your quick learning proactive and good at manual work you might find whoever employs you will give you more responsibilities and ultimately more money. But be warned it's not just throwing plastic pipe in and walking away, lots say ahh it's easy....I can do that then royally muck it up.

 

[Mr Carter]

I know plumbing isnt easy or any trade is difficult but i am willing to put in the work and effort I've done many difficult things before and havent given up and really enjoyed it.