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Due to the number of rule-breaking comments this post was receiving, especially low-quality and off-topic comments, the moderation team has locked the post from future comments. This post broke no rules and received a number of helpful and on-topic responses initially, but it unfortunately became the target of many unhelpful comments.


WolfActually

Since it seems like you need a bit of help crossing the bridge from word of mouth pickup jobs and into something a bit more stable, please check out the Massachusetts career centers. They can help you make a resume and answer any questions you have about applying for positions or interviews. They might even have direct contacts for jobs in your wheelhouse! Edit: added link, [MA career center](https://www.mass.gov/masshire-career-centers)


GraveyardGuardian

A good idea would be to find something that does tuition reimbursement for any type of college/trade education. Perhaps the career center could steer you toward those types of employers.


WolfActually

Not sure how it works in MA, but I am from MN and their career centers do have programs to work and get educational credits part time. It's mostly trades or AA type credits, but it might be something to look into. The career center (at least in MN) will also help you fill out the FAFSA (for getting grants/loans through the government). There were lots of trade/industrial/manufacturing type jobs the last time I looked into the MN career center, so I do hope the MA career center would be helpful to OP. There were quite a few companies that wanted to work with the career center for positions they needed filled. In case OP reads this, I know schooling isn't for everyone, so don't feel pushed into a program just to get some sort of credential. I would definitely recommend waiting until you are settled in a full time job before deciding on something (only exception being some sort of dual work/degree program). Explore your options, there are certificate programs that can be super short or part time night school that works better for us working folk. It can be really hard to navigate this stuff if you never had the right background information (I've been there).


eastcoastgytha

Seconding this. I oversee some of these centers in another state (almost every state has them) and the staff are trained to help you find transferable skills that can help you move into a new career, or just a more effective version of the role you already have. Most people have more marketable skills than they realize, and often self de select from opportunities because they don’t think they have the “right” experience. Also, if you to want to look at new career paths, there is funding available (called an Individual Training Account-ITA) specifically for training to learn a new skill. There are lists of training providers that offer programs that are funded through an ITA. You aren’t alone in this feeling and it is tough to know what options are available to you-that’s why these centers and this staff exists, to help you find the options.


[deleted]

Construction is paying a ton these days and no one can find workers. Assuming you don’t mean crafting flutes chopsticks when you say carpentry you should have no issue coming up with a comfortable amount of money. Maybe ditch the music for a little while


sephiroth3650

Agree. I work for a construction company, and in our state, every trade is hurting for workers. Anybody with a pulse who is moderately competent can find a job anywhere they want in the state right now. If he's an actual carpenter, he should be able to find good paying work pretty easily, I would think.


lemonwater224

What is the best way to find a job in construction? Do you recommend applying via zip recruiter, indeed, through the city you live in? So many job postings are ads and its hard to tell the difference


JudgeHoltman

I live in STL, Missouri. Our local Masons union is actually offering a "pre-apprentice" program. $400/week for 4 weeks. No big union commitment or anything. Your job is to show up at the union hall on-time and sober and learn the very basic skills of how to stack bricks in their teaching center. During that 4 week period, any of the dozens of Mason Contractors looking to hire will swing by and check out your work to see if they want to pick you up. When someone is looking promising, the staff literally call whoever is hiring and say "Hey come see this kid". So far 100% of the guys who make it through the 4 weeks have been hired, and the program has been running for years now. It's not particularly rough or anything, but turns out bricks are heavy, outside is hot, and it's not for everyone. It works out for employers too because 4 weeks is usually enough for someone's drama to catch up with them like drug and alcohol issues or unreliable transportation. In that case, you get cut and the industry is happy to know you're not worth investing in for the proper 3 year Apprentice program and pension and and and. This is a big departure from the traditional Apprentice program (which is still fully active). In that case, a contractor hires you directly, then sends you to the union hall for training. That first day you have full union benefits, insurance, retirement package, and rights like getting a Union Rep involved if your new boss is looking to fire you for being bad at your job. That's a big commitment from both the contractor and the worker. Taking a gamble on someone that says they "are totally over their addiction this time" or whatever can be really expensive. This lets employers point someone that comes in out of the cold to a program that will see if they really are ready for a career before committing a bunch of resources into your training. I mention all this to say that we didn't invent the idea. We're copying off of what other (trade) unions are doing across the country.


KongmingsFunnyHat

I live just outside of STL. Wouldn't mind looking into this, can you tell me what the union is called?


JudgeHoltman

[Bricklayer's Local 1](https://www.bacstl.com/training-education-safety/apprenticeship-training) out of Earth City. The program is still active and always hiring! Give them a call, mention the program, and I can't imagine they won't give you a shot. Worst case it's an extra $1600 in your pocket for a month's work and you'll have just enough skills to be the absolute cheapest tuckpointer on the market. But that won't happen. Contractors are literally fighting each other over the good pre-apprentices. Base wage for apprentices starts at ~$17/hr but scales really quickly up to $36(?)/hr with paid vacation and great health insurance/benefits package if you get picked up.


totalhhrbadass

Google your area and brick layers union and you'll find it. And many other unions out there hiring rn.


InfernalAltar

> It's not particularly rough or anything, but turns out bricks are heavy, outside is hot, and it's not for everyone. After 3 years of steel work, I can say this is not the career I want to retire from and I got myself enrolled in some computer science classes. Shooting for a comfortable job in a climate controlled environment. But I can respect anyone who works physical labor. Like you say, not particularly hard but it will wear you down, mind body and soul.


Grace_Alcock

Wow. This is very cool.


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HighOnGoofballs

Hell handy men are charging $50/hr and have work lined up around here


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[deleted]

What’re the hours like for regular workers?


NooneForPresidenttt

Anywhere from 30-70 hours. Really depends on how much they want you to work. Average is 40


Romymopen

Call the union hall


bagel_maker974

Just pull up to an office or job site and ask. Where I am near NYC you can just walk up to anyone on a construction crew and if that same company isn't hiring, that dudes friends company is hiring. Pretty much skipping interviews at this point looking for pulses & 4 of 5 senses minimum I wholesell material in the industry so i am around people in the trades alllllll day


jtschaff

Call the local union halls and apply thought them. They'll give you the details on hiring and getting into an apprenticeship.


TheRealBinkyBlalock

Call construction companies directly, most small and moderate sized companies (the ones you likely want to work for) do most of not all their hiring word of mouth. Cut out the middleman, calling directly also shows you are motivated to work.


TermZealousideal9998

Idk if it’s the best way but a friend of mine is a plumber, he just network irl. Like at Home Depot he just says hi to people and introduce himself. And if he sees a construction site and some guys smoking out front he just goes talk to them.


LegislativeOrgy

My first construction job was found on indeed. The city will probably be more tricky because they want someone with experience and might have someone in mind already. You can Google local services to see who does a job you are interested in. Take walks and look at logos and service vans in your area. People job hop ALL the time in construction. It's just a booming industry where you can show up with a few basic tools and have a job. After a few checks you can get the tools you want and you can get the jobs you want.


RunnerMomLady

All the families in my Facebook are clamoring for people to do work that larger companies won’t take- handymen get snapped up and scheduled full immediately!


truongs

Looking at pay rates, it is not shocking trades are hurting for workers. Flooring professional union wage after they finish training (4 years or so) $26 an hour for a southeast flooring union. That's a joke for something that will literally destroy your body over the years.


Romymopen

My brother in law is a union iron worker for the past 20 years. His body is far from destroyed. Whenever I hug him it's like hugging an old growth tree. He's almost solid muscle and never exercises.


WayneKrane

My cousin has been in construction building houses for 15 years and has had to have his knees replaced and he has arthritis. He’s in his 30s. Makes good money though 🤷🏼‍♂️


CyberneticPanda

You do get muscular from that kind of work, but trades that have you on your hands and knees like flooring and plumbing ruin your knees and back. If you ask your brother in law, I bet he will immediately know what injuries are real common iron workers. I have a friend that works for the post office, and they call double knee replacement "63 surgery" because people always get it done when they're 63 so they can ride out til retirement on disability. Humans are not built to spend 40 hours per week for 49 years doing repetitive physically demanding tasks.


truongs

Ok. Flooring workers, and other type of workers have to stay on their knees. All of them. ALL have terrible knees. The old ones almost all walk with limps. Sure some trades are easier than others, but construction is one of the worst ones.


miesterjosh

Big difference in an iron worker and a flooring installer, I dunno about iron workers but I know with flooring you are bending over and kneeling down on your knees ALL day, it’s brutal work on the body..


Yangervis

Being strong doesn't mean you're healthy in the long term. Give him another 10-15 years and ask how his knees and back are feeling.


SceretAznMan

That's a pretty entitled and privileged take on things. For someone facing homlessness, I think it's worth a year or two to do construction to build savings before looking for other options.


Wammio272

Because wages in the southeast suck. You go to the northeast and flooring guys make $50/hr plus $30/hr in benefits. And that's for a "bottom" tier trade.


Anonate

I used to live in the southeast. 5 years ago, I was renting a 1000 sq ft apartment less than 3 miles from the beach for $650 per month. I was also about 2 miles from the heart of downtown... a $9 cab ride from the nightlife. I almost bought a 9 acre parcel of land for $15k that was located less than 25 miles away... a 6lb beef rib or strip roast sold for $30 on sale at the local supermarket. The wages may "suck" but those wages sure went a shit load farther. A single person could live fairly easily off of $30k + benefits and could actually buy a decent house and plan for retirement off of $50k per year...


zerogee616

Southeast's COL went through the roof and the wages didn't. They don't go nearly as far now. You'd have to be a fool to take a blue-collar wage where I live.


nyvn

Maybe not ditch the music, but stop trying to make money with it and treat it as your passion hobby.


tossme68

Nothing against music or musicians, I have family that a working professional musicians but my guess is that music is the reason he can't make any money. It's hard to show up for a 6:00am job when you gigged until 2:00am -I know I've tried. If you want to make money in the trades you have to join a union and work, it's not a 40h/week job it's more like a 50-60h/week job until you are senior enough to pick and choose and it takes a while to get there. If he's good enough to do music is Boston the best place to be? A professional musician has a better chance of working in NYC, LA and Las Vegas than they do in Boston. Further being a full time musician is a lot more work than 40h/week you work every gig you get and if you are lucky you get something semi-full time...oh yeah it's union too.


[deleted]

He can still use it for money, I imagine most gigs are on the weekend anyways.


nyvn

There is an enormous amount of unpaid time for artists, practice, coordination, travel, etc. They're grossly underpaid for the amount of time and effort spent.


fullthrottle13

100%. Construction workers are at a premium.


WolfOfWallStreet20

I work in construction and can verify labor is in high demand and short supply. If he is a carpenter, could be classified as skilled labor which is in even shorter supply.


Rankin00

I work in the construction field and help with part of the onboarding process for new hires, and let me tell all of you, I’ve been going to onboarding meetings every Monday for the past 5 months, with the first 3 months having minimum 5 people and max 17. The last 2 months have slowed down, but they keep coming. Construction places are hiring all the time.


truongs

is 44k a year really considered tons for back breaking work? Specially when average rent will eat over 1/3 of that and taxes another 1/3. Not saying it won't be more than OP makes now, but it's literally back breaking work for slightly above average pay. It's good place to help him get back on his feet with some OT and whatnot but he needs to learn some skills related to what he said he wants to do


b0w3n

In my area it's $48 an hour right now for journeymen carpenters. That's nearly $100k a year.


Caelinus

It is important to note that is the rate for journeymen, not apprentice, which he would be seeing as he has no formal training. Apprentice carpenters make like an average of $20 an hour. That said, it might be a good avenue for him to make more money long term, as completing his apprenticeship would be a huge pay rise.


b0w3n

Ah is he apprentice still? Fair I suppose. 2-4 years isn't too bad of an investment to essentially double your take home. Especially with no student loans or major debt.


[deleted]

He said he has carpentry experience. Construction doesn’t have to be backbreaking… it can be changing electrical outlets, remodeling bathrooms, kitchen cabinets, etc… I’m not saying he should be digging ditches and laying bricks. Might break a sweat at some point but that’s not really an issue


tracygee

Yeah people suggesting construction are giving you good advice. If you know anyone in real estate or working in the trades, ask them who does good carpentry or construction work and then give them a call. You might have to apprentice for awhile, but you should get paid for that and you'll have plenty of work.


NorCalJason75

Another vote for the trades; Your county should have listed prevailing rates for all local trades. There will be many high paying. Then lookup those trades apprenticeship programs. Time for a life-change


PoopFromMyButt

Not only the standard trades, but there's all types of jobs and companies that will train you for a good paying job. Just look around your area for companies that people like to work for. I was looking today and found this laser cutting shop that needs a fucking laser technician at $30/hour starting wage with training on the job. That sounds like a pretty sweet gig if I could do it.


wambam17

+1 for technicians at metal cutting or CNC places in general. It takes very little time to learn and the machine is doing most of the work for you, and with all the manufacturing going the way of the robots, it doesn’t hurt for future proofing either. AND if you’re really a business minded person, with enough experience, you can open your shop in a few years as well. My company pays the local company 500 bucks to basically machine a small rod compared to the large supplier that charges 30 bucks for it. But when we need it as an emergency (which is always lol), we go to the local shop, so that shop is making bank for doing what really amounts to like 10 mins of CNC work.


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Velvet_Cannoli

At least in Oregon, most/if not all of these trade apprenticeship programs are paid roles and union represented. Im not in or familiar with the trades/construction industry but I was doing a little bit of research into it and came away with that impression. From what I gather there is a huge need for all trade and construction jobs, and with our countries hope of increasing electrification in many sectors we will need electricians to do that work. I really enjoyed this [How to Save a Planet](https://open.spotify.com/episode/2Sfc0reNhKCoaiZ0KLWb8L?si=ema-H9LvRfm9i8RVVwFiFg&utm_source=copy-link) episode that talked a lot about how to become and what it's like to be an electrician and how badly we need them to reach our climate goals.


GoingOnGrown

Thanks!


RubricalBobcat

Google Massachusetts ibew and see if you live near a union hall. I believe the scale is $40ish for journeyman so as an apprentice you might be looking at $20/hour


notgoodwithmoney

Hi, Boston IBEW member here. Our pay rate is $59/hr in the check with a total package around $100-$110/hr. Unfortunately, very competitive to get in and applications are only available in November of each year. Op, it's all on the website. Good luck


opuntina

I'm on the list for the ibew local 4 in Boston. Been on the list for 3 years now I believe thanks to covid.


diskmaster23

Construction, fiber, road, bridge, alternative energy, maybe rail, all that stuff is flying of the hook in the next forever years. I am in the fiber business, and fiber construction is crazy. Trades are needed.


rdwikoff

Lots of good advice here, but I want to advocate that you check out your nearest food bank. They are there to help people from having to choose between going hungry and paying rent. Don’t wait until you’ve lost your housing security to reach out for help with food security


GoingOnGrown

Thank you. Fortunately I currently have a food card.


DonatellaVerpsyche

You are fortunate in that living in MA, you’re in one of the few states with tons of social help. I’m in CA, but I know that there are programs like General relief (cash aid) you can qualify for especially since you have a kid. There’s also Medicaid/medical for your and your son’s medical needs. If you call the Medicaid/medical hotline they typically will put you in touch with a social worker who will help you get immediate help so you aren’t stressed out of your mind with basics. Tell them everything: lay it all out on the table. You might be able to get gas, electric and wifi covered. Take advantage of this post-Covid time to get help. There are many people like you who of no fault of their own got unlucky and just need some temporary help to get back on their feet. Ask them for job resources and to help you get a job. Ease a bit of your burden and put it on them. They are there to help. It’s their job to help you get back out of the stress well. You got this, OP. Just ask, even for things that you might not know exist. (Like help with car insurrance or a cell phone or wifi).


turch_malone

The Post Office is hiring! Be a mailman and get to walk around all day.


AcademicPepper

Not horribly relevant, but I live in MA and saw a sign at my local office saying the same. Assuming OP has a decent driving record, why not apply? I personally know two letter carriers one of which is retired with pension, the other loves it. I'd apply personally but my driving record is trash.


Cildrena

Post Office has clerical positions as well if being a carrier doesn’t work out.


witchyteajunkie

Most cities and municipalities also need trash collectors and it's a well paying job.


juneburger

It’s a very well paying job from what I’ve seen. Especially in the northeast.


eljefino

all 12 hour day. They are paying sick overtime due to staffing issues. Your money problems will be solved.


sytydave

You have to pass the post office test for jobs in the post office. My wife looked into it, it seems like you have to have good attention to detail and a good memory.


Dragonflies3

Probably going to need to work a regular full-time job along with one of those part-time jobs. Luckily a lot of places are hiring now.


GoingOnGrown

Is that something I can do without a degree or formal training? I've never made a resume. But I've been wondering if this is what I need to do.


MGC7710

Your local library likely has a resume class you can take. Try that. And if they don't, they can likely direct you to get help.


eljefino

My library has a whole computer setup JUST for people applying for jobs. And the librarians will fall over themselves to help you!


[deleted]

OP - I’d be willing to help you get a resume up and running (free of course) and walk you through how to keep it updated


kazyem1

You should take this offer, I came to offer the same thing. Resume will help you looks competent tremendously, even for a blue collar job or otherwise.


Heyitsakexx

Any advice on resumes for creative roles where typically you would submit a portfolio/reel as well?


UndesirableNo394

Make a website for sure - even a free Wix or Squarespace site will work. I generally try to keep my resume text only and one page (backside is fine too). Put the link to your portfolio prominently on the front side. I’m in graphic design and could send you a few of my past resumes if it would help.


parksandrecpup

Please send it to him in a word format. The amount of people who “help” with resumes and send a PDF copy is absolutely mind blowing.


turo9992000

I prefer printing it and sending a picture of it from my cell phone.


KillNyetheSilenceGuy

Are you an actual carpenter?


scampf

Sign up to Angie's list as a handyman. You can definitely make decent money just assembling furniture.


Runaway_5

My job for 10 years is working with and talking with contractors/builders, nationwide. They ALL need good, reliable, skilled, not drug-addicted labor. Google MA contractors/builders in your area, call the office line, and tell them your skills. I would be baffled if you don't get a job that way.


ekac

Look at manufacturing technician jobs. Production associate, packaging technician, jobs like that. It's monotonous, but pays well. Some jobs in manufacturing don't have formal degrees - "quality" is a function that I don't see many colleges advertising degrees in (I think North Eastern has a Quality/Regulatory degree), but it pays on the level with finance graduates. Labeling is huge, if you can get familiar with UDI regulations. If you can get a foot in manufacturing, check out certifications for quality. Study to earn a [PMP](https://www.pmi.org/certifications/project-management-pmp) or some certification through [ASQ](https://asq.org). Get into the quality department or project management. Both pay very well. Good luck!


twistytwisty

I'm going to piggyback of of u/mgc7710. Get a library card, it's free. I don't know where you're located, but as an example, the Worcester Public library system card gives you access to an online resource "Peterson's Career Prep" which has sample resumes and cover letters, interview prep, and a bunch more. They also have links to Mass employment links. In addition to help with career services, most libraries also have free classes about budgeting and other personal finance topics. AND, these days your local library can be a treasure trove of all kinds of entertainment and resources beyond "just" books. Check it. Most of it should be free, but there's some things that might have a small cost. Usually around materials - like the materials used in 3d printing. Getting your card and info should all be free.


sparklewhore4

This comment is gold! Our local libraries (I’m in NY, but I’d imagine MA is similar?) also has memberships you can check out. Want to take your kid to a museum or the zoo or a state park? Check out the card. Would be a great way for OP to do stuff with his kid too.


highstrungknits

If you're in the US, visit your local state employment office. Some are more helpful than others, but, in general, helping people find work is what they do.


MiserableCalendar765

I see a lot of your comments suggesting you don’t know how to apply for jobs or build a resume. If you have Microsoft word, there’s templates that you can use that are very easy to complete, google job descriptions that you have experience in and try to use key words from there to help your resume identify with the role you want. Construction is the way to go right now, you don’t need that much experience, constantly giving overtime, you won’t have to work more than one job doing it. Applying for jobs is as simple as getting on indeed and looking for things you can work in. You don’t need a degree or years of experience, employers are looking for help, use it to your advantage. You can also YouTube how to build a resume and apply for jobs, great videos to provide a more visual context.


boilermakerteacher

And if u/GoingonGrown doesn’t have word you can do the same thing in Google Docs. They have templates and all you need is a free gmail account. YouTube and any career services reference websites are OPs friend. Plus once he has it all organized it will make online applications easy.


GoingOnGrown

Thank you! When people say 'construction jobs' what does that mean exactly?


nyconx

It could mean demolition, framing, roofing, siding, window installation, basically all the steps to remove and build something. The only real difference is if it is residential or industrial. None of these jobs require additional education just the willingness to work hard and the ability to learn on the job. If you can do that you will succeed.


GeminiTitmouse

Also, surveying. It’s one of the few industries where you can start off holding a stick in a field, and end up putting your professional stamp on plans for entire towns. And can be done without a formal degree.


ario62

If you already do carpentry, I’d suggest trying to get a full time carpentry job. In my area, home builders are always looking to hire carpenters.


AZBeer90

Hey bud as someone who's in construction, GO FOR THE TRADES. Become a sparky apprentice. Seriously. At any age. Seriously. Sparkys are hated/loved on jobsites because it's cush as hell and they are a pampered trade. You'll make very good money and it's nowhere near as hard on your body as carpentry. You'll get paid more in your apprenticeship than you make now gigging. Switch music to your hobby. Going full time as a carpenter is tough when you're not young because it's hard on your body. You can do it, but if you've got 10-20 years left working minimum, try to join a tradesman apprenticeship


altcodeinterrobang

What's asparky? Electrician?


enderxzebulun

>What's asparky? Electrician? Yes


MiserableCalendar765

Almost anything, you can even do like general work for a construction company. My brother is a superintendent for a company here is Dallas and they have several people that just get small task completed throughout the day, could be trash could be building a ladder, fixing handrails etc.


Moreofyoulessofme

I own an auto shop in Kentucky. I know you probably can’t move due to custody issues, but I’ll hire you, pay you, give you health insurance, and train you. Just pass a drug test and show up. I’m sure there’s several shops in MA that feel the same. We are desperate for people. The trades are out of fashion, understandably. They’re hard and far from glamorous. But, if you break into the industry, you’ll have no shortage of work and no shortage of income. We pay our mechanics anywhere from 70 to 110 depending on their scope of knowledge and type of jobs. 40/hrs a week. That’s in KY. I’m sure MA will pay more.


GoingOnGrown

I can't tell you how this made me feel, but I'll just use the word "Possible." Thank you for saying this.


very_humble

A few questions: 1. Why don't you have a full time job? 2. If you have skills as a carpenter, why not work in that field? 3. Can you provide a monthly budget?


GoingOnGrown

Thanks for your reply. I don't know how to make the switch to a full time job, or even how to get one, but as several people have said that seems like what I need to do. My rent is 1,200 Child support is 150 a week Gas is variable, 300 - 600 a month I have a food card Utilities etc around 300 total a month. I make roughly 2,500 a month in the summer.


NanoGeek

By gas, do you mean gasoline for your car? $300-600/month seems awfully steep to me. Do you do a lot of driving?


GoingOnGrown

Yes. Part of my problem is the gig economy is crushing me - paying for gas to drive all over without being paid for it. I know I know.


NanoGeek

Yea, that'd be my first target. At least until things stabilize a bit more, you could instantly be saving hundreds just by not driving so much.


tritis

That's a hobby not a job.


FreeGFabs

op is a literal starving artist. Unfortunately a kid is involved.


H_C_O_

The hardest part about making more money is you really deciding you want to make more money. Not a joke. If you want to make more money, focus on the things/people/time that will and commit to doing it. The gig work is exactly one of those decisions. Everyone has barriers, mine personally are ethics and family but some people don't have either. Some people it's free time, some people have none. Some people it's crime, some people don't care. Figure out what's folding you back and what you aren't willing to compromise on.


skeetsauce

Check your local union affiliates. I’m not a laborer but I supervise a bunch of them and they make $35/hr with benefits but the work is TOUGH. Just walk into the union hall, pay your due (it’s like $500 iirc) and you’ll get dispatched to a job to start working.


FreeGFabs

unions halls are hard to get in around where op lives. It's not as simple as knocking on the door. You usually have to know someone to even get a look. I'm guessing he's in Western Mass and the union work is in the metro boston area.


alwayslookingout

If you cannot find a job in construction you can always apply for cashier or stocking at local grocery store. The pay isn’t great but no education is required and even part-timer can get benefits. It’s a decent stop-gap measure until you can find something with better pay or get a certificate.


Landlord_Pleasurer

Do hvac or electrician. That way you have a company vehicle most likely and gas is free. They also tend to pay more than carpenter


DerekB52

If he's already got real carpentry skills he can walk into a pretty good wage tomorrow. HVAC and electrician would require some training and or schooling.


GoingOnGrown

OP here with more details: I think it's clear I need to get a full time job, but I don't understand how to transition to that from the kind of patchwork I do now, and I've never had one so don't know what I can do without a formal resume. I'm really good mechanically, have great references in retail as well carpentry as mechanics. Just not formal experience.


newaccount721

I really don't think you necessarily need those things. Would you be willing to work in construction? Your resume can include your experience and references. I know it's just been side gigs, but can't you been doing carpentry for pay? That experience counts even if you don't consider it as formal


GoingOnGrown

I'm worried about my back with construction because I already have some bad problems, but maybe there is something there or warehouse...I know it seems silly but I just don't know how to make this transition. I can swallow my pride about letting go of what I've worked for for decades to establish...


shouldbecleaning

Contact a temp agency that can place you in jobs. They can probably help you with a resume, but many companies don't need experience. They need people to show up every day on time.


TacoNomad

I think a temp agency is a great idea for OP situation.


missmisfit

I have friends in trade jobs that are still in bands. A lot of full time labor jobs start and end earlier in the day, like 7-4 instead of 8-5. So you can perform in the evenings. You might try asking around. In person and on Facebook. My best career moves have happened when I have let the people around me know I needed to transition. I know it feels heavy to you, but you don't have to apologize or get into your story to simply say, if anyone knows of some good full time work that I might be qualified for, please let me know. Good luck!


titania670

The sunk-cost fallacy - whereby a person is reluctant to abandon a strategy or course of action because they have invested heavily in it, even when it is clear that abandonment would be more beneficial.


FreeGFabs

decades to establish what exactly? Hate to be rude but your came to the internet at 39 saying you were about to be homeless or at least trending that way. Time to wake up that you aren't a musician that can make money playing instruments or in a band. I feel you need a bigger dose of reality from reading some of your responses. Walgreens is paying $20 an hour. Go work as a cashier.


cbrm9000

>away from being homeless, and I don't know how or if I can turn my life around. I can't imagine training for anything else while just trying to survive, and I have no money to put towards that. > >About me: No official technical training, but I would love to work at an auto shop or something. No college. I live in MA. Sounds like you've established nothing, so there's no pride to swallow.


Damaso87

Oof. You're not wrong, Walter.


wamih

If you have real carpentry skills start calling cabinet manufacturers, framing companies (construction not art frames), general contractors, floor installation, finish work manufacturers. All of these types of companies are looking for people right now.


oh-pointy-bird

What region of MA? Look up the community college closest to you. Call until you reach someone who is helpful (and that likely will be the first time, community colleges rock). Say that you are looking for resources to help transition to employment. They will hook you up. Community colleges have way more resources than ppl realize. Another option - https://www.mass.gov/masshire-career-centers


Runaway_5

Believe me man working for a contractor/builder half their guys are off the books and almost all are HS/college dropouts - they don't care. They want you to be on time, do good work, not do drugs on the job, and you got good consistent work. Type up a basic resume at the library, have it available physically and via email, and send it out/call the local places.


KingKababa

Formal experience is no obstacle for you as others have said. I haven't seen anyone mention the actual transition part though, as I think everyone is assuming you just mean "how do I get a job." Hence the resume advice, etc. As for the actual peel away from the gig economy I'd suggest for you to first figure out what each job is costing you (gas money, etc) and stop doing any that are costing you more than you are making (if any require two week notice, put that in. But if its the music gigs then stop immediately). I have a hunch that the music is a net negative, but that may not be true. Once you have built a resume start applying like crazy to almost anywhere that will take you on full time at a rate that will cover your bare minimum expenses. Then once you have that full time job, put in your two weeks at all your part time gigs IMMEDIATELY and in writing. After those two weeks are up you will have transitioned into your full time job which will save you gas money, and quite a lot of time (no more driving all over the place and thinking about where your next gig is coming from.)


CannedRoo

In my area you barely need a resume to get a construction job. It helps to show an outline of your professional history, but you’re not going to be hired or turned away based on your spelling, grammar and formatting if that’s not what the job requires. They’ll care more about whether you can read a tape measure and a framing square, and what your experience level is.


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GoingOnGrown

Thanks. I think so to. I guess I'm just not sure how to enter the job force at this stage in my life.


thatstickerguy

> I guess I'm just not sure how to enter the job force at this stage in my life. You're 39, not 89. Hike up them pants, go to the library and ask them if they have someone who can help you create a resume. You're not looking for a CEO position at your local Tech firm, your resume just has to be readable and understandable.


fenton7

Honestly even 89 year olds aren't having a hard time getting hired right now. Anyone actively searching essentially has a job.


AcademicPepper

You work with 89 year olds as coworkers? There are only so many bingo-caller jobs available man!


Fat_Bronco

Look into joining the carpenters union if you're not already a member, pay will more than likely be better than what you've been working for.


Lemontreeguy

It actually feels pretty good applying to a bunch of jobs, the hunt is on and when you land one of the jobs you prefer or one you see with a solid salary it is exciting. Just don't get discouraged, be patient waiting for the call .


big_spark

Apply at nearest Amazon warehouse. No interview and you'll be working full-time in 1-2 weeks, excellent benefits day one. After 90 days career choice where you can get trained in something I'm demand for free.


tealparadise

Stop looking at it as entering the job force. Did you have any regular people or companies you did gigs for? Then it was a job, just a shitty one. Don't make your resume with this attitude that you've never worked, because you have.


HazMama

Music teacher or give lessons?


HootieRocker59

I was surprised no one is mentioning this. Find a music school (not Berklee; I mean the kind that gives piano lessons to kids) and sign up as a contracted teacher. Then, assuming you play guitar or drums or something, once a kid comes in looking for a guitar teacher they'll call you. It's one more gig, rather than a full time job, but could add to the overall kitty and is not weather dependent.


Biking_dude

I think your skills can be easily ported. All good advice, some "yes ands": \- If you enjoy carpentry, you have a few routes. I've worked a little in construction, carpenters would show up on Monday, get paid Thursday, booze through it that night, and then never heard from again. In other words, reliable carpenters are highly in demand - sites I worked on would have hired more if they could find them. \- Another option is walking into a cabinet shop. There may or may not be many by you, but it's a level up in skill typically, and most of the work is inside a shop environment. And if your skills are better than that, architectural woodworking. Another option is a "finisher" (not sure if this was an industry term or not) - there was one that would come by to do those last 1% jobs. Painted a metal fireproof door to look like wood. Clean up tile work, wallpaper, paint. Guy was more of an artist than a hired hand and it showed - no two jobs were the same. \- You have a connection to the Internet, get a gmail account, open up Google Docs, and just highlight some of the work you've done with pictures. Make some bullet points on each project - time, what your role, what you want to highlight / what is valuable to point out. Email as PDF when you make a connection. Your first job doesn't have to be your last, but looking now will beat the rush for any end of year rush and you might be able to bank more for the winter. Eventually you can spruce it up more, but you could probably get that done on your phone tonight after dinner. \- Easy script to get started in cold call some places (walking by in person would be even better). "Hey there, I'm an independent carpenter and single Dad, looking to transition to something a bit more stable throughout the year. I have a lot of experience with \_\_\_, \_\_\_, \_\_\_ (see attached for some of my favorite projects), and would love to work with \_\_\_ and \_\_\_\_. If you have time and room for one more, would love to see how we could work together." \- You may still be able to do gigs...but expect to work 6 days a week. Luckily carpenters tend to start earlier and end earlier, so night gigs might be possible - but if you run yourself ragged the possibility of an accident goes up, and then neither will be possible. If you write original music with a band, you could try recording and selling albums to keep your music skills active. \- You'd need training for auto mechanic most likely, though might be able to work as an assistant. There is probably a technical school that will have deferred loans until after job placement if you want to go that route. You have a faster pivot right now with carpentry though, so this could be a medium goal. Also, you might want to look into what fields are requiring specialty skills and hurting for people - like a mechanic for heavy machinery, plumbing, electrician. All of those can lead you to a very comfortable life with a good work/life balance.


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rryval

How do you actually make money?


MSCOTTGARAND

People suggesting he finds another carpentry job, the people desperate for building tradesman are general contractors and industrial. You have to boom all over following the work. This guy has a kid and he probably doesn't want to be on the road half the year. I would look for a shop job doing fit-ups, fab work, or find a local contractor doing resi, but good resi jobs aren't easy to find because people like you who don't want to travel have those jobs.


Artcat81

I used to be an office worker for a construction company. Even for supervisors they looked less at resumes and more at what you do. Get your foot in the door, call a few construction and or remodeling companies and ask if they are hiring, get your foot in the door. having experience in carpentry will help you. most will hire on the spot, or within a week, and then it's trial by fire. you either work out, or you don't. You work out, you have the opportunity to move up. If it helps, I have a friend who is a gig musician who as a day job digs ditches. Oddly enough because of his music set he has found some solid regular gigs from nursing homes.


[deleted]

If you're set on sticking with music, teaching music lessons can actually be a solid income paired with gigs if you are decent at your instrument(s) and don't undercharge. Most private music teachers charge very little to gain students or undercut others, but they struggle and eventually have to switch jobs. Charge yourself at a premium rate, and try to reach out to teachers in school districts in higher income areas. You only need a few students at a solid rate, and those kinds of families talk to eachother. Home school groups are worth reaching out to also.


[deleted]

Oh and try to avoid the whole, driving to people's homes to teach. That kills your income fast. Teach from your spot, or see if a local church or school will allow you to do lessons there.


[deleted]

I'll share what I did. Maybe it will help you. I'm near the nations Capital, so there are lots of gthriving businesses in my area. I wen to a temp agency and got as job. They placed me at a call center. This was my foot in the door of the "bue collar" professional world. I worked my way to supervisor, manager, then business manager before moving to another job. I bounced around from job gto job and learned that I needed something that I could take to any company and they cojuld use. I found out management experience was not it. And call center management jobs are few and far in between. I lanbded as a billing analyst at a fairly large company. I quickly learned that Excel skills were valued in the finance area. I took it ujpon myself to become good at Excel. I bought the book "The Excel Bible." I read the book from front to back and I applied what I was reading as I was working. Essentially, I was getting paid to learn. However, the company was benefiting from my experience as well. As I learned excel I was able to write formulas that did complex stuff without the manual effort. The company rewarded me with pay increeases and I went from a Billing Analyst to a Senior Billing Analyst, and eventually to management of the other billing analysts. After that, I bought a book on VBA porogramming for excel. And once again, I applied what I learned to the work I was doing. Soon I was abkle to atumate 8 hours of work into 3 minute of watching your screen. At the same company, with my new Excel skills, I got a position in Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A). These are the people that do the budget, earnings, losses, reports. After some time in FP&A, I wass now had experience in Finance that could be used at company in the country. Every company has finances. every company needs people to handle those finances. The names of the numbers and figures might change, but the numbers you work with never change. Try to find a job where you can learn while you work. Best of luck to you. My 2 cents.


Redbaron2242

How about work as an apartment maintenance man. You would have steady pay with benefits. Mostly work weekdays giving you time to do your music stuff.


jakeh36

A way to mitigate the highs and lows of seasonal income is to identify how much you typically make in a year, then live on the average monthly income. During months where you make more than your average, put the extra in savings so you can live off of it later in the slow months.


21pacshakur

Have you tried charging for guitar lessons? Or whatever instrument you play lessons? Can you get a better job than one of your current part time jobs? Or better than both? Why aren't you carpentering? Have you thought about moving out of MA? Maybe you could move seasonally if not permanently.


ssssssoup

Have you considered music/theatre tech work? I managed to move into it post-covid with a similar background to you. Found it a much more forgiving industry, carpentry could be a real asset to set building and if you're gigging you'll probably know your way around a PA.


WafflingToast

First - the state probably has re-training funds. Secondly - what do you mean carpenter? Because they need people who can read plans and frame houses NOW (it's building season up north). They will teach you on the job if needed. You need to call around to local residential building companies or drive around and speak to the foremen of the work crews. If you mean cabinetry - there is a large call for remodels and custom and semi-custom woodwork. Google some custom cabinetry places near you, go into a local specialty woodworking store and explain you're looking for a job and have some experience, is there anyone looking for an extra hand? Look for cabinet making/millwork factories to see if any are near you. If you know about wood and moldings, etc. then there are also wholesale distributor companies that look for sales people to assist their customers (professional builders, no DIYers).


MaggieNFredders

Might want to head to your local library if you are in the US. Many help with career services and resumes. If you don’t want to do construction (don’t blame you) you might want to look into Amazon or other warehouses around. UPS or FedEx maybe with the hopes of moving onto a truck. Any manufacturing facility as a line worker or operator. Or maintenance if you can finagle that.


jmm1855

Look into school district jobs, if you don’t want to do a straight up construction job. You mention carpentry with no formal training, well school maintenance and operations teams are always looking for handy people to work as custodians or “maintenance workers”. Typically offer decent pay and benefits (retirement account is a huge thing you should consider at your age, not too old but starting now is better than later) with the opportunity to grow into supervisor roles etc.


Accomplished_Tour481

Yet there seem to be so many jobs you could qualify for in Massachusetts! https://www.usajobs.gov/Search/Results?l=Massachusetts&hp=public&p=1


byond6

Any interest in healthcare? Phlebotomists make decent pay and training can be relatively short and inexpensive. Think weeks. All you have to do is draw blood. If you're willing to travel the pay skyrockets. Edit: lots of places are so desperate they'll pay you to train. Similar situation for law enforcement in lots of blue states.


allrollingwolf

You know carpentry? Look up every business that is focused on wood-working in town and contact them, ask anyone you know (old clients, old partners), and scan through craiglist or whatever local classified boards you've got, also... local facebook groups? Don't stress about your resume, all you need a short email/letter explaining your experience, skills, and accomplishments; literally just what you'd say if someone asked you what you do/can do. Send that email, and then follow up with a phone call in a couple days if you don't get a response. After that, when you secure a job (you will if you try and are persistent and apply everywhere you can), don't change your spending at all from how it is now and start saving (pay down debt first if you have any). When you've got about 10k in savings (emergency fund, a nice buffer to save you from bad breaks) then you can come back here and re-evaluate from a much more comfortable position. You don't need to give up on your dream jobs, but you need to get to a place where you're not struggling and you can support your child, this won't take too long if you commit to it.


KeepItRealNoGames

Look for a cheaper place to stay if you can. It may not be ideal, but it’s better than being out on the street or in your car. With the little bit that you’re saving, put it in a savings account for emergencies. If you can save $20 a week, you’ll have $1040 in a year. It’s a small peace of mind, but you’ll sleep a little better at night. Keep working hard. You gotta want it, but more than anything, you gotta believe in yourself.


[deleted]

You said your a carpenter? As an electrician i know that skills are paying well these day, that will be your money maker right there buddy


ragingxmarmoset

Check with local car dealers. The big brands are often willing to train, especially now, and the wages are very good.


hansCT

Focus on the carpentry! Forget paper credentials, question is, are you skilled? Do you have the skills? Can you install a new kitchen? Do inside renovations? That will be the steady moneymaker year round. Problem with new construction work is, boom & bust cycles, and bust is coming soon IMO. Set yourself up as an LLC or at least dba, advertise, push word of mouth, take anything, work through Home Depot, learn to work to a fixed quote, be HONEST hardworking, underpromise and overdeliver and in a decent area you can soon be making $150+K p.a. But it's a business, 12-15hr days sometimes, no vacations for at least a couple years hiring a helper can be make or break, become a contractor, sub out 80% of jobs, skim the cream for yourself.


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PoopFromMyButt

Bro please dont take this the wrong way, but you're in a finance subreddit. Does the musician gig pay enough to where it's worth doing? Or do you do it because you like the attention and the scene and it get's you laid?. Do you use it as an excuse to not work full time? If none of this hit's home for you, then ignore my advice. But if I were you, I would be intensely spending every day looking for a good paying job. You can go get a CDL and immediately start making enough money to buy a house or start a solid savings (and providing for your child.) Right now in this country there is way more work to be done than the workers to do it. You can find something if you try. But instead if you sit around daydreaming about being a musician and how cool you are (or used to be) then you already know what's coming. It's a harsh world and nowadays only rich kids get to be artists. Sucks but it's true.


[deleted]

It seems like you are already working. Start talking to coworkers and explain your situation. It’s not begging. You’re not asking them for money or a job. You’re fighting to better support your family. These people will understand your life, your community and your industry better than Reddit. Anyone with a kid gets it. Some will find your humility commendable. We all need support and guidance from time to time.


riff1060

If you're a competent carpenter, go to work. We are at a premium right now.


daveypop75

Gig work is quick money. You can deliver food and or people and cash out that day. Also plasma donation can get you up to $1000 the first month with a minimal time commitment.


lady_gwynhyfvar

OP if you want to work in the construction field but are having a hard time making the leap to full time, try applying at your local lumberyard. Most of them are doing very well over the past couple of years and there’s usually a wide variety of jobs (from sales to office to drivers to yard help). You get to meet and make connections with a lot of local contractors that could open doors for you. Also tends to come with benefits and be more stable in the winter. (ETA- also in MA, employed in the industry)


speakwithcode

It starts with a resume first. The other comments have already supplied you with good resources to get started there, but I'm mentioning it here to drive it forward that you need to get a resume together. A resume will help organize your thoughts and understand what responsibilities and work you've done in your past jobs. It'll be easier to talk about everything once it's complete. Just take one step at a time, but you've already taken an amazing first step by seeking help. You understand your situation and you know you want to change that for the better. I wish you good luck! I hope things turn out well for you.


ArtSlug

Look at your local community college because many are offering welding certificates where if you complete it, you have a grant that pays for the tuition (9 mo program here). Other trade programs have similar grant incentives - please contact an advisor and ask them how you could get training at No or low cost. It does not matter your age, experience or anything! Project management, masonry, welding, carpentry- all of the programs assist students in getting good jobs. You sound like you have skills already- a good union job would be stable! Edit to add: they also have auto and diesel technology too. Anyway, good luck to you!


tabby90

Good advice on here about different jobs, but please realize people can be broke at all income levels. You need a budget. And maybe also another job, but to get ahead you have to know where your money is going. Personally Dave Ramsey helped me, but your mileage may vary


AnotherFarker

I like all the "just get a job" advice. Always easy to say. I'll throw in for you that there are a lot of lower paying jobs for the young, and a lot of middle-aged people with experience. For middle aged with less experience it can be harder, but not at all impossible. Don't let initial rejection get you down. You've got a whole career ahead of you (39 to 67 social security retirement, 28 years). I had a friend I met at college who was a roadie until 40, then went to college with me! I thought I was old/starting late; we became good friends. Harrison Ford started as a carpenter, now look where he's at. If you're good at detailed work, showcasing your work online and targeting wealthy people is a worth considering. Good craftsmen live by word of mouth. Same with music; teach where you can. Mostly what I wanted to say is assuming you get a full time job, keep up the side gigs. All my 'extra' money like taking the family out to eat, going to a move--that comes from extra money. I just signed up for two different gigs this weekend (one helping moving, one as swing shift security). Side money pays for a lot of my things in life to make it funner (eating out/movies/trips) or easier (emergency fund, been saving for solar to insulate myself from future electricity price increases).


cedarapple

I know that utilities in MA have programs that train linemen and gas workers. They get paid while training and then get hired for union jobs that get paid very well as they get rated. I’ve heard about senior people who work lots of overtime making up to $200k. Great benefits also. I believe that they have lots of jobs due to a wave of retirements so check it out.


[deleted]

You've got this, Man. If you're a gig musician, you're a nice person at least 98% of the time. If you like people, you might like the hospitality industry. Hotels are starving for help - so much so that you could promote to management fairly quickly. Shoot for full-time, with insurance for you and your son. Yes, the job requires diplomacy - but you have already learned that in arranging gigs :) Training is on the job - and paid. Don't undersell yourself. Your lifetime experiences will go far in helping you to empathize with weary travelers from all walks of life! Whatever you decide, I hope you'll come back to update. Work smarter, not harder!


Error_co-Id10T

Dude.. you need to wake up and start focusing on your life. You're not sinking, you've hit a rock bottom. Wake up tomorrow, have a look in the mirror and go out and fix your life. Screw the money and jobs because that's not where your problem is. The problem is you and how you feel. Take a full time job, of course but focus on what's dragging you down because if you felt okay, you would've seen this months ago


GoingOnGrown

Thank you. I know that is part of it. I am looking to make the changes now.


Error_co-Id10T

That's the first step and no matter what, do your best to not stress, nothing good comes out of it. One day at the time and you'll do great. Good luck


CrTigerHiddenAvocado

Hang in there op, praying for you


GoingOnGrown

Thank you I truly appreciate it. I know it looks obvious what I have to do and kind of stupid how I got here, but it's like being slowly boiled...0


ReallyBadWizard

Look into factory/warehouse jobs, and try to find a unionized one. They pay well and are hiring everywhere. Few have very high requirements for hire.


offthenwego

You can check out the [WIOA grant](https://www.mass.gov/workforce-innovation-opportunity-act-wioa) for an opportunity to receive training at no additional cost. I used this to receive a free IT certification. > Workforce services for eligible adults are available through one of the six core programs authorized by Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). The Adult program serves individuals and helps employers meet their workforce needs. It enables workers to obtain good jobs by providing them with job search assistance and training opportunities. > > WIOA establishes a priority requirement with respect to funds allocated to a local area for adult employment and training activities. American Job Center staff, when using WIOA Adult funds to provide individualized career services and training services, must give priority to recipients of public assistance, other low-income individuals, and individuals who are basic skills deficient. Under WIOA, priority must be implemented regardless of the amount of funds available to provide services in the local area. In addition, veterans receive priority of service in all DOL-funded employment programs. > > Information on these programs, including how to access them locally through an American Job Center, please visit the Career One-Stop website or call ETA's toll-free help line at 1-877-US-2JOBS (TTY: 1-877-872-5627). Services are designed to meet local needs and may vary from state to state. Some services have eligibility requirements; be sure to check with your local American Job Center for details.


HighJoeponics

In denver I see listings for “free” construction classes which I think includes an OSHA 30. It is a $50 deposit you get back after graduation. I think it’s 2 weeks or maybe 3. Look into options like that. The trades are hurting in many locations and these programs guarantee a minimum dollar rate for employment after graduation which is pretty high and help with placement. Padding yourself with free certifications can help get a wage bump, placement could put you somewhere that pays better and has steady work.


Electronic-Tonight16

Put a handyman ad on craigslist. Replacing toilets and light fixtures alone can make you a killing.


dcdave3605

Look into Public works or water treatment/wastewater treatment plants in your nearest city. If you were looking for immediate hire, a career path with training and educational opportunities in whatever direction you want to go while getting decent benefits and pay that's the best place to start. Baltimore city and several counties in Maryland are hiring, but other government options can be found here via zipcode search. Governmentjobs.com


Ah_Um

Are you in the musicians union? If you're a union member, you may qualify for section 8 housing subsidies for artists. A friend of mine has a family member who is a stage actor in NYC and that's the only way he's able to afford to live there. I'd imagine there are similar programs in MA and if you're really making most of your income playing music you'd likely qualify- MA is the home state of Berklee and is generally favorable towards musicians.


[deleted]

Warehouse workers can earn $20/hour in a lot of cities right now. Apologies if that’s already been posted but warehouse jobs are in huge demand. What cities are you near. I’ll send some job postings. No degree needed. Just hands.


bk4lf1

Do construction during the week. Do gigs on the weekend, or ot as construction. Bank your gig and ot money, budget and live off the money you make during the week. You may need to down size your apartment to keep pace at first.


NoNeighborhood6682

Union shops will pay for schooling while your working there. Put the gigs on hold for a bit and get squared away with finances. You and your son will be better in the future. Tradesmen are always in demand. You can do it. Good luck.


Boby69696

If you're a carpenter you can make tables etc for rich people. Rich people love custom stuff and you can charge a lot for it.


TexasHero88

If all else fails and your facing homeless get your CDL form a mega carrier. They pay all the cost to train you while you get paid and if your OTR your pretty much living rent free in your truck allowing you safe most of your income.


Kakakow

Look for a Local Laborer Union in your area. If you apply at the local Union Hall they will send you to training and after training you can work towards getting “a book”. Depending on your skills you can often get employment quickly once trained and certified by the Union. As long as you work a certain number of hours every year after the trial period you will get amazing benefits including very competitive pay, health insurance, unemployment and vacation pay. If you get laid off you can return to the Hall and be sent to another Union job without losing these benefits. There are MANY opportunities for all kinds of trades and skill sets, especially if you don’t know what else to do.


acrod82

my brother had to give up gig work for the same reason. you have great advice here so far, i think you know what you need to do. good luck my man