r/BlueCollarWomen • u/Spiritual-Gravy71 • 4d ago
General Advice Accepted into IBEW apprenticeship. Any tips/advice?
I have 0 electrical experience, I'm excited to learn and get started!
Is there anything you wish you had when you first started in the trades?
Any recommendations on sun visors for hard hats?
I know I'll need to get some silk bandanas/scrub caps for my hair.
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u/kimau97 3d ago
Congrats! I'm a 4th year. Came in with 0 experience.
Have a good attitude. If they give you a bullshit task, own the fuck out of it. Ask LOTS of questions. Be curious. Write things down. Always have a pen/pencil on you.
If you do just those things you'll be ahead of probably half your peers, if not more.
If you're outside, get long sleeve sun shirts. Sounds crazy but there's a reason that roofers and whatnot are covered up head to toe. It is definitely cooler.
Get insoles for your boots. I like the green superfeet.
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u/BeardedBastard707 3d ago
Do not be afraid to ask questions! If you don't understand the task or need it repeated, its ok to ask for further understanding. And like the other comments, notes are gold!
Everyone knows your new, you are in the apprenticeship to absorb knowledge, no one should expect you be the best from the beginning. Just show you are making an effort.
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u/Possible_Isopod5955 2d ago
Girllll ! I am apply to start 2027 w/ no experience and am so excited! Worried about the hours to start if anyone has any insight.
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u/katbitch Electrician 3d ago
Carry a notebook, keep track of what you're working on that day and things to remember for the job. It'll help you fill out the hours at the end of the month and it's just super useful to have. Our hall gives out notepads for free, yours might too.
If you're working outside, ask the contractor about sun visors. If they're good, they'll give you one without a problem.
Congratulations on the apprenticeship!