Even Local Painters' Union Is Telling Me This...

They don't have enough job opportunities going around, so even if they accept me as a new member, it'd be a waste for me to pay union dues and not get any work. I was advised along with another guy trying to join, that it's better to wait until sometime next year to inquire joining again as a painting apprentice. So much for the skilled trades being a viable option to work; before anyone asks, yes I already tried cold calling many trade employers, but they want experience. Ok maybe I'll continue waiting for the interview(s) at the automotive company my dad's colleague referred me to.

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DogMan · 61-69, M Best Comment

My advice to you is what I did. I am a subcontractor in the Southwest U.S. I got into
the commercial door business almost 40 years ago. I started as a floor sweeper, then
a delivery driver, then a shop worker, prepping doors and welding frames, than I
worked in the hardware warehouse. After that I moved into estimating and project
management, then purchasing and general management. After 17 years of learning
everyone's job. I started my own door company, which I have had for the past 21
years. I never went to college, only the military. It was very easy for me, due to
knowing the business inside and out. It can be done with almost any trade.

uikakarotuevegeta · 26-30

@DogMan that's good advice but even dishwashing, custodian, and housekeeping positions need past work experience nowadays. I don't know anyone who's in those industries so I can't bypass that requirement. My dad does work as a CNC machinist for a regional contractor, but I didn't attend higher education just to end up in the same job as he did (as a highschool dropout). besides I don't really like being around my parents, so why would I work at the same place he does? He has asked me if I wanna be referred to work as an apprentice there, and I might consider it but at another factory of the same company if I'm desperate (I was warned he can't refer me to there though).

DogMan · 61-69, M

@uikakarotuevegeta I didn't have any experience in the door business, but I got my
foot in the door by sweeping floors, after that I showed them I could do more.

You can do it! with your education, you will be able to move faster than me. I
didn't start my company until I was 44 years old. I'm 65 now, and just bought
a house for my father in law. I paid cash 400k, if I can do it, you can do it.

Think positive my friend.

uikakarotuevegeta · 26-30

@DogMan yeah for me, i started my own company last year in my mid 20s, although i think i underestimated how much shit i have to do before i can make revenue or profit. I think I could've waited until this year to apply for a business license and have co-founders, and still be alright.

Where are you buying a house for 400K in 2024? I don't know how that's possible unless it's in the middle of nowhere or in a poorer country. I live in a suburb near Toronto and the home (which my dad fully paid off the mortgage a few years ago) can easily sell for over a million dollars. And that's before anyone engages in an auction bid due to housing demands.