2 answers
Joseph
Student
Dalton, Massachusetts
1
Question
Updated
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Should I go into the union for electrical or go private company?
Can you help me with my answer
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2 answers
Eyvand Fortney
Senior Estimator
2
Answers
Morgan Hill, California
Updated
Eyvand’s Answer
Choosing between union and non-union work is an important decision. Many union companies are private, just like non-union ones. People have different opinions, from owners to employees. Unions often provide great opportunities to learn a specific trade and ensure fair wages, medical insurance, bonuses, retirement, and job security. Union apprentices usually start with higher wages compared to non-union ones. Hiring a union worker means knowing they meet certain standards and have received quality training. If you have more questions, feel free to ask, and I'll be happy to help!
Franny Buzimkich
Executive Concierge
23
Answers
Wolcott, Connecticut
Updated
Franny’s Answer
Hi Joseph,
Deciding whether to pursue a career as an electrician through a union or a private company depends on your career goals, preferences, and what kind of work environment you value. Here’s a comparison to help you decide:
Joining a Union (e.g., IBEW - International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers)
Pros:
Apprenticeship Programs: Union apprenticeships are well-structured, often with excellent classroom instruction and hands-on work, combining paid training with education.
Better Pay and Benefits: Union electricians generally get higher wages, good health insurance, retirement plans, and other benefits.
Job Security: Unions often have strong contracts with employers, offering better job protection and regulated working conditions.
Networking and Support: Being part of a union provides camaraderie, professional support, and collective bargaining power.
Career Advancement: Unions often provide ongoing training and certifications which help career growth.
Cons:
Union Dues: You’ll typically pay union membership dues, which reduce your take-home pay somewhat.
Assignment Limitation: Union workers might have less choice in job sites or employers depending on union contracts.
Entry Competition: Union apprenticeship spots can be competitive to get.
Working for a Private Company (Non-union)
Pros:
Flexibility: Private companies might offer more variety in the types of projects you work on and sometimes more flexible schedules.
Potential for Faster Advancement: Some private companies offer quicker promotions or ownership opportunities if you prove yourself.
Negotiable Pay: You might have more room to negotiate wages and benefits directly with your employer.
Diverse Experiences: Private companies range widely in size and focus, giving you chances to get different experiences.
Cons:
Pay/Benefits May Vary: Non-union wages and benefits can differ significantly — some private companies pay well, others less.
Less Job Security: You might have less protection against layoffs and fewer benefits than union workers.
Training May Vary: Private companies may invest less in formal apprenticeship programs or ongoing training.
Which is Best for You?
If you want structured training, stable employment, strong benefits, and union support, going through a union apprenticeship is often a safe and rewarding choice.
If you value flexibility, potentially faster advancement, or live in an area where unions are less active, a private company might be a better fit.
Additional Tips:
Try to talk to current electricians in both settings.
Consider where you live — some regions have stronger union presence than others.
Think about your long-term career goals (e.g., becoming a master electrician, starting your own business).
Deciding whether to pursue a career as an electrician through a union or a private company depends on your career goals, preferences, and what kind of work environment you value. Here’s a comparison to help you decide:
Joining a Union (e.g., IBEW - International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers)
Pros:
Apprenticeship Programs: Union apprenticeships are well-structured, often with excellent classroom instruction and hands-on work, combining paid training with education.
Better Pay and Benefits: Union electricians generally get higher wages, good health insurance, retirement plans, and other benefits.
Job Security: Unions often have strong contracts with employers, offering better job protection and regulated working conditions.
Networking and Support: Being part of a union provides camaraderie, professional support, and collective bargaining power.
Career Advancement: Unions often provide ongoing training and certifications which help career growth.
Cons:
Union Dues: You’ll typically pay union membership dues, which reduce your take-home pay somewhat.
Assignment Limitation: Union workers might have less choice in job sites or employers depending on union contracts.
Entry Competition: Union apprenticeship spots can be competitive to get.
Working for a Private Company (Non-union)
Pros:
Flexibility: Private companies might offer more variety in the types of projects you work on and sometimes more flexible schedules.
Potential for Faster Advancement: Some private companies offer quicker promotions or ownership opportunities if you prove yourself.
Negotiable Pay: You might have more room to negotiate wages and benefits directly with your employer.
Diverse Experiences: Private companies range widely in size and focus, giving you chances to get different experiences.
Cons:
Pay/Benefits May Vary: Non-union wages and benefits can differ significantly — some private companies pay well, others less.
Less Job Security: You might have less protection against layoffs and fewer benefits than union workers.
Training May Vary: Private companies may invest less in formal apprenticeship programs or ongoing training.
Which is Best for You?
If you want structured training, stable employment, strong benefits, and union support, going through a union apprenticeship is often a safe and rewarding choice.
If you value flexibility, potentially faster advancement, or live in an area where unions are less active, a private company might be a better fit.
Additional Tips:
Try to talk to current electricians in both settings.
Consider where you live — some regions have stronger union presence than others.
Think about your long-term career goals (e.g., becoming a master electrician, starting your own business).