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Why is it good to join a union sometimes in Hvac ?
I am a senior in highschool and I have been wanting to get into the HVAC program and I was hoping I could get some answers on here. How do I prepare to become a HVAC ?
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Liam’s Answer
Hey Trevor! Its hard to explain to someone that hasn't worked many jobs but the union controls the labor for the jobs and the contracting companies find the jobs and run the business. Unions have gotten a bad name for some because you have to pay the union, you have to follow the union rules even if you don't like the rules, and businesses sometimes want to control all aspects of a job and don't want a union to disagree with them. The difference between a trade union and other specialty unions are, you can get trained by a union starting from entry level, your healthcare is usually handled by a union, your other benefits get handled by the union (so if you change companies ever it stays exactly the same), you get your job from the union (sign the books and wait for your number to get called), and you have people doing the same kind of work you do in the area so you can ask questions/ compare notes/ tell stories to people who understand them.
Right from the start a union should have some sort of an apprenticeship and be able to get you from a laborer to a journeyman in the matter of about 4-6 years. They should also be able to get you safety training (OSHA 10 or 30) and other certifications (handling gas, coolants, and waste materials) needed to work the job. They will also help you start up financially as well by starting retirement as 401k and or a pension for retirement.
With all of this said, you do not HAVE to join a union in order to do this. The difference will be you will rely on your company more, you will have to find the apprenticeship classes yourself, figure out your requirements to hold a license yourself, and set up your finances for yourself. I feel the union is a better deal for someone starting a career from nothing but keep doing research so you know if it is best for you.
Right from the start a union should have some sort of an apprenticeship and be able to get you from a laborer to a journeyman in the matter of about 4-6 years. They should also be able to get you safety training (OSHA 10 or 30) and other certifications (handling gas, coolants, and waste materials) needed to work the job. They will also help you start up financially as well by starting retirement as 401k and or a pension for retirement.
With all of this said, you do not HAVE to join a union in order to do this. The difference will be you will rely on your company more, you will have to find the apprenticeship classes yourself, figure out your requirements to hold a license yourself, and set up your finances for yourself. I feel the union is a better deal for someone starting a career from nothing but keep doing research so you know if it is best for you.
Updated
Magan’s Answer
Being in a union has many advantages. You can earn more money and get better benefits. Unions also offer great training and education, helping you feel secure in your job. They ensure fair pay and provide apprenticeship programs to help you grow your skills.