Hello Mr. Brubaker,
Well, if you came to this forum to ask this question, I can only think that you have put alot of thought into this.
Let me answer your questions with some sincere questions of my own.
You are a 28 year old student. How long have you been going to school? What courses have you taken in school? What courses are you taking now? Has math been a strong suit? What type of work have you done in the past (mowing lawns, McDonalds, quantum physicists)? What type of jobs do your parents do? Siblings? What type of interests do you have?
For the average American, 40 hour minimum work weeks do end after a certain amount of time, be it retirement or death. You get used to them. After a while, if you like what you do, you don't mind and actually look forward to going to work. It is a place to socialise and shine. You will make friends that become as close as family. You feel there pain, you feel there joy. That is life.
Entering into the apprenticeship program is a BIG undertaking.
I am indentured into an industrial electrician apprenticeship program. It is in association with the IBEW/NJATC. The key word here is indentured. I have given my word to the state of California that I will stay in this program for the full term of apprenticeship. I work 40 plus hours a week (up to 84) and go to school one night a week. I entered into this life (it is not just a job) knowing full well that it was going to be hard but fulfilling work. I am 37 years old and will finish the apprenticeship when I am 40.
If you want to see what it is like to be an electrician, contact the local IBEW and tell them your wishes. Be honest not only with them, but with yourself.
If you truly want this, I wish you well.
If not, step aside and let someone else step into the program.
Tim
