I started out in the trade at a small company, doing mostly light commercial and residential. Being that it was a small company, they took me under their collective wings and brought me along at an appropriate learning speed.

My best advice to you would be to find an environment where they will "take you in" and you will be allowed to ask many questions. The way I learned was not by just being told what to do, but by also thinking on my own, and asking questions pertaining to what I was doing. (when appropriate...don't annoy the guy by asking too much) Focus on each task to become proficiant at it. Also, pay attention to how the experienced guys are doing things...they usually know what they're doing.

one more thing..take in the jobsites as a whole, much can be learned from other tradesmen as well.

Last edited by goodwill; 12/18/07 11:47 AM. Reason: edited verbage