Hi Jordan,
As you may have noticed its going to take some doing to gain a little respect in the trade:) Hang in there!
The most important tool you already own. It's kept between your ears. Don't let anything happen to it!
The only other thing of equal importance is going to be your attitude. Are you prepared to be responsible, dependable and helpful in any way you can? Can you remain positive while performing unpleasant tasks?
If not then don't bother wasting any money on expensive tools. The first few months of employment will most likely be spent proving you have what it takes.
Prove that your trainable and you will be trained. Be trained and you will be respected.
I'm not saying let yourself be abused. Some guys get a little too much sadistic pleasure out of breaking in the new guy.
Just expect to work hard, listen closely, and take some chiding and know that in the end it will be worth it.
