Johnb,
I think that I can relate to your situation. I have a BS in electronics and worked for 12 years as an engineer for various manufacturers.
I too was burned out and when I lost my job I had to make a choice. Localy all the demand was for tradesmen. If I wanted to stay in engineering I was going to have to relocate again.
I chose to go to work for a local contractor. Because of my education the state let me take my journeymans test right away. I've been doing it for the past 10 years now and I still like it.
I've never been in the union but I do have relatives who are union. Biggest difference is that the union pays better and has good benefits. My company pays toward medical, but if I'm disabled I'm just SOL. The other thing is that with the union you have to go to where the work is, frequent moves seem to be the norm, but that may vary depending upon your location.
Good luck with whatever you decide.
GJ
