I've never been in the union so I don't know whats expected. But with us, its not expected for our helpers/apprentices have anything other than hand tools.

Though most of our guys quickly get a set of cordless tools, anything from ryobi to milwaukee/dewault sets. But this isnt expected or required, it just seems like our guys love tools [Linked Image]

A nice pouch would be a good gift if he doesn't have one. A pouch with a bag on each side and a cordless drill holder is what I recommend guys get. Especially if they want to borrow my cordless (lost too many from falling off ladders).

I would expect someone after a year to have at least the following (Sorted them based on the quality level I buy them at):
Linesmen Pliers
Strippers
Tin snips (I like the straights)
Channel Locks
Needle nose pliers
Reamer
Torpedo Level
Small and large standard and phillips screwdrivers
Tape measure (I always go cheap here, I loose too many)
Knife (I use a utility, lots of our guys like those folding utility)

If doing MCC work, MCC cutters
If doing residential a hammer



[This message has been edited by dmattox (edited 10-03-2005).]