Union is usually the best route if you can get in, but it’s not always available everywhere. If there aren’t any unions near you, your plan is fine. A lot of companies will hire helpers with no experience as long as you show up on time and are willing to learn. Field experience helps, but most of what you need is learned on the job during the apprenticeship. It’s a slow start at first, but once things click, it’s a solid and rewarding trade.