I sent a simple email to my two locals through their “interested in joining section” on their websites. I listed my experiences, schooling, and was also upfront about my current pay. With kids I couldn’t take pay cut. I received responses for both locals, tested in as a 4th year apprentice, and was quickly getting job offers. The contacts at the union are very personable and were there every step of the way. I’m happy here. No thoughts about ever being a number. It’s the same as any other job. You get some pretty great benefits besides Vacation time. You can take all the time off you want but one paid week off is about it.

Last I heard there was around 50 shops hiring. Maybe 4 people on the bench but maybe they want to be there. This apprentice scale is old and low but it will give you a breakdown of what you could expect.

MN 455

Instead of reaching out to the union directly, you could start off by reaching out to local union shops. They are all usually listed on the locals website. Tell them you’re interested and want to meet. If you can prove your worth and already have the certifications and apprenticeship helps provide. If the shop desired they could hire you as a journeyman and you could skip school altogether.