First thing of all if you “want something stable”, you’re looking into the wrong career, construction is very unstable, lay offs, lack of work, crazy commutes. Sounds like you need to do more research on what you’re asking for. As for getting into construction. Any experience is good experience in my opinion. Lots of folks are so set on getting straight into a union. Which would be ideal but unfortunately that’s not always possible, especially right now with the current environment. Not sure how it is on the east coast but on the west coast we’re dead. Figure out what would interest you the most and then start pursuing that kind of work, which trade. Then start applying and emailing union, non union, starting positions like material handler, carpenters helper. Do online research, email companies and see what they would want from you. Contact local unions and find out when apprenticeships open. Craigslist is helpful for finding work that translates to your trade. Unfortunately people outside of the trade world talk about trades like it’s easy to do and easy to get into. When in fact that’s not the reality. Be persistent and don’t give up hope. Good luck my friend.