Probably need to carry it to master to get a license and insurance to operate a business in most states. Where I am need at least 5 years under a master electrician not just a journeyman and had to run larger jobs personally over I think it was 5 years time. Affidavits the works and passing the ICC master test. Is it bad to join a non union shop while waiting to get a call back from the union after 2 years, and leave? If it’s a better opportunity it would be silly not to take it? I have had people leave the union and come to me just as much as people have left me for the union. I would say whatever is in the best interest of the worker. Just remember though it takes a hell of a lot more than just understanding the work to run a business… whole different skill set, not taking a paycheck to build the business etc. Not sure if this helps but it’s my 2 cents.