Probably the wrong thread, but I'll vent a bit. My Local Union (Brooklyn Ironwokers, Local 361) is giving an apprentice examination soon. So they sent out copies of the proceedure to follow to get an application to take the exam. There's three parts, written, physical fitness, and if you pass those two, they give you a drug test. You have to be eighteen and have a HS diploma or GED. I asked if I could talk to some graduating students in surrounding high schools and the principals/"guidance" councilors either didn't get back to me or told me right out they wouldn't let me speak to the young men about it. All these people know is academics. They think anything to do with using your hands for work is undignified. But the worst part is they won't even allow the young men to see the flier. Everything is about college with these people.
I more or less get the same response from people who have sons or relatives of their own under or unemployed. They'd rather have their son or relative it seems just live at home than give him a shot at something. This is unbelievable. Not even the the money means anything, $30 per hr. + benefits (apprentice money). Is that bad money for a young guy getting out of HS? I only ask because of the way the people react. You'd think I was handing them a piece of steaming excrement the way people react when I show them the flier. Holy Moly.
Tom Iron...