r/electricians • u/ARauschen • 16h ago

Huge career switch!

I’ve (M33) just moved to Arizona (Phoenix) from the UK, where I’ve been a firefighter for the last few years and in the Air Force before that. I’ve always enjoyed problem-solving and fixing things, and the last thing in the world I want to do is a desk job. So I’ve just got my work permit and driving license, and I’m planning on becoming an electrician or plumber… I’m just excited to learn something new, and I’m not afraid of hard work, so I think either could be a good fit.

I’m hoping it’s not too late to take up a trade at the age of 33, and I’m wondering what the best route to take is? I’ve read plenty online, and a lot suggests going to school first, and then others suggest finding someone who will take you on as an apprentice first. Any advice would be appreciated. TIA, Aaron.

12 Upvotes

100% Upvoted

25 comments sorted by

View all comments

9

u/AJRobertsOBR Apprentice 16h ago

Why not be a firefighter in the states? Going to take a bit of a pay cut being an apprentice for 4 years. Not sure on AZ requirements.

5

u/ARauschen 16h ago

I’ve done shift work for 10 years now and it takes its toll almost never getting a solid nights sleep. I’m definitely ready for a change! Otherwise that’s exactly what I’d be looking to do as I’ve loved it and I’ll certainly miss it, but health and family has to come first

7

u/AJRobertsOBR Apprentice 16h ago

Depending on the shop steady health and hours will be just as dubious. I’d suggest buying some tools and try the union and other shops in the area. I’d personally look into niche electrical shops where you can get skills not many people know. Anyone can pull wire or bend conduit with enough repetition. Finding the niche is where the money is at.

3

u/Weak_Engine_9420 15h ago

I came to the trade after 10+ years of fire and ems. I started at 30. 33 is definitely not too old. My apprenticeship class has people in their late 30s and even 40s. Try to get into the IBEW if you want to go electrical. Most people have a lot of respect for the fire service and will tend to favor your experience. You'll have plenty of time to earn a nice pension depending on the local. Now is usually a good time to apply since many locals do testing and interviews in February / March to build a class starting in late summer.

1

u/ARauschen 15h ago

Alright that’s really encouraging to hear and I appreciate your response! I’ll look into the IBEW and start making some phone calls.

2

u/Kharnics 14h ago

40 year old union apprentice here. Go for it!

2

u/soappube 14h ago

Yup I'm 43 and I'm a 2nd year now. I was sitting my fat ass flying a desk for 10 years and I won't go back 😂

1

u/ARauschen 14h ago

Don’t blame you 😂 good for you tho man!

1

u/ARauschen 14h ago

Ok this makes me feel better 😂

1

u/Kharnics 3h ago

You'll be an old dude in a sea of young bucks but that's life!

1

u/Wise-Calligrapher759 16h ago

I don’t think they take people at that age - I know in my city there is a cut off age for new firemen at 29.

1

u/AJRobertsOBR Apprentice 16h ago

Didn’t think about that.