Big time newbie

[jack0789]

I am currently a carpenter's helper with a very limited mechanical background. I've taken shop classes in highschool, but they were pretty much a joke. I don't particularly like being a carpenter, and I have been looking into becoming a millwright apprentice for a few months now. I've bought and borrowed a few books, and I'm trying to teach myself, but with no hands on experience some things just don't make a lot of sense. So my first question is, how much and what should I know before I fill out the application? What should I focus on first, and should I try to get a job at a machine shop or something before fill out the apprentice application? This site has been a great help. Any information will be greatly appreciated. Thanks

[Chubby]

Hi Jack,

First, welcome to MillwrightMasters. I hope the resources you find here will help you out.

If joining a Millwright Local is your goal, I would definately brush up on your math skills. A lot of the mechanical things will come in time as you gain experience. The mechanical aptitude and math are the core skills of a Union Millwright. Once you join a Local and the Apprenticeship, attend your Apprenticeship school AND the Journeyman Upgrade courses available to all members of the UBC.

I hope this helps a bit. Good Luck!