UA Local 393 was not my first choice at the beginning.
That changed after the seminar.
Before applying, I had to sign up for a mandatory information session. I went in mostly because it was required. I knew the local had programs connected to plumbing, steamfitting, HVAC, and related work, but I did not know much beyond that.
I left taking it much more seriously.
The seminar helped me understand the programs in a way the website alone did not. It gave me a clearer picture of the work, the apprenticeship structure, and the different tracks.
That matters because sometimes you do not know what you are interested in until someone explains it plainly.
At first, HVAC sounded appealing to me. I liked the troubleshooting side and the electrical part of it. But I learned that the path I was looking at required candidates to find their own employment and compete for those spots.
At that point in my life, that was a lot.
I had two kids. I had already filled out more applications and resumes than I wanted to think about. The idea of going out and selling myself again did not feel like the right fit.
Steamfitting started to make more sense.
The welding side got my attention. I had done a little welding on project cars, nothing professional, but enough to know I liked the idea of learning it seriously.
That surprised me.
I went into the seminar thinking UA 393 was lower on my list.
I left thinking it might be one of the best fits.
That is why I think applicants should take these information sessions seriously.
Do not just show up because you have to.
Listen.
Ask questions.
Pay attention to the details between programs.
You may learn that the trade you thought you wanted is not the best fit.
You may also find a path you had not taken seriously enough.
That is what happened to me.