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I have a decade old associates, and was earning a bachelors in Russian, but I'm considering going to a trade school to learn something like machining, or welding. I want to ensure a marketable skill and future for myself in the face of not being able to work somewhere because of my refusal to attend marxist re-education university, wear a mask, get vaccinated etc. However that excludes alot of career options for me. I can't be alone in this, so what did you all do? Is it possible to work full time while doing this?

https://files.catbox.moe/jrydvi.webm I have a decade old associates, and was earning a bachelors in Russian, but I'm considering going to a trade school to learn something like machining, or welding. I want to ensure a marketable skill and future for myself in the face of not being able to work somewhere because of my refusal to attend marxist re-education university, wear a mask, get vaccinated etc. However that excludes alot of career options for me. I can't be alone in this, so what did you all do? Is it possible to work full time while doing this?

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[–] • 2 pts

Trades are always hiring: electrician, plumber, HVAC, etc. I went through the plumbers/pipefitters apprenticeship over a decade ago, never had to look for work since. Construction can be iffy but service work is always there and pretty consistent. A few guys who went through the apprenticeship turned out as welders, but unless you get a job for a utility company there’s a good chance you’ll be chasing power plant work and traveling if you are welding pipe. I can’t speak for the iron workers and having to travel to find work, but an iron worker buddy of mine works in town. He says he welds a lot of stairs. Sounds boring, welding pipe is way cooler.

My apprenticeship was 5 years, I worked full-time during the day and took classes twice a week in the evenings for 3 hours.

You can go the non-union route as well, but you will typically make less money on the non-union side. I have a love-hate relationship with unions: I love the extra money but hate the political bullshit and all the other baggage that comes with being in the union.

Best of luck to you, brother.

[–] • 1 pt

Correct.

Depending on your location, the trades are an extremely viable option. I supported a family on just my wage for the past 15 years, from day one apprentice through to today (although wife works now the kids are older). It’s good work, side work will always be available if you want it and the trades are screaming for guys.

On the union / non union debate it’s up to you. Personally, I was in a union at the start and it just didn’t work for me. The union was dogs shit and I felt like the union was more interested with what they could get out of my labor than what they could do for their members. I got out before the golden handcuffs of the union pension were thrown on me. Yes I make a little less per hour but I make more per annum because I don’t get laid off for 2 - 3 months every winter. Ultimately, It depends on your union and location.