Journeyman Card

Darrell

My almost 20 year old son has expressed a desire to learn the trade...he's been riding with me one day a week on his day off and is a quick study and good company. My question is for you men who have grown up as second generation father/son outfits. The scope of my work is narrow enough that he'd not get his Plumbing Journeyman Card working for me...all I do is service. How important is that card to you guys? I kinda feel like I'd be cheating him out of some valueable experience and marketable skills...which translate to choices later on. I don't need the help really, and I've always been proud of gutting it out and getting my card. How about the father part of the equation? Is he better served by working for a good contractor for awhile and then maybe joining my business if he chooses to do so? Union vs. Non-union apprenticeship? I don't know why I'm wrestling with this so much...seems kinda silly when I write it down...but, it's keeping me up nights.

I took him to Dave Sweets Taco Seminar today...when I quizzed him he sounded like he'd absorbed quite a bit...

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Mitch_6

I am third generation

plumber, I also have oil and hvac licenses although to not use the two later that much.

Its easier to get the licenses when young and harder when older both by available time and the requirements always get tougher.

Plus the ticket shows some pride and accomplishment.

Mitch S.

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mtfallsmikey

I grew up working in Dad's shop

He was a hardcore Irish b&&%*rd! Was rough on my brother and I, but when we were doing new custom homes in the late '60's and early '70's,sometimes he would put us with the electricians, plasterers,tile guys,roofers, brick masons just for the experince and knowledge. I currently hold 4 Master's licences in Va., plus Univ. Refrigerant,and backflow cert., but to go thru all the testing, etc. now at my age would be difficult. Take him on and teach him yourself, if you let someone else do it then you may not be satisfied with the results. The opportunities and scope of trade education is far better than when I was coming up! The whole trip has been worth it!

Jim_47

Employees

I too have two good boys. The older son has NO desire at all in the heating or plumbing field. The younger one is like a sponge. He enjoys working with me, he enjoys working for a local supply house, and he enjoys most of his time aboard the US Empire State TS in the engine room working on the steam boilers and associated ship facilities. Bottom line, if you want a good tech, "GROW YOUR OWN". But grow a lot, some enjoy other work more.

steven E.HEAT

forensic heating is the way!

Send him everywhere possible to learn heating design and troubleshooting.He will be in great demand.Control design and wirring is important.