General Question Regarding Jobs

[KS.JAH.1776]

Some basic info about me. March 2016 I will have completed an AAS in welding technology, certified up to half inch plate 3g SMAW and GMAW, with about 80 hours of familiarization with GTAW. I will also be graduating with a class A CDL. I also have basic machining skills, vertical/horizontal mill. NO CNC I am a 27 year old US Army vet, Bradley Mechanic; and have worked various construction jobs in the past. Highly adaptable and intelligent. I am wondering what types of jobs are out there that I should pursue. Hopefully something that I can fully utilize my skill set and not be doing the same thing all day, every day. Anyone out there that can help? Any info will be greatly appreciated.

[ryanjones2150]

General Question Regarding Jobs

Fireman.

[elvis]

Firefighter is a good call. It takes a smart and physically capable person to make it through. I'm in the middle of a department academy myself. Always learning and trying new things. It is awesome.

[kize]

"Fireman" was an interesting match response. As a 15 year career fireman- I can tell you this. Do a lot of research before you commit to the fire service- it is highly competitive. It will require additional schooling and a strong medical background over and above what you have now. It is physically demanding/ mentally stressing- it will mess with your head- permanently. A lot of depts will allow civilians to do "ride alongs"- a way to get your ears wet ( try before you commit type thing"). Its not for everyone- has a high washout rate. A person will know right away if its for them or not . I wish you luck on finding something you love to do.

[H2o]

I am sorry, but these are kind of weird responses. He has training in something specific, and you are telling him to get more training in something completely unrelated? or maybe I am missing something.

I would say look at construction industry. You can be inspector, if you don't want to get dirty, but like being in the field. Or if you want to be in field working, do welding and fabrication. I thought I read that there was a good demand for welders out there.

Could also work as mechanic, specializing in welding and repairs. mechanics can make good money. They get paid by the job so if they are smart, and can do it fast, they they pocket the difference.

I would work in fields I described above. If after 5 or more years, you decide it was not for you, go back to school and look at engineering or some other degree that compliments what you studied in past. Universities love diversified students who have real world experience. Just save up during those years so you don't have to get loan at outrageous interest rates.

[ryanjones2150]

General Question Regarding Jobs

Well, he asked about something to fully utilize his skill set, which really doesn't exist. But being a veteran with a broad range of blue collar skills and experience, sounds like the kind of background suitable for the fire service.

Many times, veterans do well in that environment. Plus most places I've seen give veterans extra points in the written test.

Many firemen have side businesses, so if there is another discipline you want to dabble in, go for it.

My guess is there will be lots of folks chiming in with suggestions about moving into their chosen profession, which is expected. Thus my suggestion.

Two things that I can guarantee you about choosing the fire service...it won't be easy and you'll thank me for the rest of your life for the suggestion.

[H80N]

While not a permanent career choice utilizing your full skillset..... there is real shortage of CDL drivers to serve the marcellus shale Pennsylvania gas boom...
my understanding is that the pay is excellent.... this development may only last another 3-4 more years.... but it might provide an opportunity for a young man to build a nest egg...

http://www.indeed.com/q-Marcellus-Shale-l-Pennsylvania-jobs.html

'

[DATEC]

[Qam in the=H80N;333464]While not a permant career choice utilizing your full skillset..... there is real shortage of CDL drivers to serve the marcellus shale Pennsylvania gas boom...
my understanding is that the pay is excellent.... this development may only last another 3-4 more years.... but it might provide an opportunity for a young man to build a nest egg...

http://www.indeed.com/q-Marcellus-Shale-l-Pennsylvania-jobs.html

'[/QUOTE]

I am in the heart of that in western Pa and can tell you it has came to a slamming stop. One steel mill invested over a Billion dollars in ramping up for it and now is layed eveyone off except 1/2 of 1 shift another pump plant just announced it is closing due to the gas drilling bust. Anything you hear about the gas boom up hear is busted.

I would suggest that if the Army isn't for you to look into crossing over to the Air Force stay in and get a pension.
I would suggest if the Army isn't for you i

[H80N]

Still Drilling Here...!!!

I am in the heart of that in western Pa and can tell you it has came to a slamming stop. One steel mill invested over a Billion dollars in ramping up for it and now is layed eveyone off except 1/2 of 1 shift another pump plant just announced it is closing due to the gas drilling bust. Anything you hear about the gas boom up hear is busted.

That's funny... we are in Suquehanna county in far eastern Pa... and the boom is still on full blast.... they are begging for CDL drivers for the water trucks...
We have some neighbors that are making $2500 a week driving in support of the gas fracking & drilling....

[DATEC]

http://www.wfmj.com/story/29672318/vallourec-expects-industry-downturn-to-continue

I'm in Mercer Co. on the Ohio line just a stones throw from Youngstown and everything has been slammed shut as far as any drilling.

http://businessjournaldaily.com/parker-to-close-gear-pump-plant-idling-137/

I also have 2 cousins that were layed off working the drilling rigs.

At least in my area it is a bust.

[CrystalRose]

Check for the automotive jobs as a mechanic. I would recommend you to convention collective automobile pdf for more of the updates in amendments.

[Dobermann]

Does the school you attended not offer some sort of job placement assistance? I thought that most industrial trade schools, whether offered by union organizations or the community college schools provide some sort of assistance or a "foot in the door" for their graduates.

[Sberry]

If you are willing to move or commute then Ironworker.

[des537]

Go to the nearest Pipefitters Union hall and inquire about the VIP,'Veterans In Piping' program, if you get in you'll get great training, become a cerified Pipe welder with great pay and benefits ! It won't cost you a dime to check it out and i know that there really looking for Vets right now ! Good luck !

[old jupiter]

Looks like a natural for plant maintenance. Or heavy equipment repair.