Our local (UA 32) actually negotiated a $13.00/hr. raise about 10+ years ago when things were booming, then the recession hit and wage has pretty much frozen. Work was slow like everywhere else, but the boom has recently returned. Companies like Microsoft, Kenworth, Boeing, Amazon, Weyerhaueser and many other tech. companies are headquartered here and have been good for the local economy. Paul Allen (Co-founder of Microsoft) has bought up about half of Seattle and is rebuilding with high rise office and condominium buildings. All very good for the construction trades.

 

Here in mochigan all carpenters locals are empty everyone's working. Lovin it been that way past few years

 

Really nice to hear the economy making a come back. It's good for everybody. The bench is clear for plumbers and pipe fitters here too. Actually have a shortage. Any plumbers, fitters or HVAC mechanics looking to make a move should think about Seattle. It's a good living. Wish more young guys would consider the trades over the saturated computer tech. market.

 

Haha I know. I'm 22 and not many my age in trades. It's not good. In the next 5 years half of our local will be retired. We will be screwed. Recruiting hard right now. And I don't understand why more kids don't. Hard work but pays more then average 4 year degree in my area. Know couple kids that are finance directors and make less thrn me. But then again nobody wants to work hard anymore

 

It's the same story here in Ontario, Canada. Most younger people are following the advice they've heard all their life. "Stay in school. Get your degree. Get a good job. etc. etc." While that may be good advice, skilled trades are struggling to find qualified people to replace retiring workers.

I work in the tech department at Caesars casino. Which is kind of deceiving. Because there's much more physical work than you'd think.

 

Greg (Zippy 02)... That bathroom looks spectacular. That shower is definitely one of a kind.

 

My view at work.

 

Broke EX ROADWAY now YRC LOCAL 24. Probably drove by you several times over the years.

 

Do you paint pictures of clouds every day?

 

Great idea for a thread. Everyone should be proud of the jobs they do regardless of pay. We all can't be ceo's and a lot of us can't did ditches. Is good that humans are drawn to different jobs. This keeps the wheels turning. Sometimes it's not good to be king!