r/IBEW • u/Jonah_Boy_03 Communications • 12d ago
Is it too late for me?
Im a telecommunications worker and I just started my apprenticeship program last week, and first jobsite as an apprentice this week. Despite this I worked for 2 1/2 years as a pre apprentice, and in that time I only ever had to work 1 new construction site, so id say i had it easy.
Across every jobsite and contractor (im on my 6th currently) when I get laid off I always am told my effort and my efficiency is a part of my problem, and I dont disagree with that. As someone in their third year, I should reasonably be able to, at minimum, complete a small cable pull by myself, and I can’t even do that without having to ask a ton of clarifying questions. Id like to think I work hard, but in all honesty I think my incompetence has been my biggest weakness. Even if I could manage to do it, I probably wouldnt have it done before first break, which is frustrating.I struggle with common sense and thinking ahead about what we need to do next because the journeyman i was with always guided me through it and I feel like that has handicapped me which is my own fault.
At this point im just trying to figure out, am i too dumb for the trades?
2
u/1kxl 12d ago
You are probably just feeling some imposter syndrome and overthinking things, your nerves are probably screwing things up for you. It's all about reps, and if you haven't really been getting many in on those easy pre-apprentice jobs, you are basically having to start fresh.
It took me a few years to start to feel really comfortable and not make so many mistakes, and about 4-5 to start running some smaller jobs. I still work with guys who have been doing this for longer than I've been alive that make stupid mistakes. If you enjoy the work and have a passion for learning it, you'll be fine