I Left Tech for Carpentry. It's Been Hard Finding an Apprenticeship.
Key Points:
- Jae Park, 32, left a tech job due to dissatisfaction with AI-driven workflows and pursued a carpentry apprenticeship despite challenges in finding sponsorship.
- After taking a furniture-building class years ago and accumulating college debt, Park initially prioritized financial stability over passion but later decided to follow their carpentry interest.
- The apprenticeship search involved visiting multiple construction sites and networking with foremen, highlighting difficulties such as lack of clear information and scheduling conflicts.
- Park values life experience gained from a corporate career, believing it provides important skills for navigating the male-dominated trades and setting personal boundaries.
- Despite ongoing hurdles, Park feels optimistic about joining the trades, appreciating the supportive union culture and worker-first environment.