My uncle Sonny is a 798er....and my papa was a 798er for 50 years....now my uncle is in politics in the union ....if I could turn back time I'd of become a pipeline welder....instead I'm just in a shop running tig and mig....it pays but no off time lol
“Him” My opinion.... if you aren’t working, the union isn’t doing much for you. I get what unions did for working conditions in the 1900s... just saying, a man’s gotta work. If the union isn’t putting you to work, they can’t tell you you can’t work nonunion
Foghorn Leghorn this is sad 😞. But just imagine what the numbers would be if you and your friends were not helping to feed them . Thanks for this post , maybe more people will join in and help you all to provide food for the children
Hey Austin, I’m a welder just starting out ( my name is also Austin ) love your videos, they always put a smile on my face and I always learn a lot. I didn’t know you were off for that long, I had a feeling it was a few months since the shortage of pipeline vids. Hope everything works out and I’m praying god sends some work your way sir♥️🙏🏽 god bless
I would say that the way insurance is today stay with the union, but it wouldn't hurt to start a small repair business on the side. Remember the old saying dont put all your eggs in one basket. Good luck .
I did not know you were off that long. You guys seem to be doing ok, and like you said, the benefits are good and the resources are plentiful. I’ve had to jump off the union train a couple of times and there are definitely pros and cons. The only pro that is hard to resist, especially for the younger crowd, is unions usually offer in depth training.
I've been a ua member for almost 20 yrs..... there's good years and bad years that's the way it is. I respect your honesty and thought processing and I'm quite surprised the organizers at 798 didn't give you all the info far as traveling to building trades jobs. I'm a building trades welder and I've worked with a few 798 travelers. They were really good welders, money isn't quite as good as pipeline but you keep paying into you're pension and benefits. Hopefully you'll stay the course it'll payoff in the long run.
Great video. That's why I joined the Railroad. As a Carman 6011 , my position is listed 40% welding. However, the rest of the time is occupied by inspections, remove &replace parts, and hurry up and wait. The work is very steady and I've never missed a paycheck even while furloughed for six months which turnd into a six month vacation. The welding would be great if we manufactured parts for export, but all we do is consume here. Heck the industry would do well if the feds mandated an up grade on our own bridges, pipes and Railroad tracks .
Pssh since the great lay off of january 2016, i did not start working full time until early 2018. Throught the 2017 year it was just temp work that lasted one month and others a few weeks. See kids, this is why we save our money lol
Eddie Newby I watched the same video you did, he is not working. Perhaps you could share your outside secret information????? That’s 100cc of muscle saw! Waaay more saw than you can handle!
Yes I knew I miss the day in the life videos! Can’t wait till you post some more man. Hoping the best of luck for you man you made me get into the trade I can’t thank you enough. Totally changed my life for the better your the best Austin!
Been there before Austin my mind went crazy but I overcome it an patience paid off eventually but you gotta stay positive an go get that work man it will keep you regular
Never wanted to join the union, but I do find it interesting. I believe that I wanna work as much as I can as hard as I can while I’m young. As long as you’re smart with your money you can do really well, sit down with a reputable accountant on how to save for your future. Grind hard now so you can be home and don’t have to be a “old timer” on the pipeline because it is hard work and I don’t wanna be doing this when my back starts to hurt. Just my opinion, I’m a firm believer in work as much as you can so you can afford to take time off for your kids
DO NOT GIVE UP that UA book Also don't be afraid to work a building trades job as a fellow UA welder you can always find work I will be the first to tell you a refinery shutdown is not the right of way but it will put money and benefits in your pocket PM me I will get back with you and help you out
Yes I knew, the key is to handle the lean times money wise. It will turn round, and you'll be back into the swing sooner rather than later. Good luck brother 👊
Keep your head up brother. ------------------------------------------- I'm a union Sheet Metal Worker. I was non union for 10 years, 86 to 96. Did mostly residential and light commercial work while non union. Was a shop foreman and made 15 bucks an hour with no real benefits. Joined union in 96 and my pay stayed $15 for residential work but went up to $23 for commercial work. I tried to buy a book and get full commercial scale all the time and the hall didn't wanna do it. I'm glad they didn't. I had to learn a lot of stuff that non union just didn't know or do. But... the union made sure I had healthcare, two pensions, an annuity, unlimited training (osha, welding, layout, etc etc) and all of this was at no cost to me. Non union sure never gave that. And the union made sure contractors treated me properly, paid the correct amounts, paid all my healthcare and pension money.... It was night and day. It took me almost 5 years until I could top out at full scale. It was a rough road. The old timers made your life rough and kept you in line. Made sure you followed the rules. I'm glad they did. It kept our union strong. Joining the union was best thing I ever did. With the union , I can support my family and have a better life. Im now 50 years old with 23 years in the union. Almost all time (99%) in town building trades work. Ive been off of work and discouraged before. I have about 20 years pension credits built up. Recently we calculated where my pension will be when I retire. I won't make it at 55 and out. I will have to go to 65. And that's ok. If I quit working as a union sheet metal worker right now and sat at home till 65... my pension would have 20 credits. That would be a paycheck every month of $2700 for my national and local pension. Id also get another monthly check for about $1200 from social security. Id also get my 401k/annuity money of about $50k. So that is 20 years in union (option A) with about $3900 a month pension and $50k in annuity. Or I could keep working till bout 60 or 62 and get a monthly check of about $4700 for national and local pension, and another monthly check of about $1600 for social security and a $100k annuity/401k. With 30 years in the union (option B) I would collect about $6300 a month with a $100k in annuity. I am so glad I joined and stayed in the union Austin Ross.
Austin you are spot on. I have worked both Union and non Union and Union work is better quality work because of the highest standards that are enforced ; wages, and working conditions. Bottom line based on many years of experience
Hey man. I’m a welder fitter, but never did pipeline. I’ve done about everything else pipe wise over the last 18 years. My son welds now and we’ve done pretty well doing process pipe. No mud , no ditches. Yeah, there’s some cold places but we’re able to work straight through WHEN the work is there. It’s pretty much all the same crap, just different places and different welding styles ( all stainless). I’ve never been in a union and at 49 , there’s not much sense in it. Anyway, hang in man , the trades are always in flux. Prayers to all the hands out there, working or not. We all have to look out for each other.
Unions did their jobs long ago. Now they are good for the off chance you get fired over BS that you couldn't control. Other wise, I've found out if you show up to work, do your job and are a reasonable person. You can make just as much money and have great benefits as anyone else. I Personally wouldn't waste my time with a union if I've been off that long. Life is short, you can't meet some of your goals if you are out of work constantly thinking about what's going to happen. Make it happen by going out and doing what you need to do. Joining the union to be more "Professional" is like joining a gym then expecting to be seen as a body builder. Just doesn't always work out like that
The Machine unions are only good for the odd chance you get fired over bs? They’re not good for giving you the best retirement plan and insurance? Or the same top level pay for everyone? Or making contractors supply disposables? Or not letting contractors get away with murder as far as how they treat employees?
@@cadeploch9422 I've been in unions and non union. If you add union dues and higher insurance cost, I made more as non union. I should also tell you I am not a pipeliner. As far as being treated better or worse. I'd say if anything it's a wash. I've had shit boss's on either side. This has been my experience, I don't think My Experience is comparable to everyone else. Simply giving my life experiences with it all.
Iam very new to your TH-cam channel videos and NO I didnt know you where not working welding pipes for 10 MONTHS you look well Educated In welding are you working know and if so what work ate you doing know my name is Domenico Monteleone I live in Canada and you are showing me many new things thank you kindly for having your own TH-cam channel videos
I know Austin you haven't been working for "a year" ruefully but still your not working right bow but you are always busy making a fence,a door, this that that's good your not just wasting your time being productive keep up the good work man. 👌
union pipeline if you are not in the click and get name hired you will starve . Off for a year you are not in the upper end of the click . You will have to work in the building trades if you want to work strictly union .And that will most likely be without your rig . Pensions you better keep perfect books on your contributions in particular when you work out of other halls . Know their rules you must be pro active . if not ,not knowing the rules it can screw you. Ask about transferring your pension back to your home local and the rules for such. Be absolute certain about rules of being a member and working non union with your rig . In the end you have to do what is best for your family and how you want to live when you can't do this anymore or you may regret your past decisions
You can stay busy ALL year in building trades. There is a cut in money, but you stay paid up on your benefits and earn a union paycheck and continue to be vested. You can also get your cwi and do that while the union pipeline is slow. I will never go back to the non union side
I think both sides have good parts. My dad has been non Union his whole life. Did iron work then started pipelining. He has raised four kids an family with it. We all are just a big family.
Maybe hit up some of the dump truck owners near you, they always need repair welding on the bodies of the trucks. Farmers, too. I doubt 798 would object, it has nothing to do with pipe. I know a guy who used to have a rig like yours, he did alright fixing trucks, trailers, snowplows. Fabricating gates and things. Hope this helps you.
@@dougbrown7413 I'm not sure I understand what you're saying. I don't know about Austin's union, but in mine they only object to you working at the trade non union. I can't run heavy equipment non-union, but selling cars, driving Uber, singing in a band, being a male model, (lol) are all permissible.
Have you thoughts about getting your CWI, and switching over to inspection? I inspected with several inspectors that are 798, and they will switch between both depending on which has the work.
Ya I’ve considered it but I just really love welding, I don’t think I could stand to inspect any time soon. Plus I feel like I have so much more to learn with welding.
Being UA and working building trades during slow period means keeping your benefits rolling, might be less money but you can bet the work is somewhere. Pipeline work is scare but industrial and commercial work is booming right now. Might get on the UA welders page on Facebook that’s the underground job soliciting sight. Bypassing the halls seems to be faster.
I’m laid off right now too hope you get back to it soon bud. Next time you’re laid off head on over to chicago local 597. Pays not as good as Pipeline but it’s probably as close as you’ll get on the building trades side. Stay positive brother🤙🏾
I have several friends. That work oilfield and it’s the same with them. Im an automotive technician. A.S.E cert. low pay but always working lol. It’s give and take. Hope you find work soon
How does someone get into rig welding as non union? I've been welding in the shipyard for about 4-5 years but the yard I was at is on a hold for hiring contractors (where the money is) and I want to get into pipeline work but I want to kind of "try it before I buy it" on the lifestyle. Thanks
Welder from up in Michigan I spoke to late last year said he had met you and you were able to stay pretty hooked up. Can’t believe you been off that long. But the West Virginia permit situation has screwed up everyone
You’re at the Hall! Yeah buddy, do yourself a favor and start learning uphill NOW! I’m a 798 Welder, broke out last Spring. Haven’t pipelined since then. Spent 2 months in a welding booth last summer at nearest pipefitters local practicing heli-arc and combo welding, been working ever since!
Best discuss this with the local. I worked Boilermakers field construction while I was in the NG and upon returning to the job from 2 weeks of summer camp I got laid off the next day & the same next year @ another job . The local just found me another job off the top of the out of work list.
Hey Austin you very well could’ve worked on the building trades side there has been work all over! Less money than you’re used to making but it’s better than unemployment and you’re still paying into your pension and health&welfare! Well the contractor is :) lot of benefits to being in the UA! I’m a BTJ pipefitter/welder I enjoy watching your videos and the knowledge you have to share even though I dont have any desire to do pipe-Line . Hope you’re staying busy!
As a 37 year pipefitter, our total wage is 63.22/hr, my pay is 43.59/hr. So it costs me 20.00/hr to be a union member, plus 4.5% union dues, for 2.00/hr. total cost for me just to hold a union card is 22.00/hr!!! With that said in 37 years I have missed a total of 8 months of work, with 6 months of that recovering from surgery. So you really have to weigh your options when it comes to being a union worker. Now working out of the Building Trades instead of pipeline gives you way more options, you can work as a HVAC serviceman, fitter, welder, plumber (if you have license), steamfitter, etc. I really think limiting yourself to pipeline work really limits your options.
Louisiana's plant work should be picking back up soon. Shop work will be right behind it. Come on down here. Union, and non-union work side by side down here.
Get you a book with the Boilermakers or Pipefitters and work building trades. You will take a pay cut, but $31-$33/hr isn’t too bad to keep paying your bills. (Southern Region payscale). Also, ACP should be getting some permits approved this spring (hopefully) and Alaska pipeline may be in the near future.
After my time in the active army reserve was up I joined 798 as a helper [supposed to have been an apprentice]. As a member of that union you would have lost your built up pension if you didn't work for 3 yrs. I lost my built up pension twice. And you needed to have worked 1000 hrs in one year to make your medical coverage kick in. I actually had worked 997 hrs in one yr and was denied medical coverage, I mentioned this to a few members I knew at that time and they said they knew guys who got the insurance being shy 50 or more hrs. I didn't much hope or a future so I worked a few more small jobs with them and went to welding schools on my own expense to learn the trade.
i see the real benefits of 798 as building the network as you say, but like everything it follows economy. i saw a lot of guys scabbing during the 90's but as soon as the 98 called they rolled up and were gone. that network however (i was a single hand scab working with 798 guys) and the foreman asked me several times to go to work just because he liked me and wanted me on his base crew. i didnt because of family but i still regret it.
I'm living on my Union pension for over 6 years. there are lay offs for sure but in the long run Union jobs were best. The best pay and safe, in my case.
Isn't 798 a UA Union? Building trades if you want to stay in the Union. We just got out of a real bad recession from 2008-2016. Not saying Union is a bad thing but I wouldn't wait to much longer before I hit the building trades if I was you. Big casino in Durant going up.
If I was you I would get on the list for building trades which most of them don't want pipeline welders but I would give it a few months on both out of work lists and if nothing came up I would cut my losses and work non union. This year will not be any better because election year and if any of those democrat candidates get presidency you need to already be working by then.
Im a 798 weldor from Alabama, I didn't realize that you was off for so long, I've been off pipeline since September I only work 12 weeks last year pipeline work, but I have stayed busy working building trades. If I could help you in any way please let me know
thought I would mention there is a job starting up around Livingston,Texas I have been seeing a lot of welding rigs in town lately...................................................JS*
Don’t understand, Jobs dispatched in 798 just in February is like 65. If there are that many in one month seems like there is work. What am I missing? Well may have answered myself. 798 has maybe 7000 members, don’t know the mix (welders, helpers, foremen etc) just seems like as many pipelines going now, work should be plentiful.
Dang time fly’s didn’t realize it was that long but knew you were off and back here in Oklahoma hopefully we can get together sometime would love to finally meet you!
Jus curious if that Small price is job security to be laid off for a year If you work something no union while in a local doesnt that make you a scab then you go against union bylaws and risk being booted
I don't know about his union, but for mine I only have to pay 10 dollars a month when I am not working. That's nothing, I pay more than that for coffee in a week.
You have a great attitude and a good perspective.... Wish you all the best. I likwhat you said about being professional... Thats getting harder and harder to find these days... Can you get unemployment???
I’m not trying to be negative but I’ve always been a non-union guy (28yrs if working and still rolling). I have a lot of buddies who are union and they are never working. I just don’t understand where the benefit is in that scenario
I remember in the early 80's there wasn't any pipeline or fabrication work anywhere ,alot of hand lost their rigs , homes everything it all depends on the oil and gas industry you have to have a favorable economy to persuade the oil and gas company to spend there money
Austin keep positive attitudes, stay away from gloom and doomed if at all possible.. Do what is best for you and yours, survive the way you know how...after Biden should get better...
Non union or union work work is work Rockford has job starting or already started south of Houston an theres 150 miles going from shereveprot to lake Charles that has or is starting if I’m not wrong
I have pipeliner for 6 1/2 years and these videos are very genuine no one makes videos for pipeliners like this , it gives good awareness and insight
My uncle Sonny is a 798er....and my papa was a 798er for 50 years....now my uncle is in politics in the union ....if I could turn back time I'd of become a pipeline welder....instead I'm just in a shop running tig and mig....it pays but no off time lol
God will provide son , just keep praying and praising him . He will show up right on time
You're an idiot
“Him”
My opinion.... if you aren’t working, the union isn’t doing much for you. I get what unions did for working conditions in the 1900s... just saying, a man’s gotta work. If the union isn’t putting you to work, they can’t tell you you can’t work nonunion
Foghorn Leghorn this is sad 😞. But just imagine what the numbers would be if you and your friends were not helping to feed them . Thanks for this post , maybe more people will join in and help you all to provide food for the children
Foghorn Leghorn lol dude there is no arguing on a god that is based on no logic I wouldn’t even waste my time
Amen praise God. Bless him Lord.
Hey Austin, I’m a welder just starting out ( my name is also Austin ) love your videos, they always put a smile on my face and I always learn a lot. I didn’t know you were off for that long, I had a feeling it was a few months since the shortage of pipeline vids. Hope everything works out and I’m praying god sends some work your way sir♥️🙏🏽 god bless
Sounds like gambling. The big payday will come, but you’ll starve waiting for the new job.
I would say that the way insurance is today stay with the union, but it wouldn't hurt to start a small repair business on the side. Remember the old saying dont put all your eggs in one basket. Good luck .
I did not know you were off that long. You guys seem to be doing ok, and like you said, the benefits are good and the resources are plentiful. I’ve had to jump off the union train a couple of times and there are definitely pros and cons. The only pro that is hard to resist, especially for the younger crowd, is unions usually offer in depth training.
I've been a ua member for almost 20 yrs..... there's good years and bad years that's the way it is. I respect your honesty and thought processing and I'm quite surprised the organizers at 798 didn't give you all the info far as traveling to building trades jobs. I'm a building trades welder and I've worked with a few 798 travelers. They were really good welders, money isn't quite as good as pipeline but you keep paying into you're pension and benefits. Hopefully you'll stay the course it'll payoff in the long run.
Great video. That's why I joined the Railroad. As a Carman 6011 , my position is listed 40% welding. However, the rest of the time is occupied by inspections, remove &replace parts, and hurry up and wait. The work is very steady and I've never missed a paycheck even while furloughed for six months which turnd into a six month vacation. The welding would be great if we manufactured parts for export, but all we do is consume here. Heck the industry would do well if the feds mandated an up grade on our own bridges, pipes and Railroad tracks .
Pssh since the great lay off of january 2016, i did not start working full time until early 2018. Throught the 2017 year it was just temp work that lasted one month and others a few weeks. See kids, this is why we save our money lol
Hey buddy. I’ve been out of work for 17 months I hear you hang in there. You’re a good man 798 needs people like you. God bless
Eddie Newby
I don’t think the 798 does need him, that’s why he is not working.. 🤦♀️
B Stevermer. you don’t know what your talking about. You better stick with your Gay chainsaws
Eddie Newby
I watched the same video you did, he is not working. Perhaps you could share your outside secret information?????
That’s 100cc of muscle saw! Waaay more saw than you can handle!
Yes I knew I miss the day in the life videos! Can’t wait till you post some more man. Hoping the best of luck for you man you made me get into the trade I can’t thank you enough. Totally changed my life for the better your the best Austin!
Austin, thanks for sharing your experiences. Keep up the great work! Staying positive will eventually payoff.
Self-starters can do better outside a union. Union is for card punchers. Austin, to me you seem like a self-starter. You could do better on your own.
Been there before Austin my mind went crazy but I overcome it an patience paid off eventually but you gotta stay positive an go get that work man it will keep you regular
Never wanted to join the union, but I do find it interesting. I believe that I wanna work as much as I can as hard as I can while I’m young. As long as you’re smart with your money you can do really well, sit down with a reputable accountant on how to save for your future. Grind hard now so you can be home and don’t have to be a “old timer” on the pipeline because it is hard work and I don’t wanna be doing this when my back starts to hurt. Just my opinion, I’m a firm believer in work as much as you can so you can afford to take time off for your kids
DO NOT GIVE UP that UA book
Also don't be afraid to work a building trades job as a fellow UA welder you can always find work I will be the first to tell you a refinery shutdown is not the right of way but it will put money and benefits in your pocket
PM me I will get back with you and help you out
I’m a building trades fitter out of local 562 and we are usually always busy, it’s slow right now but they always need welders for the powerhouses.
I'm a 798 Weldor with quite a few building trades certs, and I'm looking for work
I've worked outta 562 many years ago.
Nic brother I’m out of 157
Yes I knew, the key is to handle the lean times money wise. It will turn round, and you'll be back into the swing sooner rather than later. Good luck brother 👊
Thank you Austin for your sincere and heartfelt advice. I pray you get some work soon. God bless you and yours.
I'm a retired UA member. I was off for 9 1/2 months once in 1980-81. Never thought about going non-union.
Austin, I appreciate you sharing your experience! I hope you and Kayla enjoyed your Valentine's Day!
At 14:06 to 14:18 we realize that Dodge has excellent alignment “look ma no hands”
Keep your head up brother.
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I'm a union Sheet Metal Worker. I was non union for 10 years, 86 to 96. Did mostly residential and light commercial work while non union. Was a shop foreman and made 15 bucks an hour with no real benefits. Joined union in 96 and my pay stayed $15 for residential work but went up to $23 for commercial work. I tried to buy a book and get full commercial scale all the time and the hall didn't wanna do it. I'm glad they didn't. I had to learn a lot of stuff that non union just didn't know or do. But... the union made sure I had healthcare, two pensions, an annuity, unlimited training (osha, welding, layout, etc etc) and all of this was at no cost to me. Non union sure never gave that. And the union made sure contractors treated me properly, paid the correct amounts, paid all my healthcare and pension money.... It was night and day. It took me almost 5 years until I could top out at full scale. It was a rough road. The old timers made your life rough and kept you in line. Made sure you followed the rules. I'm glad they did. It kept our union strong. Joining the union was best thing I ever did. With the union , I can support my family and have a better life. Im now 50 years old with 23 years in the union. Almost all time (99%) in town building trades work. Ive been off of work and discouraged before. I have about 20 years pension credits built up. Recently we calculated where my pension will be when I retire. I won't make it at 55 and out. I will have to go to 65. And that's ok. If I quit working as a union sheet metal worker right now and sat at home till 65... my pension would have 20 credits. That would be a paycheck every month of $2700 for my national and local pension. Id also get another monthly check for about $1200 from social security. Id also get my 401k/annuity money of about $50k. So that is 20 years in union (option A) with about $3900 a month pension and $50k in annuity. Or I could keep working till bout 60 or 62 and get a monthly check of about $4700 for national and local pension, and another monthly check of about $1600 for social security and a $100k annuity/401k. With 30 years in the union (option B) I would collect about $6300 a month with a $100k in annuity. I am so glad I joined and stayed in the union Austin Ross.
City work always happening, call plumbing / mechanical companies. No code/x-ray work and they're always my go-to when the oilfield side is slow
Yep been that long for me to! My numbers dropping quick tho. Hope to see you out there this year.👍
Austin you are spot on. I have worked both Union and non Union and Union work is better quality work because of the highest standards that are enforced ; wages, and working conditions. Bottom line based on many years of experience
Love your perspective on this. I wish you and your family the very best in 2020.
Hey man. I’m a welder fitter, but never did pipeline. I’ve done about everything else pipe wise over the last 18 years. My son welds now and we’ve done pretty well doing process pipe. No mud , no ditches. Yeah, there’s some cold places but we’re able to work straight through WHEN the work is there. It’s pretty much all the same crap, just different places and different welding styles ( all stainless). I’ve never been in a union and at 49 , there’s not much sense in it. Anyway, hang in man , the trades are always in flux. Prayers to all the hands out there, working or not. We all have to look out for each other.
Process is where it's at with all the automation and stuff going on ^^
Yes. Have been following you guys for a while now!
Yeah I knew right along. I'm non union and it's slow up my way too, but we have some big jobs coming in the spring.
I’m a union Pipefitter. I work with a lot of pipe liners who come work building trades when work gets slow for them
zach elias what local are you with?
Ktmboy 321 local 42 Norwalk ohio
Yes I knew, seemed like been a while since been on pipe
Unions did their jobs long ago. Now they are good for the off chance you get fired over BS that you couldn't control. Other wise, I've found out if you show up to work, do your job and are a reasonable person. You can make just as much money and have great benefits as anyone else. I Personally wouldn't waste my time with a union if I've been off that long. Life is short, you can't meet some of your goals if you are out of work constantly thinking about what's going to happen. Make it happen by going out and doing what you need to do.
Joining the union to be more "Professional" is like joining a gym then expecting to be seen as a body builder. Just doesn't always work out like that
You’re so oblivious
@@cadeploch9422 Care to explain how? or nah?
The Machine unions are only good for the odd chance you get fired over bs? They’re not good for giving you the best retirement plan and insurance? Or the same top level pay for everyone? Or making contractors supply disposables? Or not letting contractors get away with murder as far as how they treat employees?
@@cadeploch9422 I've been in unions and non union. If you add union dues and higher insurance cost, I made more as non union. I should also tell you I am not a pipeliner. As far as being treated better or worse. I'd say if anything it's a wash. I've had shit boss's on either side. This has been my experience, I don't think My Experience is comparable to everyone else. Simply giving my life experiences with it all.
Iam very new to your TH-cam channel videos and NO I didnt know you where not working welding pipes for 10 MONTHS you look well Educated In welding are you working know and if so what work ate you doing know my name is Domenico Monteleone I live in Canada and you are showing me many new things thank you kindly for having your own TH-cam channel videos
I know Austin you haven't been working for "a year" ruefully but still your not working right bow but you are always busy making a fence,a door, this that that's good your not just wasting your time being productive keep up the good work man. 👌
No. I just started watching for a week or two. Trying to catch up. Love the videos.
union pipeline if you are not in the click and get name hired you will starve . Off for a year you are not in the upper end of the click . You will have to work in the building trades if you want to work strictly union .And that will most likely be without your rig . Pensions you better keep perfect books on your contributions in particular when you work out of other halls . Know their rules you must be pro active . if not ,not knowing the rules it can screw you. Ask about transferring your pension back to your home local and the rules for such. Be absolute certain about rules of being a member and working non union with your rig . In the end you have to do what is best for your family and how you want to live when you can't do this anymore or you may regret your past decisions
You can stay busy ALL year in building trades. There is a cut in money, but you stay paid up on your benefits and earn a union paycheck and continue to be vested. You can also get your cwi and do that while the union pipeline is slow. I will never go back to the non union side
Amen, brother! Union Ironworker hear.
I think both sides have good parts. My dad has been non Union his whole life. Did iron work then started pipelining. He has raised four kids an family with it. We all are just a big family.
I would but then again to each their own. Just hope you’re doing good mr. Ross. But yes I know
Yes i did know i didn't think it was that long hope you get back to pipeline work soon
Maybe hit up some of the dump truck owners near you, they always need repair welding on the bodies of the trucks. Farmers, too. I doubt 798 would object, it has nothing to do with pipe. I know a guy who used to have a rig like yours, he did alright fixing trucks, trailers, snowplows. Fabricating gates and things. Hope this helps you.
wailnshred I’m sure it’s not from lack of work... it’s lack of union work. If you’re Union, it’s frowned upon to worn non union.
@@dougbrown7413 I'm not sure I understand what you're saying. I don't know about Austin's union, but in mine they only object to you working at the trade non union. I can't run heavy equipment non-union, but selling cars, driving Uber, singing in a band, being a male model, (lol) are all permissible.
Proud UA Plumbers and Pipefitters member. Local 597 would love you
My first time watching your channel and I am now subscribed, loved the video
Have you thoughts about getting your CWI, and switching over to inspection? I inspected with several inspectors that are 798, and they will switch between both depending on which has the work.
Ya I’ve considered it but I just really love welding, I don’t think I could stand to inspect any time soon. Plus I feel like I have so much more to learn with welding.
@@arosswelding inspecting might help your welding. I know you are great at it by there is always room for improvement
@@arosswelding ,
Can you do an update video?
This CV thing is really hurting the entire economy. 😞
I am from Local 488 brother. Come up to Alberta, we got a whole bunch of spreads opening up
I was thinking you had been off about 5 months.. 10 months is a long time.
I didn't know. But I appreciate the honesty.
Being UA and working building trades during slow period means keeping your benefits rolling, might be less money but you can bet the work is somewhere. Pipeline work is scare but industrial and commercial work is booming right now. Might get on the UA welders page on Facebook that’s the underground job soliciting sight. Bypassing the halls seems to be faster.
Probably why we don’t have shit for work lol. Y’all get laid off and take are jobs 😂 wish we could go out for you guys when we are slow
@@jeepwk6.5L 🎯🎯🎯
Didn’t know you were off pipeline welding for so long. Great videos!
I’m laid off right now too hope you get back to it soon bud. Next time you’re laid off head on over to chicago local 597. Pays not as good as Pipeline but it’s probably as close as you’ll get on the building trades side. Stay positive brother🤙🏾
Good video as always Keep your chin Up you will find work
Can you please make a video on how much money a single person needs to live the pipeline life minum
I have several friends. That work oilfield and it’s the same with them. Im an automotive technician. A.S.E cert. low pay but always working lol. It’s give and take. Hope you find work soon
How does someone get into rig welding as non union? I've been welding in the shipyard for about 4-5 years but the yard I was at is on a hold for hiring contractors (where the money is) and I want to get into pipeline work but I want to kind of "try it before I buy it" on the lifestyle. Thanks
Welder from up in Michigan I spoke to late last year said he had met you and you were able to stay pretty hooked up. Can’t believe you been off that long. But the West Virginia permit situation has screwed up everyone
You’re at the Hall! Yeah buddy, do yourself a favor and start learning uphill NOW! I’m a 798 Welder, broke out last Spring. Haven’t pipelined since then. Spent 2 months in a welding booth last summer at nearest pipefitters local practicing heli-arc and combo welding, been working ever since!
Still working!!!
That’s where all are works going, 798 dries up and y’all come get are jobs 😂
Your insight on life in general is great really enjoy the videos
I didnt know. I would have been losing my mind after 2 weeks having to hear IT from my wife.
Fermin G why did you marry her?
@@alecj9227 obviously cause I love her
What do you think about being in the national guard or reserves and working the pipeline?
Best discuss this with the local. I worked Boilermakers field construction while I was in the NG and upon returning to the job from 2 weeks of summer camp I got laid off the next day & the same next year @ another job . The local just found me another job off the top of the out of work list.
No. I didn't know you were off that long.. Wow .. that's awhile without any work! Good luck in the future getting work.
What are you doing to make ends meet while you’re off?
Yes, I like your positive attitude, hang in there
Hey Austin you very well could’ve worked on the building trades side there has been work all over! Less money than you’re used to making but it’s better than unemployment and you’re still paying into your pension and health&welfare! Well the contractor is :) lot of benefits to being in the UA! I’m a BTJ pipefitter/welder I enjoy watching your videos and the knowledge you have to share even though I dont have any desire to do pipe-Line . Hope you’re staying busy!
As a 37 year pipefitter, our total wage is 63.22/hr, my pay is 43.59/hr. So it costs me 20.00/hr to be a union member, plus 4.5% union dues, for 2.00/hr. total cost for me just to hold a union card is 22.00/hr!!! With that said in 37 years I have missed a total of 8 months of work, with 6 months of that recovering from surgery. So you really have to weigh your options when it comes to being a union worker. Now working out of the Building Trades instead of pipeline gives you way more options, you can work as a HVAC serviceman, fitter, welder, plumber (if you have license), steamfitter, etc. I really think limiting yourself to pipeline work really limits your options.
Louisiana's plant work should be picking back up soon. Shop work will be right behind it. Come on down here. Union, and non-union work side by side down here.
I was a union sprinkler fitter got laid off in 2016 went non union after that and never looked back plenty of work
No I did not know!! That’s crazy tho hope you get back to it soon
Get you a book with the Boilermakers or Pipefitters and work building trades. You will take a pay cut, but $31-$33/hr isn’t too bad to keep paying your bills. (Southern Region payscale).
Also, ACP should be getting some permits approved this spring (hopefully) and Alaska pipeline may be in the near future.
Liebherr L those are helper wages in WA
After my time in the active army reserve was up I joined 798 as a helper [supposed to have been an apprentice].
As a member of that union you would have lost your built up pension if you didn't work for 3 yrs.
I lost my built up pension twice.
And you needed to have worked 1000 hrs in one year to make your medical coverage kick in.
I actually had worked 997 hrs in one yr and was denied medical coverage, I mentioned this to a few members I knew at that time and they said they knew guys who got the insurance being shy 50 or more hrs.
I didn't much hope or a future so I worked a few more small jobs with them and went to welding schools on my own expense to learn the trade.
Yes I know you have a lot of time on your hands. Im trying to get on the pipeline need to get back to work an on the road.
i see the real benefits of 798 as building the network as you say, but like everything it follows economy. i saw a lot of guys scabbing during the 90's but as soon as the 98 called they rolled up and were gone. that network however (i was a single hand scab working with 798 guys) and the foreman asked me several times to go to work just because he liked me and wanted me on his base crew. i didnt because of family but i still regret it.
Yes been waiting for you to get on a new job or what you are going to do to stay on your feet
I'm living on my Union pension for over 6 years. there are lay offs for sure but in the long run Union jobs were best. The best pay and safe, in my case.
I hear the lines fixn to open back up here in WV!
I think there was some paper work holding jobs up?!?
I was in Jane Lew W.V. during the winter of 2019 until March! I’ve been off ever since too.
Working for precision?
No I was with Private contractor.
Isn't 798 a UA Union? Building trades if you want to stay in the Union. We just got out of a real bad recession from 2008-2016. Not saying Union is a bad thing but I wouldn't wait to much longer before I hit the building trades if I was you. Big casino in Durant going up.
The longer you are off work the less marketable you will be for the HR departments even if you work for yourself. I have had that problem.
If I was you I would get on the list for building trades which most of them don't want pipeline welders but I would give it a few months on both out of work lists and if nothing came up I would cut my losses and work non union. This year will not be any better because election year and if any of those democrat candidates get presidency you need to already be working by then.
Im a 798 weldor from Alabama, I didn't realize that you was off for so long, I've been off pipeline since September I only work 12 weeks last year pipeline work, but I have stayed busy working building trades. If I could help you in any way please let me know
Do you follow upcoming projects? such as Enbridge line 3 or keystone once it gets the Green light.
Pipefitter for local 400 Fox Valley, WI. Like your vids. I want to dip my toe into pipeline work.
I kind of knew you were not on the pipeline field for awhile. Have not seen any videos of you on the road traveling for work.
thought I would mention there is a job starting up around Livingston,Texas I have been seeing a lot of welding rigs in town lately...................................................JS*
Wow I live in Livingston tx
Don’t understand, Jobs dispatched in 798 just in February is like 65. If there are that many in one month seems like there is work. What am I missing? Well may have answered myself. 798 has maybe 7000 members, don’t know the mix (welders, helpers, foremen etc) just seems like as many pipelines going now, work should be plentiful.
Dang time fly’s didn’t realize it was that long but knew you were off and back here in Oklahoma hopefully we can get together sometime would love to finally meet you!
HOW DO THEY COME UP WITH THE NUMBERS 798 ??
Yes I do. I have been wondering this.
I just found out you have a brother through tic tok because I saw his videos
Still paying them union dues while you weren’t workin ??
Ryan Cadwallader Yep
Small price to pay. Granted any amount of money is something when you have nothing coming in but It’s really not much.
Yep!!!
Jus curious if that Small price is job security to be laid off for a year If you work something no union while in a local doesnt that make you a scab then you go against union bylaws and risk being booted
I don't know about his union, but for mine I only have to pay 10 dollars a month when I am not working. That's nothing, I pay more than that for coffee in a week.
You have a great attitude and a good perspective.... Wish you all the best. I likwhat you said about being professional... Thats getting harder and harder to find these days... Can you get unemployment???
I’m not trying to be negative but I’ve always been a non-union guy (28yrs if working and still rolling). I have a lot of buddies who are union and they are never working. I just don’t understand where the benefit is in that scenario
yes, been wondering if you will ever work again
No I didn’t know that. Does 798 have a pension plan or 401k? Union sheet metal apprentice from Michigan just curious
I remember in the early 80's there wasn't any pipeline or fabrication work anywhere ,alot of hand lost their rigs , homes everything it all depends on the oil and gas industry you have to have a favorable economy to persuade the oil and gas company to spend there money
Austin keep positive attitudes, stay away from gloom and doomed if at all possible.. Do what is best for you and yours, survive the way you know how...after Biden should get better...
No, I didn't knew that you were laid off that long! I have followed your channel.
Non union or union work work is work Rockford has job starting or already started south of Houston an theres 150 miles going from shereveprot to lake Charles that has or is starting if I’m not wrong
If your considered an independent contractor with the UA why can’t non union shops hire a union rig?
When the price of oil goes down all of you will be going to your local union for great paying job. Sometimes you have to travel.
So if they don't have work, they are also aloud to tell you you can't do other work?
Do you have to test when you go out on a union job?