Interested in union trade jobs in Connecticut

I'm based in Connecticut and considering a union trade job. Can anyone share insights on the process of joining a union here and what kind of opportunities and salaries I might expect?

Joining a trade union in Connecticut, like in many other states, typically involves a few steps. Firstly, you need to identify the specific union relevant to the trade you're interested in. Some of the major trade unions in Connecticut include the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), United Auto Workers (UAW), and the Laborers' International Union of North America (LIUNA), among others.

Once you've picked the union you're interested in, reaching out to their local branch is the next step. They can provide you with specific information about apprenticeships, education, and membership requirements for that union. An apprenticeship is usually part of the process - these are often paid and combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction.

Salary expectations can vary considerably based on the trade, experience, and specific union agreements. However, union workers generally earn more than non-union workers in similar roles. For instance, an electrician union member in Connecticut might earn $25-$45 per hour, while a carpenter might earn $20-$40 per hour. Keep in mind, these are only estimates and actual wages can vary.

Beyond the wages, unions also often provide negotiated benefits like healthcare and pension plans, and can provide job security and support in case of disputes with employers.

Remember to conduct your own research into the specific trades and unions you're interested in, as the ones I mentioned are examples and might not necessarily align with your interests or long-term goals. Good luck in exploring this path!