Travel and Career Choice/The Trades

[TerryTheLuddite]

Hi All,

I've been on HU for a while but haven't needed to post due to the volume of helpful information already discussed in depth, I appreciate this. I do want to gather some insight about switching to industries that accommodate travel a bit better, the trades seem to do this better than white collar work. I'm also very interested in any input I can get on your work and how you marry up travel with it. Mind that I've read damn near every line of Touring Ted's "do you like your job / careers?".

For Everybody
Has your particular industry and region allowed you the ability travel when you see fit? If so, what kind of qualifications is needed for your profession? Pros and cons? If you love your work arrangement, I want to hear from you.

For Folks in the Trades:
I've got friends that are union carpenters and electricians. It would appear that one needs to be very dedicated during the apprenticeship program, but once you're topped out, you can work for a while and pull yourself off the out-of-work list to travel periodically. Can anybody speak on this? Even if you're based in the US/Canada or not, please do tell. I may join the union millwrights in the PNW where I originate from for interest and flexibility, strong unions.


My Background and Preferences:
I'm 27, currently an engineer at a company that builds large concrete structures. I engineer the temporary framing that keeps buildings standing while they're not completely built and strong. I've begun project management as well, so I consequently work 50-60 hours a week since I'm both slow and overloaded. I'm simply clocking in miles at this point, I want want a balance of work and travel, not just slavery. Past jobs: wildland firefighting, ironworker, engineer for EVs.

Happy planning everybody, don't sneeze

Terry