Contributor
Originally Posted by Richard McComas
Richard....the TOSs only say that you CANNOT LINK to another forum. You certainly can mention it. While I remove a lot of links to OWWM, for example, I often advise people to go there if they are looking for information on an older woodworking machine.
Ken
So much to learn, so little time.....
Contributor
This is a head-scratcher.
Member
I would like to add a little more to Yonek's post based on my own experience. If you feel comfortable with computers and automated equipment, you might want to consider buying a commercial strength CNC router. I am mostly retired and want to stay that way but I have come across a number of opportunities to combine woodworking, artistic and/or mechanical design skills to manufacture things on a commercial basis. If you look at the field right now, you will find a lot of people who know how to carve things with software but have no clue as to how to prepare raw materials, use any other type of woodworking equipment or finish the end product. They struggle with some of the simplest things. I think there are opportunities for CNC router users who have a strong woodworking background. This is just something to think about and dig into if it sounds interesting.
Contributor
There's a lot of fairy tale talking here. Sounds good but isn't practical. I searched for an apprentice for 1.5 years. Good pay. But nothing came of it. Those who have the skills are generally taken care of by the company. Those who don't have the shills generally end up in a cabinet shop. Others have the skills but are always looking to start there own company.
Which way should Dorthy go?
Contributor
If you want to discuss the subject of links to other forums at SMC, I suggest you start a thread about that topic in the Off Topic forum. I am going to delete your comments and mine in this thread because we are at the point of hijacking it and taking it away from it's original topic.
Ken
So much to learn, so little time.....
Contributor
Jack,
Are you suggesting because you didn't experience or see it, it didn't happen or doesn't exist and therefore anybody who experienced something different is telling fairy tales?
Come on Man!
So if I had never been to Odessa, Missouri, it doesn't exist and you are telling fairy tales about your location? Or if I had never been to Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska or Missouri and saw the miles of corn and soy beans, those fields don't exist and anybody who says they do is telling a fairy tale?
Come on Man!
Our local economy is primarily dependent on agriculture and timber products. We didn't experience the recent recession for a couple years after the rest of the country began experiencing it. Things can vary dramatically based on locale.
Ken
So much to learn, so little time.....
[OP]
Contributor
Thanks again for all the input folks. As for using my own shop I fear I can not expect to do this year round. My shop is in an 18th century barn and the heating is by three kerosene heaters which take about three hours hours to bring it to 50° in the winter. I've never been real good at repitition but if someone could promise it to be steady work, unaffected by the economy I might give it a go.
I misled as I think I implied I could still do woodworking in the workplace. I have come to the realization that unless I find some miracle cure for my body's problems it might be pretty hard to put in an eight hour day as a woodworker. I hope, by asking the question I did in my OP that I might find a position as an instructor or administrator of a facility that uses a shop. Mainly trying to get as much information as possible in the hope that something clicks.
Contributor
No you come on...Be realistic. A very small percentage make a living as a professional working for themselves. You know it, I know it so stop the sugar coating.
Contributor
Ken, I won't be starting a thread on this because you already well know my opinion and because your opinion, as moderator, is the only one that matters. I believe this is one of the best woodworking sites around. This is my go-to place if I have a woodworking question because I always know I will get accurate, thoughtful answers here. Thank you for providing a place where hobbyists and professionals alike can share knowledge and experiences.
[OP]
Contributor
Jack-
Not to sidetrack but can you tell me what a good wage for an apprentice is in your area. I was one many years ago and I often look at the job postings on craigslist are for positions in woodworking and am amazed at how little people pay. Thanks.
John
Contributor
Last year when I needed help we offered $16-18 for qualified apprentice. One was suppose to show up but never did. We in housed and I have two ex solid surface and one ex cabinet/remodeler working with me...
Contributor
I will mention this....Being a custom furniture builder/maker isn't the only thing going out there. Here is kansas city there are many who have custom furniture shops either with a store front or a shop at their home. Most are loners and don't require a helper. There are also businesses that make other things besides furniture like recreated museum, library pieces, windows or moldings. All these things can require a specialized skill. Some shops you can easily find by doing a general search, yet some require an extensive search and time to find on the internet in your area..
[OP]
Contributor
Will you pay to move me out there?
Contributor
Are you kidding me ? He's willing to pay $16 ~ $18 per hour to an apprentice and you want him to pay your moving expenses ?? Buck up and pay your own way if you want a job.
This is so indicative of seeming prevailing attitudes these days.
Contributor
I've never seen it but somebody might pay to move the right person if that's what it takes.
Here's an odd one in Nashville....http://nashville.craigslist.org/trd/5103494944.html
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