I can feel it... I think I am getting laid off next week.

[RWebb]

a lot of wind power turbines are going up in the area -- they all have to be tied into the BPA grid

might be a direction for you

good luck!

[chocolatelab]

Check and see what is going on with Genie Industries/Terex in Washington.

Might be something interesting there.

[billybek]

Instrumentation isn't a bad way to go. Consistent demand for skilled guys with great earning potential. The worksites can be a little on the remote side, but if you don't mind travelling, a pretty good gig.
A good HVAC or Refrigeration Mechanic with good electrical skills can also be a good payer.
Good luck!

[ledhedsymbols]

After getting the run around for a few weeks I have been having trouble getting paid by unemployment. I put a little pressure on the labor superintendant this morning for some help with unemployment or a more solid answer about work. He hasn't been answering calls, only text message. This morning he told me he would give me a termination slip. Pretty rotten how it all shook out, but at least I know something.

[diverdan]

Job senario wasn't looking profitable for me in the US so I picked up the phone and got hired in Saudi Arabia. Not a fortune, but no taxes and gas is only $.50 a gallon. If you need to get a job, I'll give you some leads. This isn't for everyone, but there are jobs, mabe even marine related. Good luck on the home front.

Diverdan

[genrex]

Led, it sounds like they're trying *not* to pay you for those weeks of unemployment. I hope you get paid for those weeks...

[ledhedsymbols]

I think I'm pretty hosed on that... I let them do this to me, so I only have myself to blame. I thought I could trust the superintendent to play straight with me. On the upside, I didn't burn up the benefits waiting for a job that never materialized. At least now I know what the score is. My wife and I can make a plan, and then execute it. I honestly haven't felt this good in weeks. It's a like a load has been lifted from my shoulders. The constant unknown has been gnawing at me, chewing on my insides. Having such major decisions in the hands of a superintendent who has become impossible to reach and downright dismissive has been hell. I'm just happy to be back in the driver's seat. I'll never relinquish control over that again. It was a good run, but got really sour at the end.

[genrex]

Yes. A good way to start the day, knowing that that is behind you. I think you are blessed to have a good head on your shoulders, an understanding wife, and to live in such a beautiful place. MV is where my girlfriend and I hope to relocate.

Hang in there, bro.

_

[ledhedsymbols]

Thanks a bunch. It's nice here, small city. If you do come here, maybe think about getting out of town a little ways.

[carambola]

Journeyman certified welders out there?
There's a 8 long calls in Local 332 that have been unfilled for two weeks and starting pay is $58.73. For more info visit ibew332.org to get more info.

[ledhedsymbols]

Thanks, I don't for sure who might be interested in a call like that. I will mention it and the website at dispatch on Monday.

[diverdan]

Have to admire your tenacity and hope for making a decent living in your home local. What I was running into were part time gigs that were not profitable due to long commutes for only a couple hours of work and with gas prices the way they are it just didn't work. I'd really like to be back in the states, home. When my finances get fixed the same problem could rear its ugly head again. Its hard work to make it all balance. Keep at it.

Diverdan

[asphaltgambler]

Speaking of unemployment insurance; in Va the state tracks that. If an employer has lots of turnover, even if most or all are not eligible for UEI their rates go up. If they have a habit of hiring, laying off frequently their UI goes sky-high.
Prolly why they thought you would just quit or not pursue it