Introducing myself.

[Steve W1n]

Hi, to one and all,
My name's Steve, 43 years of age, I live in Portsmouth and I'm currently studying to become a plumber via OLCI distance learning.
Why Plumbing? Well, I've worked in most trades in the building industry from Groundwork to Roofing (and some in between), and although a Jack of Trades, never a master of one. Plumbing seems the most appealing to me and holds more interest, and will hopefully provide a more stable form of income for my family.
Unfortunately, I started my course just before the recession hit and I've taken a hiatus from my studies, mainly for financial reasons. Finding this forum will hopefully provide me with friendly experience to call upon and improve my knowledge of my chosen trade, plus I may make a new friend or two?
All the best,
Steve

 

[GreenArmy]

Good luck Steve, although i would say by the time you reach retirement age you should be fairly confident in Plumbing.
All the best.
Mark.

 

[Steve W1n]

Thanks!
Nothing good ever came easy, and I'm sure that in 20 or so years I could be regarded as competent.
From what I've read on this forum and comments from other areas, maybe OLCI weren't the best option to get into the trade? Although I haven't taken the intensive route to my C&G, as I realise that I need to gain the experience and confidence to succeed as a Plumber, and theres not many options open for someone of my age to get into the business.
I've a good, basic knowledge of what is entailed in plumbing, with enough practical experience to give me an interest (I fitted my own bathroom, for example) and that's the foundation I chose to work upon.
I felt at the time that there was a catch 22, in so much as the only courses I could get on were those at my local college, but I had to be working in the industry to qualify for a place, but to get into the industry I had to be qualified because nobody was interested in employing a 40 year old apprentice.
I'm optimistic about my future...

 

[Dave]

Hello steve and welcome....enjoy your stay.

 

[david williams]

steve it will be tough going but you must have picked up a little of plumbing while on sites keep going you will get there

 

[Steve W1n]

Hi Daves, thanks for the comments and encouragement.
I have done a bit of plumbers mate work in the past (mainly setting out, lifting floorboards, etc), plus I'm fine with my soldering, maybe not as tidy as a seasoned pro, but that'll come with experience.
I'm under no illusions that it will be hard going, but I'm tenatious enough to stick at it, and I really enjoy practical, hands-on work.
I've had a good shufty through the threads on the site tonight, and I'm really pleasently surprised at the friendly atmosphere and willingness of the more experience to empart their wisdom - nice touch.
I've learned a lot already...