Just wanted to flag a news story that relates to the thread topic.
http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/05/20/camping-out-for-five-days-in-hopes-of-a-union-job/"The men began arriving last Wednesday, first a trickle, then dozens. By Friday there were hundreds of them, along with a few women.
They set up their tents and mattresses on the sidewalk in Long Island City, Queens, unpacked their Coronas and cards – and settled in to wait as long as five days and nights for a slender chance at a union job as an elevator mechanic.
On Monday morning, Local 3 of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers would hand out applications for its training program. Those in line – there were more than 800 by sun-up Monday — were hoping for a chance at job security, higher salaries and other benefits.
Andres Loaiza, 25, had his eye on a position that includes minimal physical labor.
“I want to get to that point where I would troubleshoot and not kill my back anymore,” said Mr. Loaiza, who currently does nonunion electrical and mechanical elevator work. And the union, he added, looking years down the road, would provide college funding for his son, who is now 4.
Every 18 to 20 months, the union accepts 750 applications for the 150 to 200 spots in its four-year apprenticeship program, distributing them from the second-floor office of its elevator division on 36th Street. Those who pass a test and are accepted start out making $17 an hour. If they complete the program, which includes college-level classes, they become journey workers, making $35 to $40 an hour with pensions and full medical benefits."
