Most people who end up in the trades got there because they knew someone. An open house gives you that same start when you don’t. It’s a set time when a shop opens its doors to people thinking about the trade.
What happens at one
Every shop runs it a little differently, but you can usually expect to:
- Meet the owner and some of the crew.
- See the shop, the trucks and the tools they use every day.
- Watch a demonstration, and sometimes try something simple with supervision.
- Hear what a normal week looks like and how they train new people.
You’re a visitor. You won’t be asked to do real work for the shop. If a shop wants you working, that’s a job, and jobs are paid.
Ride-alongs
A ride-along is similar, but out in the field. You spend part of a day with a crew on real jobs, watching how they work. It’s the closest thing to seeing a day in the life before you commit.
What to wear and bring
- Work pants or jeans, and a plain shirt. Nothing loose or dangling.
- Closed-toe shoes or boots. Steel or composite toes if you have them.
- Anything the event lists. Some shops ask for safety glasses or ID.
- A phone with your hours log, if you’ve already done some work.
How to make it count
- Be on time. In the trades, showing up on time is half the job, and the crew notices.
- Put the phone away. Watch, listen and ask.
- Ask real questions. What does a first-year apprentice do all day? What do you look for when you hire? What do you wish new people knew?
- Introduce yourself to the owner before you leave, and thank them.
- If you can’t make it, cancel. Shops plan for the people who RSVP.
What happens after
On FirstHand, after an open house the shop can invite you back, offer you a paid apprenticeship, or let you know it isn’t a fit this time. Every event you attend goes on your record, so the next shop you visit sees that you show up.