Hey everyone,
I'm a 17-year-old male who recently moved to the
UK from the US with a GED. I'm completely sold on pursuing a career in plumbing—| love hands-on work and want to build a solid, high-earning trade skill.
The challenge is that I have a strict 1-year timeline before I have to move out on my own.
Right now, I don't have a car, and I'm trying to figure out the most realistic starting line. I'm looking to get established and build experience here in the UK, but I might not settle down here permanently.
A few questions I'd love advice on:
1. Where do I actually find an apprenticeship? Do I apply through government sites, local colleges, or cold-call local plumbing companies?
2. Financial priorities: What should I put my money toward first over the next year (e.g., driving lessons, tools, specific courses)?
3. Trade reality check: What should I physically and mentally prepare for when starting out as an apprentice in the UK?
4. Equivalency: Does having a GED slow me down in the UK, or do employers mostly look at work ethic and basic math/English tests?
Anything advice would be great just wondering what to look forward to in adult hood