The Ins and Outs of Being an Electrician

Hello everyone,

I've been working some pretty unfulfilling office jobs lately in my life. I'm looking into join the IBEW up in the northeast as an apprentice. I want to specialize in something and have a bit more purpose. Working with my hands and building things in the physical world that actually help people sounds so rewarding.

I've read hundreds of threads related to becoming an electrician and I know these questions get asked a lot, so sorry if this is annoying. I just want some personal anecdote I guess.

My biggest concern becoming an electrician is the heights while working on ladders. Specifically extension ladders. I've never been afraid of heights but I am afraid of falling. What sort of safety precautions do you guys use on extension ladders? How tall are they typically? Are there ways to tie them down so they dont slide? I know some basic ones like not working off of extension ladders, checking your surroundings, don't mess around on them and take safety as a priority. To my understanding they're just ways to access higher ground. I would be fine working on a 6', 8', 10'+ A frame ladder or a lift.

And then really feel free to share your personal experiences! I'd love to hear about them. How fulfilling has this career been for you? What are your hours like, do you still have time for family, friends, hobbies?

Thanks everyone :)