Early 30s, family, big pay cut is IBEW apprenticeship worth it?

Thinking seriously about applying for the inside wireman apprenticeship and joining the IBEW, but wanted to get some real-world insight from people who’ve gone through it.

I’m in my early 30s, supporting a family, and this would mean taking a pretty significant pay cut during the apprenticeship. That’s honestly the biggest hurdle for me right now.

Background-wise, I’m not coming in completely green. Did remodel work as a teenager, some laborer work in my early 20s, and worked for a contractor/handyman for a bit in my mid-20s. That said, my actual electrical experience is pretty minimal.

I’ve been studying for the aptitude test and based on practice tests I’m scoring near 100% on the math section, so I’m not too worried about getting through that part.

Main questions for those in the trade:

• Anyone here join in their 30s? How did that transition go?
• How tough was the pay cut early on, especially with a family?
• Any regrets, or things you wish you knew before starting?
• Anything you’d recommend doing before applying/interviewing to improve chances?

From everything I can tell, this seems like a much better long-term path, just trying to make sure I’m thinking it through the right way.

Appreciate any insight.