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so I have pretty much just got out of high school and really want to be a locksmith, but I don't have the work experience to find a job to put myself through locksmith school. I even called local companies asking about apprentice work just to get me by for now and they weren't hiring. I'm in a tough spot and need help, advice, and guidance. Also if you have parts or equipment that is in your way maybe we can work something out. I am not trying to ask for a bunch of free stuff, but if you felt the need to give something I would sure be grateful. Thanks guys

I would suggest making a list of all the locksmiths in your area. Hand out a resume to the ones you like best, and call them all, one by one, tell them you are totally fine punching names on keys, or doing all the work one does not want to do, you know, the tedious stuff. Tell them you have already decided what career you'd like and you will be in the field, it's just up to their company if you'll be under them.

As for tools and stuff, don't worry about that until you got the job as an entry level apprentice, or just a general overall helper.
If all else fails, save up every dollar until you can goto a real locksmith training course, try to avoid online correspondence courses, I did one, didn't help much, although many people may have had better luck, I'd opt for a hands on class, by a reputable school.

Also, get your license to drive, if you don't already have it. This will be a big help when searching for a job in the field.

Best of luck!

TSC

I wish you sincere luck in your endeavor. There was another poster a few months ago that was asking about education/training and I mentioned Foley-Belsaw, which is still the best and most respected of the "cheap" options. I had totally spaced this option:

http://www.aloa.org/education/

Click on 'Scholarship Information' on the left, and fill out the application. I am no longer a member for persoanl reasons, but their training is top-notch. I have taken many classes, PRP sittings, and went to the tradeshow -- once. You want real training if you are wanting to do this for a living. Lockmasters and MBA USA are in the same tier, although MBA is more towards the safe-tech end of the spectrum.

Another overlooked option is the 'institutional' locksmith route. Check out universitites, hospitals, commercial real estate companies, etc. Alot of them have staff locksmiths and might be more willing --budget wise-- to take on a trainee. You wont get the full-feature aspect, but if you can do that for a couple of years you can label yourself an expert on whichever brand of hardware/keying system the property has. I did it backwards, I was a field-technician and switched to a cozy institutional job. But I can tear-down a Schlage L-Series mortise lock Forrest-Gump-style and pin Everest Primus in my sleep.

HTH

Thank you both for your help and kind words. Its just a little overwhelming with all of the application fees and all of that, but I will eventually get it done.