Excellent thread. Have gained much insight via this forum. Currently "preferentially hired" and looking for some more info. I have seen the 17 day battle-got it. The CBA looks promising-any idea on when it might finally become complete/official? Are first year hires getting only the minimum 50hrs or is it more common to get 70-80hrs? Will the CBA affect this first year guarantee (have also seen the rig debate, but unsure of first year implications).
Also, I understand there were interviews in December and some planned in January-any idea of when next couple of class dates will be? Do they run more than one class at a time (staggered)? Sounds like hiring might continue through 2011-thoughts?
Is it accurate to say that in training you can expect ~ $1200 monthly (taxable) and ~ $1650 monthly for per diem (non-taxable)? How much does a family kind of guy pay for insurance (health/dental/vision) when on the line? What is best method for staying in contact with stateside folks as far as communication options?
Sorry for the question barrage. Maybe answers will help others as well. Cheers!