Desperate job seekers have been waiting outside a Queens union office since 4 a.m. Friday morning, in hopes of obtaining an application for an apprenticeship with Local 3, the elevator mechanics union. Hundreds of people are waiting—some set up tents while others are just standing. One man explained to WCBS 2, "We've been here pretty much all weekend. They're supposedly one of the busiest unions in the city. It's too good of an opportunity to pass up."
According to 1010 WINS, "Apprentices with the union earn $14 to $16 an hour and get training to become elevator mechanics. Full-fledged elevator mechanics can make up to $40 an hour." Only 750 applications will be given out at 9 a.m. today and there are only 100 apprenticeship positions.
In spite of the rain, the job seekers are still there. One man told the Daily News, "It's been awful and soggy and wet, but I can't leave. I don't even think about leaving," while another man said, "I don't care if I have to wait three days in snow, rain, I'll do anything for my family."
