I did transient into local 18 and yes when you are working as a transient you will be the 1st mechanic or 1st apprentice let go. If you are considered a valuable peice to the company they will actually forgo layoffs until you deposit your card. This wasn't my case at the time, I was a 3rd year apprentice when I deposited my card into 18 and work was bountiful. Honestly the companies care less about apprentices, you are overhead for them. If they could they would only use a second guy when absolutely necessary. Thank God for our Union.

As far as school is concerned I jumped right into my NEIEP curriculum with no interruption when I jumped locals. I also tested out of year 2 based of my electrical degree I earned in the military so if any of you have the background look into that.