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Pennsylvania locksmithing

Wondering which locksmith course to take? Looking for locksmith license info for your locale? This is the forum for you.

Pennsylvania locksmithing

Postby Silverado » 16 Jun 2016 12:25

Anyone know of a good locksmith or school in the Pittsburgh area? I've been dabbling for years, but have had no formal training or advice. My training came from books and practice, and I'd like to raise the bar.
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Re: Pennsylvania locksmithing

Postby Tyler J. Thomas » 17 Jun 2016 10:00

Pop A Lock in Pittsburgh is hiring 2-3 apprentices if you're looking for a job in the industry. Good place to start.
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Re: Pennsylvania locksmithing

Postby Silverado » 20 Jun 2016 7:55

Awesome! Thank you for the info!
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Re: Pennsylvania locksmithing

Postby Tyler J. Thomas » 21 Jun 2016 7:33

Good luck!
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Re: Pennsylvania locksmithing

Postby Silverado » 22 Jun 2016 14:37

Confederate, I checked into that and unfortunately it's not a change I can make. It would be so much of a pay cut I'd be in bad shape.
I may still try to get in touch to see if anyone can spare some time though!
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Re: Pennsylvania locksmithing

Postby Tyler J. Thomas » 22 Jun 2016 16:07

I hear ya. I get calls from shop owners or vendors about once or twice a month asking me if I'm interested in a job. I'm always polite but there's virtually no way I would leave AND take a big hit to my paycheck. You gotta do what's in your and your families best interest. I hope you can find what you're looking for eventually. Maybe look for part time work?
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Re: Pennsylvania locksmithing

Postby Silverado » 23 Jun 2016 6:57

A part time gig wouldn't be terrible. I may just continue practicing and saving up for tools of the trade (and licensing) to start up my own business. It doesn't seem like a terrible investment.
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Re: Pennsylvania locksmithing

Postby Tyler J. Thomas » 23 Jun 2016 8:44

Silverado wrote:A part time gig wouldn't be terrible. I may just continue practicing and saving up for tools of the trade (and licensing) to start up my own business. It doesn't seem like a terrible investment.


It's not. Smart small and add tools/materials necessary for each project - similar to how anyone builds their workshop at home. You don't buy everything at once, you add it as you need it.

Solicit your services, such as rekeying, on Craigslist or through HOA's. I would suggest focusing on residential rekeys and installs first, personally. Large profit margins, plenty of work, and COD. Can't beat that. Heck, you might even try assisting listing agents in exchange for them handing out your card and/or referring you to new home buyers.

Good luck.
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