[Twister]

I used to live in North Dakota. I am NEVER going back.

Sure, if you need to make some cash, the oilfields are hiring. But at what cost?

Let me tell you what life in North Dakota is like. The first snow tends to fall on Halloween and then it gets ungodly cold VERY quickly. Everyone plugs their cars in when they are at home in order to keep the engines from freezing. Last snow tends to melt in late May, June is like most other places Novembers, and then you have a brief summer that lasts roughly July-August-first 2 weeks of September. This is when the mosquitoes come out- big ones, the size of fruit flies. Clouds and clouds of them.

There is nothing to do there. Nothing. The locals are quite rednecky, the girls are usually overweight, and women wear a constant uniform of baggy jeans and hooded sweatshirts. These women have a bitchy attitude that far outweighs their attractiveness.

A newspaper article is going viral right now- one of the food critics in a North Dakota town wrote up a glowing review of the best restaurant in town- the Olive Garden. When this restaurant opened, there was a 3 hour wait to get inside. I can't post a link due to forum restrictions at the moment, but just Google "Marilyn Hagerty Olive Garden".

If this is how you want to spend some of your prime years in order to make some cash, that is your choice. But do not take this decision lightly, for you will pay a price of misery, misery, misery.

[jdreise]

(03-12-2012 10:37 PM)Twister Wrote:  

I used to live in North Dakota. I am NEVER going back.

Sure, if you need to make some cash, the oilfields are hiring. But at what cost?

Let me tell you what life in North Dakota is like. The first snow tends to fall on Halloween and then it gets ungodly cold VERY quickly. Everyone plugs their cars in when they are at home in order to keep the engines from freezing. Last snow tends to melt in late May, June is like most other places Novembers, and then you have a brief summer that lasts roughly July-August-first 2 weeks of September. This is when the mosquitoes come out- big ones, the size of fruit flies. Clouds and clouds of them.

There is nothing to do there. Nothing. The locals are quite rednecky, the girls are usually overweight, and women wear a constant uniform of baggy jeans and hooded sweatshirts. These women have a bitchy attitude that far outweighs their attractiveness.

A newspaper article is going viral right now- one of the food critics in a North Dakota town wrote up a glowing review of the best restaurant in town- the Olive Garden. When this restaurant opened, there was a 3 hour wait to get inside. I can't post a link due to forum restrictions at the moment, but just Google "Marilyn Hagerty Olive Garden".

If this is how you want to spend some of your prime years in order to make some cash, that is your choice. But do not take this decision lightly, for you will pay a price of misery, misery, misery.

Yup. Very accurate assessment. The only redeemable qualities about ND are hunting, fishing, and now the chance to make money. I hate the thought of going back there but the money is just so tempting at this point. I can already see the glass ceiling with what I'm doing now and by spending some time making cash I'll be able to set up some more investments and network for the opportunity to head somewhere else.

If you would have asked me out of college, or even a year ago, if I would consider going back to ND I would have laughed in your face. After Wyoming or Eastern Montana I think of it as one of the least desirable places in the US. The crap quality of life is something you have to weigh when deciding if it's for you. Those Upper Midwest girls are ridiculously bitchy and small-minded. I can't imagine dealing with that again.

Anyone considering going to ND needs to be forewarned that it is a different culture. It may be the US but people there are fundamentally different than people in New England, California, or the South. It's a strange, homogeneous place. You will have culture shock. The caricatures presented in the move "Fargo" do exist in real life. They aren't the majority but after having lived there I can watch that film and recognize everyone in it. Does a place like that sound appealing to you?

Twister, whereabouts did you live?

(03-12-2012 10:10 PM)scotian Wrote:  

jdreise, if you played your cars right, in 3-5 years you could be working in the ME or Asia making 3X as much an a teacher and spending your days of in Thailand with wads of cash.

^^^^THIS is the major incentive. I am willing to work hard and put up with some shit if I know there will be benefits down the road.

[Twister]

jdreise: I don't want to name exactly where I lived as I am trying to maintain some anonymity here (I've been anticipating something like the current SPLC witch hunt for some time now). I can say I lived in a college town in the Eastern part of the state. Sounds like you were as miserable as I was there.

[Screwston]

You know damn well nobody is going to make the leap. It seems like most of the guys around here ain't the types to get their hands dirty or were born with a silver spoon in their mouth. I'm planning on going to Canada (what up scotian) after I finish up my basics. I would of done this North Dakota journey without a 2nd thought a few years ago though.

[joehoya]

Here is the deal,

i see this as a great opportunity for guys who lack direction in their lives and need a better job (and possibly go into a new career). It is also good for guys who need a large influx of cash for some reason (perhaps for starting a business, or buying a house). If you are already making good money (especially if it is doing something you like) you can ignore the calls of moving to North Dakota or Canada to work in the oil fields. Make an assessment on whether or not taking a job in this industry will take your career/life in a direction that you want to go.

Don't go to work some manual labor job just because you think it will make you more manly. If you want to be more manly, join a boxing gym or a good judo club. They are both dirt cheap (anywhere from free to $50 a month) and really are character builders. Having some guy actively trying to punch you in the face and dealing with fear/emotions that spring from that will make you more manly MUCH quicker than being some laborer in North Dakota.

The North Dakota oil industry is a great place for folks to make a level of income disproportionate to their skill set. It is one of the few areas where unskilled and semi-skilled individuals can make really good money. HOWEVER, do not for a second think that this will last forever. Use your time there to build capital and acquire skills, experience, and connections to succeed AFTER the bubble there has burst.

It is 100% true, however, that with opportunities like this around no-one should be complaining that they can't find a job. Do what you have to do to get where you want to go.

[Belize King]

Mixx had a crazy review of the area so I wouldn't mind making that move for a few years. I was actually looking into NDSU for '13 Fall semester. Something different. Now that I see the oppertunity, I could see myself making some money for a few years till the money runs out then go back to school. I never had to deal with the cold, except for a few months in my life so I would have to do a semester first to test it out. The work is nothing but I wasnt too happy in Germany for the month I was there during winter haha.

[Bad Hussar]

(03-12-2012 05:38 PM)Hencredible Casanova Wrote:  

I can see where you're coming from but I think college graduates are, or should be, well-rounded. I think finding an opportunity that allows them to apply many of their skills and talents is the preferred route. Hard labor is just hard labor. I know I would be wasting my creative talents by being in an environment like that 24/7. Hell, I train hard in my workouts and that's enough for me. I'm better off spending most of my time in endeavors that draw strongly on my intellectual abilities.

One of the best pieces of advice I ever received was from a guy who explained that it's not really neccesarry to marry your passions and your job. If you can, that's brilliant, but it's not required. In fact the act of HAVING to make a living off your passion often corrupts it and you end up losing interest.

There really is no shame in having a JOB, rather than some sort of designer lifestyle. These kind of gigs in the oil industry sound ideal since the rotation system frees up more time for other pursuits than other similar paying jobs. Also, oil companies need people for a whole range of positions, so your educational background may be useful in some other capacity down the line.

[jdreise]

@Twister
Damn a SPLC witchhunt. I don't think I've said anything overly misogynistic on here and I don't give a damn if they know who I am. I actually had a pretty good time in North Dakota but I was an athlete so I was in a privildged class. As an adult, that place sucks hardcore.

@TexasMade

I graduated from NDSU. Why exactly do you want to go there? I could give you some info on what the area's like.

You do know that the oil field is in Williston, 400 miles from NDSU in Fargo, right? You can't work in the oil field and attend classes at the same time.

[Aliblahba]

You suckers move to move to ND all you want. Tim Ferris is releasing 2HWW soon. It's twice as good as his last one. In 1 year, I'll buy my OWN island.

[MikeCF]

(03-12-2012 10:37 PM)Twister Wrote:  

Sure, if you need to make some cash, the oilfields are hiring. But at what cost?

I've done a lot of shitty jobs.

I spent two years serving Italian food to red necks to pay for college.

Your first job isn't your dream job.

[Aliblahba]

(03-13-2012 04:13 PM)MikeCF Wrote:  

(03-12-2012 10:37 PM)Twister Wrote:  

Sure, if you need to make some cash, the oilfields are hiring. But at what cost?

I've done a lot of shitty jobs.

I spent two years serving Italian food to red necks to pay for college.

Your first job isn't your dream job.

Seriously Mike, stop preaching to these guys. They are all dreaming of internet junkie jobs. And when they get rich all the pussy will flow their way, cause we all know the real international playboys are internet pimps. There's no need to go out and put yourself at risk on a real job.

[Deluge]

(03-14-2012 03:13 AM)Aliblahba Wrote:  

Seriously Mike, stop preaching to these guys. They are all dreaming of internet junkie jobs. And when they get rich all the pussy will flow their way, cause we all know the real international playboys are internet pimps. There's no need to go out and put yourself at risk on a real job.

There's no need to be hating on making money online on this thread and the other one.

Guys have been successful with it, denying that is eerily similar to "Game deniers". And if you do recognize the fact that it can be done yet still hate, then why? Why do you have such a problem with people making money off of ad revenues from websites and selling products online (which is how most "internet pimps" make their dough anyway)?

It is no different to lousy TV networks making all their money from advertising on their ad breaks, or being a sales person that is physically present in front of the consumer.

If you don't like them because they're safe and don't put people at "risk", then do you consider the bulk of white collar jobs to not be "real jobs"?

[Aliblahba]

FWIW guys, I'll tell you how I'd play this one out. I have experience in boom towns, and, as others have said, they do suck. I believe what was posted about Olive Garden, b/c I was in a town where Applebee's was the hottest saloon around.

So, if you have some funds, just drive up there and you'll find work. McDonalds is paying $15 an hour right now.

For you guys that don't have the money:

Get your resume sorted out and find something online. Those companies up there are desperate, and will pay for relocation. Go to work. Now, I've heard the housing situation up there is horrible, so you gotta work this one out. After about 2 months, you should have enough money to buy a camper. Nothing crazy, but maybe a 20' Prowler. Make sure you gotta place to put it up. Look outside the area, and see if the owner will deliver. Campers are cheap right now due to the economy.

I worked jobs where guys that brought in their campers were reimbursed by the company for lot rent. It runs around $400 in the South. Now you've got some decent accommodations, and you can sell it when you leave.

It's easy to get bored in boom towns, and you'll be tempted to spend money on stupid shit. Don't. Remember, you're there to make money. Period. Having a camper gives you access to a kitchen. Cook and pack a lunch from the leftovers. This will save money.

From vast experience, I can tell you living in hotels sucks. It's unhealthy eating out all the time. The walls start closing in. Be a per diem whore and cook for yourself, don't spend too much time in bars, and consider getting a g/f. Chasing pussy is expensive. Again, you're there to make some quick cash and get the fuck out.

[Hotwheels]

Speaking of getting a camper, I hear they bring big money out there as obviously all the local stock is long gone.

Been thinking about buying them cheap here and hauling them out 3 or 4 at a time. Need to find out just what the price spread is before jumping on it.

If I had the funding I'd build a couple apartment buildings out there....

Edit-Just took a peak and found this listing on CL:


1997 Carri-Lite Travel Trailer

Fully Loaded

Super Slideout

Queen Bedroom

Nice Bathroom, Vanity, Shower

Plenty of Storage...

Heated Floor System...

Water tank runs off electric or propane.....

Clean Unit/Ready to move in....

Just got it thru the snow storm in the Midwest...I'll wash it up for you when the weather breaks!

$2000/monthly

http://nd.craigslist.org/apa/2883992492.html

Holy fucking balls.... 2 grand to RENT a 15 year old travel trailer....

Apartment/rental listings;
http://nd.craigslist.org/apa/

[jdreise]

(03-14-2012 08:03 AM)Aliblahba Wrote:  

FWIW guys, I'll tell you how I'd play this one out. I have experience in boom towns, and, as others have said, they do suck. I believe what was posted about Olive Garden, b/c I was in a town where Applebee's was the hottest saloon around.

So, if you have some funds, just drive up there and you'll find work. McDonalds is paying $15 an hour right now.

For you guys that don't have the money:

Get your resume sorted out and find something online. Those companies up there are desperate, and will pay for relocation. Go to work. Now, I've heard the housing situation up there is horrible, so you gotta work this one out. After about 2 months, you should have enough money to buy a camper. Nothing crazy, but maybe a 20' Prowler. Make sure you gotta place to put it up. Look outside the area, and see if the owner will deliver. Campers are cheap right now due to the economy.

I worked jobs where guys that brought in their campers were reimbursed by the company for lot rent. It runs around $400 in the South. Now you've got some decent accommodations, and you can sell it when you leave.

It's easy to get bored in boom towns, and you'll be tempted to spend money on stupid shit. Don't. Remember, you're there to make money. Period. Having a camper gives you access to a kitchen. Cook and pack a lunch from the leftovers. This will save money.

From vast experience, I can tell you living in hotels sucks. It's unhealthy eating out all the time. The walls start closing in. Be a per diem whore and cook for yourself, don't spend too much time in bars, and consider getting a g/f. Chasing pussy is expensive. Again, you're there to make some quick cash and get the fuck out.

Apparently there aren't many places to put your trailer or RV. This guy says you should just bring your car at first and then maybe find a trailer after you have a job.

You could always take a trip to Fargo or Bismarck after you find a job in order to pick up a trailer.

[Aliblahba]

A coworker recently called a recruiter ref. a North Dakota job.

Question 1. Do you have a pulse? Yes.

Question 2. Have you had a felony in the past 3 years? No.

He was offered 2k per week to start after a drug screen. It's that easy. And that is low end money for us skilled professionals.

[el mechanico]

This thread is making me think we should be buying RVs here that are dirt cheap and bringing them there to sell. I get offered them for 1000 or so all the time.

[Screwston]

Ali - why are people stuck up there with no jobs if its that easy?? What the hell.

[Aliblahba]

(03-30-2012 12:09 PM)houston Wrote:  

Ali - why are people stuck up there with no jobs if its that easy?? What the hell.

Who's stuck up there with no jobs?

[Screwston]

Ali I could of swore someone was saying that there's a bunch of people up there struggling to find work and sleeping in their cars. I guess it was somewhere i n Canada in another thread.

[Hotwheels]

They are sleeping in their cars because there is no place to rent.

The population has exploded and infrastructure has not been able to keep up.

Apparently some of the bigger contractors like Halliburton have started building man camps like Scotian describes in his Canada thread.

When McDonalds is paying over 15/hour I doubt it is hard to find a job.

[Aliblahba]

(03-30-2012 02:37 PM)houston Wrote:  

Ali I could of swore someone was saying that there's a bunch of people up there struggling to find work and sleeping in their cars. I guess it was somewhere i n Canada in another thread.

I doubt it. I spent over 4 hours yesterday compiling a list of websites for jobs up there. Anyone with mechanical, electronic, supply chain, or oilfield experience won't have a problem finding a job. There are simply too many jobs posted. One website listed 200 oil companies operating up there. I didn't even look at support jobs, like cooks, drivers, front desk staff, bartenders, ect.

The biggest thing I saw has how little experience they would accept. Some good jobs, paying probably mid-20's to start, just wanted someone mechanically inclined. WOW. Usually in the oilfields you gotta have specific experience, certifications, and know someone.

I'm telling you, now's the time to get into the field. It ain't the cleanest work, but it's honest work and pays well. Go up there, try to find a 3 month rotation, and use your off time to take college classes and certifications online. That's how you'll move up. Getting educated and experienced simultaneously.

[scotian]

Guys this is exactly what the Canadian boom town of Fort Mac was like 5-6 years ago, the time to be there is NOW. If you've got nothing else going on work wise or are a young, adventurous type with ambition and drive, get up there as quick as you can.

Ideally, if I was to go there, I'd buy a shitty winnebago or truck with a fifth wheel, head up to Williston and see what happens. Worse case scenario is that you come home a couple grand poorer, but if you're reading this blog you probably have a desire to get ahead in life, travel, make money, etc so by going there, you'll get a job.

Guaranteed it sucks massive balls up there, just like Fort Mac does, but it isn't about lifestyle, its about the money and valuable work experience a guy can obtain up there. Like the OP said, if you're not happy with your work situation right now, whay aren't you in North Dakota?

Take it from me guys, I`m proof that a guy with absolutely no skills or mechanical aptitude can move from a low income part of his country to a boom town like this and be making six figures within a year or two. Just do it!

[Aliblahba]

An old friend is a project manager that just spent some time up in Williston. And I quote the message he JUST sent me.

"Any living person can get a job in and around Williston, ND. Seriously. Skilled or not. That place is absolutely crazy. I would suggest to your coworkers that they go there in search of work. There's also a lot of oil sands job in Alberta too. We've been sending a lot of people up there as well."

For you young cats, if the money is tight, see if someone in your family will loan you the stake money to get up there. Come up with an intelligent business proposal, and pitch it to them. These opportunities don't come around often. I would have given my left nut to have had this shit going on around '98-'02.

[Screwston]

I might be the first to make a data sheet. I told my boy and he won't leave his girl. This guy lives with his parents! I'm the only one in my circle willing to leave the comfort zone.

Should I just leave my car and take a flight out there? I'm broke as fuck and don't know what job they would give me with no experience. Hell, I'll dig holes all day if I'm getting paid decent and seeing how shit works up there. I need a break from pussy anyways and am tired of my lifestyle right now. Drinks on me Ali and Scotian when we meet up one day. Scotian, I think this is gonna be the first step before Canada.