Is carpentry worth the long commutes, gas cost, and possible layoffs? Opinions

Edited & Reposted- I couldnt edit the title & I assumed carpenters were 1099 not W2.

Hello everyone,

I've been interested in carpentry for a while, I'm currently a furniture repair tech. My biggest dilema right now is that I work a job that provides a vehicle, pays for gas, and drive time to and from the jobs are all covered. I only work indoors which is great in the winter.

In the carpenters union that's no longer the case. I'd have 1-2 hours unpaid per day in drive time since I don't live close to Detroit, plus gas, plus vehicle expenses, and working in all weather conditions. I wouldn't be making more than I make now starting out, but would after a year or so. I love my job but I'll never get up to $50 an hour like the union wages. Also worried about frequent layoffs since I have steady work currently.

Has anyone else made the switch, anyone regret it? Did you find it worth the extra costs/drive time, layoffs or lack of steady work? I keep seeing apprentices in my area looking for work and that worries me. But others say if you're a good worker and network then getting jobs is easy. Looking for opinions or similar experiences. I'm chasing dollar signs ultimatley; I want to earn a good living and not worry about money so much. Also considering IBEW or elavator mechanic but those are harder to get into. Thanks.