Becoming an Electrician
Electrical work is a huge part of most homes, businesses, and industrial buildings. Electricians install, test, repair, and maintain the electrical power, communications, lighting, and control systems in these facilities.
Electricians also help restore electricity when a power outage occurs. Many electricians specialize in areas like residential wiring or commercial electrical services.
Becoming an electrician is a great career choice for anyone with strong work ethic and desire to learn. Training is available in a number of ways, including through trade schools or apprenticeship programs. However, it can take up to a few years to complete the necessary training.
Apprenticeships typically include about 1,000 classroom hours and 2,000 on-the-job training hours. Those who complete apprenticeships are able to apply for journeyman positions as soon as they pass the state licensing exam.
Some electricians choose to join a union to gain access to jobs with higher wages and benefits. Those who choose to go this route are required to pay dues and join a bargaining committee that handles contract negotiations for the company or union.
Whether you are looking for an electrician to service your home or business, it’s important to hire someone who has the experience and expertise to do the job correctly. Make sure you get references from past customers and ask if they were happy with the service.
You should also check online reviews to see what others have said about the services the electrician provides. This will help you decide if the electrician is right for you.
Qualifications
An electrician needs a high school diploma or equivalent, along with a strong work ethic and the ability to follow directions. Most electricians receive their training through an apprenticeship, which is a combination of paid on-the-job learning and classroom instruction. Those who wish to continue their education may choose to attend a trade school and earn an associate’s degree in electrician studies.
Employment growth is projected to be faster than average, largely because of the pandemic. As construction building and maintenance increases, contractors will need more electricians to complete projects on schedule.
Alternative energy sources, such as wind and solar power, are emerging fields that will need to be linked to electricity grids over the next decade. This should increase demand for electricians, especially to install new systems that use these renewable energy sources.
A skilled electrician can be a lifesaver during a power outage, but if you aren’t careful, you could end up with an unlicensed worker performing your electrical work. Be sure to check with your local government or building inspector before hiring an electrician.
Becoming a professional is an excellent way to build your reputation in your community. Having a great reputation will increase your chances of attracting new customers and keeping current clients happy. It will also help you build your credibility with local authorities and other contractors.
While the booming construction industry is expected to create more openings for electricians, it will be difficult to find qualified candidates in an increasingly competitive market. This will likely put more pressure on existing electricians, who need to expand their skills and knowledge to keep up with demand.