-
-
Career opportunities as an electrician are growing, as the advancement of technology in homes and offices creates a need for specialized wiring services. Electricians normally work in the construction sector or in home and office repair, and may choose to be self-employed or work for a company.
-
-
Apprentice Electrician
This video highlights how Walt Cannon, owner of Canon Electric, became an electrician 32 years ago at the age of 16. He began as an apprentice electrician working on decks and commercial jobs on the eastern sea board. When he returned home, he was then able to get his card through the county more easily.
-
-
Introduction
- Electricians install new electrical wiring systems or maintain, repair and upgrade existing systems. The work is strenuous and requires manual dexterity and the ability to work in small spaces. Electrical work is dangerous as well; an electrician must know and practice safety precautions to prevent electrical shocks and bodily injury.
Step 1: Early Preparation
The process of becoming a licensed electrician begins by acquiring a high school diploma or a General Equivalency Diploma (GED). Mathematics courses are important to focus on, because much of the electrician's job requires mathematical problem solving. Mechanical drawing and science coursework will also provide a good knowledge base for a future apprenticeship and advanced schooling.Step 2: Secure Training
- Most electricians are trained through the military, an apprenticeship program or by attending a two-year vocational school.
- Apprenticeship programs are available through electrical unions and chapters such as the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers or the Independent Electrical Contractors Association. They will pay wages as you learn, and also provide classroom instruction. Expect four years of on-the-job training under the guidance of an experienced electrician. The classes teach the apprentice to read construction blueprints, instructs them in National Electrical Code regulations and safety, and provides specialized training such as with elevators.
- Technical and vocational schools offer training courses that focus on English, problem solving, mathematics, business management, electrical safety and code requirements. Employers who hire a vocational school graduate may pay a higher wage during the graduate's on-site training with the company, and the business courses are beneficial for the electrician who may aim to be self-employed.
Step 3: Become Licensed
Most states require an electrician to be licensed in order to perform electrical work, and individual states have different licensing requirements. The licensing requires an exam that has questions based on the National Electrical Code and state and local regulations, as well as on general electrical information.Conclusion
The electrician's profession is a growing one, and should continue to provide job security in the coming years as technology advances and the world becomes more dependent on the electrical grid. Because many electricians are trained as apprentices and are paid while being trained, they have little or no schooling expenses while perfecting their trade.
About this page
-
Page Views40
This page currently has no vertical manager.
