Electrician

Why Become an Electrician?

Lighting the way since 1878, electricians are the ones that not only keep our lights on but also ensure we have the ability to run a household, keep connected via social media 24/7, connect our cities, and even power our solar and wind energy turbines. Given that there’s a current shortage of electricians, the industry is set to grow 8 percent from now through 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. Pair that with the fact that electricians currently can make upwards of $90k, investing now into electrician skills can make for rewarding career possibilities.

Electrician
Career Pathways

Becoming an Electrician

Technical College

Electrical trade diploma programs provides training in the necessary fundamentals and enables students to become proficient in installation and maintenance of electrical wiring, transformers: A/C and D/C motor control circuit, instrumentation and programmable logic controllers used in residential, commercial, and industrial applications. Students will be prepared in installation and the maintenance of electrical systems found in residential, commercial and industrial facilities. Most states require electricians to be licensed. Standard pathway to obtaining a technical degree includes:

Meet Education Requirements
High school diploma or GED required
Attend Technical College or Trade School

Minimum of 4 semesters is required required

Complete Apprenticeship

Combine paid onsite training with classroom instruction

Get Licensed to Start Working

Use trade and on-the-job knowledge to pass exam

Please note, requirements may vary by State and location. As well, licensure isn’t required to start working in this profession.

Straight to Workforce

Although most workers enter apprenticeships directly, some electricians enter apprenticeship programs after working as a helper. The Home Builders Institute offers a pre apprenticeship certificate training (PACT) program for eight construction trades, including electricians. After completing an apprenticeship program, electricians are considered to be journey workers and may perform duties on their own, subject to any local or state licensing requirements. Because of this comprehensive training, those who complete apprenticeship programs qualify to do both construction and maintenance work. Some states may require a master electrician to either perform or supervise the work.

Trade Career Opportunities for Electricians

Inside Electricians

Maintain and repair large motors, equipment, and control systems in businesses and factories. They use their knowledge of electrical systems to help these facilities run safely and efficiently. Some also install the wiring for businesses and factories that are being built. To minimize equipment failure, inside electricians often perform scheduled maintenance.

Residential Electricians

Install wiring and troubleshoot electrical problems in peoples’ homes, which can be either single-family or multi-family dwellings. Those who work in new-home construction install outlets and provide access to power where needed. Those who work in maintenance and remodeling typically repair and replace faulty equipment. For example, if a circuit breaker repeatedly trips after being reset, electricians determine the cause and fix it.

Business Owner

Use the skills and experience learned from technical degree, apprenticeship, or on the job training and start a business to become your own boss.

Source: Zippia.com Zippia Logo

**Above career path chart shows how you might advance from one job title to another within the trade industry; not all trade pathways are the same and depend on each person’s ultimate goals and job opportunities

Apprenticeships

Have a career path in mind? Find apprenticeship opportunities near you.

Dual Enrollment

Maximize education and career training by taking courses that earn college and high school credit at the same time.

Search for Open Electrician Positions