According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for electricians is expected to grow 10 percent between now and 2028, as of November 2019. That’s faster than the national average for all occupations.

If you’ve ever considered a career as an electrician, now may be the best time to start. 

If you have good hand-eye coordination and a solid understanding of science and math, then a career as an electrician may be a good fit for you. 

Let’s take a look at how to get started on your new career journey.

 

Electricians in Demand

 

Over the past few years, there has been an increase in new renovations and construction across the country. Industry operators are beginning to generate more revenue from electrical installations in residential and non-residential structures. These buildings also require repair, renovation and maintenance work.

As the demand for services increased, so did the need for skilled workers. Almost every building requires electricity and therefore electricians. 

The advent of new types of electricity has also led to an increase in the workload of electricians. From wind to solar, the installation of new systems and their connection to the grid is the responsibility of a qualified electrician.

It is a good idea to look for any sites specific to your electric field for salary data. These sites will provide more information on the average salary for the industry.

There is a fair amount of competition for top apprenticeship programs. However, despite the challenges, pursuing your goals may be worthwhile, as many apprentices make more money than college graduates. 

 

Education

 

You may need a high school diploma or equivalent to become an electrician. Many prospective electricians participate in trade programs where they learn basic skills before entering the field as an apprentice (allowed in some states) or becoming an apprentice. Courses cover basic electrical information, safety practices and electrical circuits.

An apprenticeship is a four- to a five-year program that usually includes electrical code testing. Some states allow entry into the field by receiving training from a state-approved trade school or college. In any case, states will usually require one of these for an electrician to be licensed.

Electrical apprenticeships usually provide at least 2,000 hours of paid on-the-job training. They may also include some classroom instruction. 

During the apprenticeship, workers will learn about blueprints, safety and first-aid practices. They will also learn about electrical code requirements, math and electrical theory. 

 

A Day in the Life

 

Electricians typically spend their work time reading technical diagrams, installing and maintaining wiring systems, identifying electrical problems, and repairing equipment and fixtures.

Electricians may install circuit breaker panels, relays, and switches. They may use test equipment to discover why the equipment is malfunctioning. Repairing and replacing outdated equipment and wiring is also part of the job description.

Installing electrical systems in new buildings is usually easier than in older buildings because the equipment is easily accessible during construction. Maintenance includes identifying problems and repairing equipment that may be difficult to reach.

Electricians may use power tools, such as screwdrivers, wire strippers, drills and saws. They may also use ammeters, voltmeters and cable testers to locate problems.

Many times, electricians go out to work alone. However, they may also work with building engineers, air conditioning installers, or elevator manufacturers to install and maintain electrical and power systems. 

In larger companies, electricians work as part of a staff. They may have apprentices to help them with their work.

Electricians may work in remote areas for a few days or months before moving on to their next job. Maintenance electricians will maintain regular workday hours. However, an independent electrical contractor will need to be available at all times to complete work on short notice.

 

Specialization

 

By specializing and differentiating your skillset, you can make yourself more marketable as an electrician. For example, some electricians may specialize in the design, installation and maintenance of electrical systems. Others may install and maintain electrical systems in homes.

Some electricians may specialize in systems for steel mills. Others may coordinate lighting for movies and television. 

Some electricians specialize in installing equipment that uses alternative energy sources. Others have skills in maintaining older systems. 

 

Necessary Skills

 

To become an electrician, workers must understand nationally recognized systems and maintenance standards. They must also know the building and safety codes of the state in which they work.

Electricians should be able to understand memos, blueprints and technical documentation. They need to have good eyesight to work accurately with electrical products, components and systems.

Electricians need to manage their time well, even when they are working independently. They need to stand or kneel for long periods. Electricians should also be able to lift fifty pounds. 

Electricians need to pinpoint and solve problems. They also need to listen to customers and treat them with respect.

As electricians progress in their careers, they may find themselves taking on apprentices. It is important to be patient and be able to explain electrical practices to others clearly and concisely.

 

Essential Tools to Become an Electrician

 

A career as an electrician is exciting. With the right training, apprenticeships and skill development, you can earn big money immediately. If you are ready to return to work after a workplace accident, excellent electrical tools are your best bet. knoweasy tools are professional electrician tools that can meet the various needs of electricians when working and effectively improve the efficiency and safety of their work.