So, you’ve chosen to pursue a career as an electrician? Congratulations! You’ve picked a consistent profession that will always have an important place in society.
Read our blog to understand how to become an electrician, including the different paths to qualifying, what to expect during training, and what your future career could look like.
Whether you have ambitions to achieve master electrician status, work as an independent contractor, or specialize in industrial settings, there’s plenty of opportunities on offer if you choose this career.
A high level of technical knowledge, skill, and risk management is required to qualify and can take some time to learn, which is why careful research beforehand is always recommended.
If you’re just starting out, you may feel overwhelmed with the amount of information you’ve had to process – but don’t worry – our guide on how to become an electrician will help calm your nerves.
How to Become an Electrician
If you’re considering this career path, the first questions you’ll likely ask are how to become an electrician, the steps needed to get your license, and the scope of the work.
Here’s an overview of the main routes available for qualifying, but which one you choose will depend on factors like personal circumstances and preferred learning style:
High School Diploma or General Education Development (GED)
It’s great that you’re already thinking about the future, but qualifying as an electrician or applying for roles in this field usually requires at least a high school diploma (if you’re planning to take the traditional route).
They often read manuals, take measurements, do basic arithmetic, algebra, and geometry, and use critical thinking skills that are taught during high school. Participation in any sort of woodshop or mechanical drawing classes can also significantly enhance your technical foundation for this career.
Trade or Vocational School
Attending a trade or vocational school isn’t always necessary to become an electrician, but it does offer a much easier route to obtaining all the skills and knowledge you’ll need to get your license. They can help you find a job placement after graduation, too!
Going to a trade school is a much less costly route than a traditional four-year university degree. Every state has different schools or programs – you can easily do research online and find information on what’s available in your area. If you’re eager to get out in the field, some places even offer accelerated programs.
Graduating from a trade or vocational school with the proper certifications allows you to stand out from the competition when searching for an apprenticeship.
But most importantly, you’ll learn the National Electrical Code (NEC) (despite its name, this is not federal law), which teaches you everything you need to know about safely installing electrical wiring and equipment.
Applying For and Obtaining an Apprenticeship
Once you’ve received your high school diploma, or completed training at a vocational school, you’re ready to apply for an electrical apprenticeship.
You’ll be required to find an apprenticeship on your own if you didn’t graduate from a trade school, which might take a little longer. Looking at online job boards and websites, like the United States Department of Labor or International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), is a good place to start.
Apprenticeships can also be acquired through independent electrical contractors. Experienced electricians often run their own businesses and take on apprentices to help them – ask family members and friends to find out whether they have any connections in the industry.
What to Expect During Your Training
Applying for and completing an apprenticeship is the essential first step towards becoming a certified electrician.
Depending on the state you live in, you’ll need to complete a specific amount of hours in the field and classroom. This consists of on-the-job training and mentorship from a master of the trade, where you’ll learn the essentials of how to become an electrician, such as:
- Technical design: Knowing how to draw up blueprints or plans to install, maintain, or repair electrical equipment.
- Tool mastery: Getting comfortable using any special or technical electrician tools that are required to properly complete a job in the industry.
- Regulatory compliance: Making sure any work undertaken is compliant with national and state regulations.
It could potentially take up to five years to get all the necessary training to complete your apprenticeship, obtain your license, and sit the test to become a journeyman electrician.
Discover some of the most common electrician interview questions you could be asked to help you prepare for your dream role.
The Future of Your Career as an Electrician
After you’ve fulfilled these requirements and passed the exam to secure your license – successfully navigating how to become an electrician – it’s time to figure out what the future holds for you.
Journeyman Electrician
Upon completing your apprenticeship, you’ll be considered a journeyman electrician. This means you’re qualified to work independently as a contractor or subcontractor, or join an already established electrical company.
Read our blog to learn about the difference between contractors and subcontractors to see whether these career paths are right for you.
Master Electrician
You can apply to become a master electrician after a few years experience of working as a journeyman, which puts you at the top of your trade.
Similar to the first two stages, you’ll have to pass another exam to reach this level. You’ll have everything you need at this point in your career to conduct business and lead a team of electricians.
And don’t forget to spend time time working out how much you’ll charge for your services to help your business succeed – our contractor pricing guide is a good place to start!
The Different Types of Electricians
Now you have a better understanding of the different levels of career progression for electricians, let’s take a closer look at the areas you could specialize in:
- Residential electricians: This involves carrying out work in homes or apartments in local neighborhoods, primarily focusing on installing or repairing electrical equipment, and maintaining the wiring.
- Commercial electricians: You’d work predominantly in larger properties like shops and offices, and specialize in the type of power used in these settings. Be aware that choosing to focus on commercial maintenance contracts could require some extra training during your time as an apprentice.
- Industrial electricians: You’d carry out electrical work within facilities that use specific equipment or machinery, such as warehouses or power plants. To go down this route, ensure your apprenticeship is mainly centred on this area.
How Much Do Electricians Make?
Since you’re considering a career in this industry, you’re probably wondering how much they make annually. Naturally, the exact amount you make will vary based on your location and employer.
But the average salary for an electrician is $26.34 per hours in the United States, according to Indeed. This calculates as an annual salary of just over $50,000 (before taxes). On the higher end of the scale, you’ll find electricians making over $40 an hour in some places.
The more experience and qualifications you have under your belt as an electrician, the more you’ll be able to make hourly. And if you own your own electrical company or specialize in a certain type of equipment, it’s possible to make even more.
Just like most things in life, qualifying takes time and effort. However, understanding how to become an electrician is the first step towards a great career that opens up a world of possibilities.
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