Becoming An Electrician
The electrician trade is a growing field. Additionally, while the profession does require plenty of education and experience, it doesn't necessarily require a bachelor's degree. The large number of stable, available jobs and low barrier to entry makes the electrician trade an attractive career. Here is a general outline of what you'll go through to become an electrician.
Education
As a skilled trade, electricians only need a high school diploma or a G.E.D. to begin on their career path. Much of the education electricians receive happens during an apprenticeship, a kind of on-the-job training program. During an apprenticeship, you'll also be required to take vocational classes. These classes deal with topics in math, physics, circuits, wiring, and construction. Before apprenticeship, take higher-level math and science courses, as well as courses like woodshop classes. These will help prepare you for your coursework as an apprentice.
Apprenticeship
Many states regulate electricians so you'll need to go through a state-approved program to become an apprentice. As an apprentice, you can work under a licensed electrician, also called a journeyman. The electrician you apprentice for is not only your teacher but also your employer. Because of this, you should be paid for all the work you do as an apprentice. Starting out, much of what you do will be simple tasks like measuring and cutting wire. Over the course of a few years, you can take on more advanced work until you're ready to become a journeyman electrician yourself.
Licensure
Once you've completed your apprenticeship, you're ready to become a journeyman. In many states, this will require taking an exam and registering for an electrician's license. You'll need to renew this license over the course of your career. After a number of years of keeping your license in good standing, you'll even be able to take on an apprentice of your own. You may eventually want to go beyond journeyman to the level of a master electrician. Doing so requires more coursework and another licensing exam.
Specialization
Electricians work on a range of jobs that span wiring for homes, the power supply of new constructions, and even telecommunications networks. During an apprenticeship, you'll be limited to working on whatever projects your teacher takes. It's important to apprentice with a teacher who already works in a specialization you want to enter. You may also take additional coursework as a journeyman to learn a new specialization.
The electrician trade can provide stable jobs that are open to anyone willing to excel. By following the right path, you can earn a career anyone would be proud of.
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