Why Become an Electrician

electrician working
If you are interested in becoming an electrician, this is a good time. Electricians install, maintain, and repair power and lighting systems and equipment in homes and businesses.
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Job outlook is strong

The job outlook for electricians has faster than average growth of 14% by 2024. 1
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Competitive salary for short training period

Like other skilled trades, being an electrician doesn’t require a college degree and one can train for less than two years. The median annual salary for electricians is $51,880. 2
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Opportunities for career advancement

Electricians can advance in their career. After working as a service technician, many can be promoted to field manager, operation manager, or distribution manager. 3
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Work can be found everywhere

Across the country, electricians are needed. This is particularly true in places with high populations, like California, Texas, New York, Florida, or the Great Lakes area. 4

How to Become an Electrician

If you are interested in becoming an electrician, here are some steps you can take.

1. Get a high school diploma or GED:

To become an electrician, you must have a high school diploma or an equivalent such as a GED.

2. Get training:

Many trade schools have electrician training programs. You will learn how to maintain and service residential, commercial, and industrial electrical equipment. After learning the basic skills, students may also choose to enroll in continuing education relating to circuitry, safety practices, and other basic electrical information.

3. Learn the skills

In a comprehensive electrician training program, you will gain several electrician skills which may include troubleshooting, stamina, critical thinking, customer service, mathematics, and design.

4. Get licenses/certifications/registrations

Many states require electricians to get licensing or certification before they can start working. This means that you typically have to take a test concerning the National Electrical Code, as well as state or local electrical codes. Requirements for testing can vary from state to state. 5

5. Getting employment assistance if you need it

Many schools like Tulsa Welding School offer employment assistance to its students, including help with writing a resume, searching for jobs, and preparing for interviews.

Start Your Electrician Career Strong

Becoming an electrician is one of the most promising skilled trade career paths. Advantages like short training periods, good median annual salary, advancement opportunities, and in-demand skills, make becoming an electrician promising.

Additional Sources

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