If you want to join the ranks of electricians, it is a good idea to study hard in high school. Take math classes, including algebra and trigonometry, as well as shop and mechanical drawing courses.
Electricians specialize in installing, repairing and maintaining electrical systems. These systems can be found in homes, commercial buildings, and industrial sites. The education and training required to become an electrician is varied, but most programs include a combination of classroom instruction and on-the-job experience. Some electricians also have additional specialized skills or knowledge, including blueprint reading, safety practices, and electrical code regulations. Visit https://www.ampi-electricinc.com/ to learn more.
Other education options for aspiring electricians include vocational schools and apprenticeships. These are often offered through unions and other trade organizations. These programs typically last four or five years and provide a mixture of technical instruction and hands-on job training. In addition to general electrical theory, these programs typically cover topics like arc welding and soldering, conduit bending, and the selection of wire and cable for specific projects.
Some programs require high school diplomas or equivalent, while others do not. However, many vocational schools recommend focusing on certain subjects during high school, such as math and physics. These skills are necessary for electricians to read blueprints and understand schematic diagrams.
An apprenticeship is a great option for future electricians, as it gives them hands-on training with an experienced electrician. Some programs last four or five years and include 2,000 hours of paid on-the-job training. In addition to learning practical skills, apprentices also receive classroom instruction in areas like electrical theory, safety, and first-aid practices. Some apprenticeships allow students to earn academic credits that apply towards an associate degree in electrical technology.
While there are many ways to become an electrician, it is important to choose the right program for you. Whether you choose to attend a vocational or trade school, you should be able to find a program that is accredited and offers the specific courses that are needed for your career. In addition, make sure that the program offers OSHA 30 Hour certification and uses the industry recognized National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER) Construction Core and Electrical Level 1 curricula.
Job Duties
Electricians install, repair and maintain electrical power, communications, lighting and control systems in homes, businesses, and factories. Almost every building has these systems, and they power the equipment that makes our lives and work easier and more comfortable. Whether working on new construction or maintaining existing equipment, electricians use their knowledge of wiring, tools and safety regulations to ensure the safe distribution of electricity.
The specific job duties of an electrician depend on their specialization and the type of building or area in which they work. For example, industrial electricians may be required to work in harsh environments with noisy or dusty conditions. In these situations, the electrician may need to wear protective gear, including a face mask and rubber gloves. They may also be required to climb ladders or scaffolding, and they may have to work from heights. Additionally, they must be able to follow instructions and operate hand and power tools such as wrenches, pliers, drills, soldering irons, and volt-ohmmeters.
Other electricians, such as inside wiremen or linemen, support and troubleshoot electrical process systems in buildings and businesses. Their responsibilities include reading blueprints and interpreting schematics to determine the locations of circuit breaker boxes, switches and outlets. They must also be able to assemble, mount and wire circuit breakers and transformers. They must also stay apprised of yearly modifications to the National Electric Code.
In addition to their regular job duties, some electricians are on-call for emergency repairs. This can require them to be available outside of normal working hours, including nights and weekends. Finally, all electricians must be able to travel to job sites as needed. This could mean crossing state lines or even flying to other countries for important jobs. The work of an electrician is not for everyone, but it can be a very rewarding career for those who are up for the challenge. The demand for electricians is high, and there are many opportunities to advance in the field. In addition, the salary for electricians is higher than the average for most occupations.
Salary
According to the BLS, a licensed electrician can expect a salary of up to $90,000 a year. However, this will vary by location and experience.
In addition, apprentices pay reduced wages while they learn the trade. They typically take several hundred hours of classroom instruction. They then enter a contract with a journeyman electrician and follow apprenticeship standards for a few years. Once they are deemed competent by a local, state or national licensing body, they earn a full wage. In the states, apprentices can enter union apprenticeship programs run by unions like IBEW, or non-union programs sponsored by electrical contractors and other non-registered trade organizations.
A career as a licensed electrician also offers excellent job security, since power systems need repair and upgrades all the time. A skilled tradesperson can find work in a variety of fields including residential, commercial, and industrial construction.
Electricians can also choose to become self-employed. This option gives them more control over their schedule, but it also comes with a greater responsibility. In this type of role, the electrician may have to work nights and weekends to respond to emergency calls. Additionally, the electrician may be required to sign up for on-call jobs if their employer cannot provide adequate coverage.
Regardless of whether an electrician works for themselves or with a company, their job will depend on how hard they work and how much knowledge and expertise they can gain in the field. Those who excel in their craft will make themselves indispensable to their bosses and will likely receive raises or even promotions.
A good work ethic is important for any career, and it’s especially true for electricians. If a licensed electrician is on-time every day, puts in extra effort when necessary and strives to improve his or her skillset, the boss will take notice. This is an intangible that is often overlooked when determining how much a Licensed Electrician makes, but it is a vital component to the career.
Work Environment
Electricians work in both indoor and outdoor environments at homes, businesses, factories, and construction sites. They may spend most of their time installing and repairing electrical systems, but they also have to use their troubleshooting skills when things go wrong with equipment like motors or control panels. They often use their test equipment to find and fix the problem, so they need a good understanding of electrical circuits and a variety of tools.
They must be physically strong enough to handle heavy components, and they need to have physical stamina as well because they’re on their feet all day running wire. They’re constantly moving to connect fixtures to the wire and are sometimes required to be on ladders or in confined spaces. They’re also required to wear protective gear when working on electrical projects that can be hazardous.
In some cases, electricians collaborate with other members of a construction crew, such as building engineers or HVAC contractors. They might be asked to review plans and sketches to identify the location of wiring or equipment, and they’re responsible for ensuring that new construction meets safety and building codes. They might also help to install or repair light fixtures and other electrical equipment in existing buildings.
Some electricians are self-employed and may be required to work on an on-call basis to respond to emergency calls. Others work for larger companies and have a regular schedule that includes a minimum of 40 hours per week plus overtime. They might be asked to assist in the installation of new electrical equipment or to perform maintenance on existing equipment, and they might operate a truck or other vehicle for the transportation of materials or equipment. They might also be required to take part in a variety of on-call duties, such as responding after-hours emergencies. Depending on their employer, they might be required to wear a uniform or follow other dress codes. The career is a great fit for people who prefer hands-on, physically demanding work and dislike office environments that limit their creativity. It is also a good choice for people who enjoy taking apart and fixing things.