Few people realize how much we rely on electricians. They fix and help maintain the appliances, machines, and technology that form the backbone of our daily lives and some are even involved in groundbreaking developments that build the electronics of the future. Being an electrician can be a wonderful career in a city like Lynn, Massachusetts but there are some important requirements.
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With that in mind, let’s review what it takes to become a successful electrician, and we’ll conclude with an important tip on how to get hired by a great company like 128 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, & Electric.
Education – GED or High School Diploma
It may seem amazing that you don’t need an advanced degree to become an electrician but it’s true. You do need to take certain classes early on though and it’s important to pay attention and learn as much as you can. Specifically, the important ones in a GED program or high school are algebra, English, and physics. A basic art class like drawing is important too, given that you’ll likely be working with detailed schematics on the job.
Why English, though? Simple. Electricians have to be able to communicate with and understand their customers to set realistic expectations and reconcile any misunderstandings that may occur.
The math and science components are more obvious. Electricians deal with these two subjects all the time on the job and, while the knowledge they need does tend to be very specific, a strong interest in math and science can go a long way when it comes to getting ahead in this field.
Continuing Education – Trade, Tech or Vocational School
Basic education is just a start. If you want to be a successful electrician, you should consider additional schooling, specifically in the form of vocational classes or classes at a trade or tech school if it’s at all possible. You may even want to get an associate degree in one of the sciences related to becoming an electrician but it’s not absolutely necessary. Doing so can help you become certified and, the more classes you have under your belt, the more you’ll be able to impress potential employers when you start your job search.
Training – The Apprenticeship
Due to the level of knowledge and sophistication of work that’s required of electricians, the work you’ll do during your apprenticeship will be quite rigorous.
There are several ways to find an apprenticeship. One is through a trade school. Another is through the Independent Electrical Contractors, (a trade association), and you can also get into an apprenticeship via the Associated Builders and Contractors or through the Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committees (JATC).
The JATC has offices in several cities and states around the country so it’s an especially good way to go. But that’s just the beginning. The apprenticeship to become a licensed electrician includes classroom instruction, mentoring, and on the job training, from at least one master electrician. The process typically takes between 6,000 and 10,000 hours but some states allow you to count the hours in community college classes or a trade school program to count toward that total.
Licensing & Certification
Once you’ve completed your training, you’ll take the electrician licensing test. This exam tests your comprehension and knowledge of the National Electric Code and it also tests other procedural skills you’ll need on the job.
What Services Do Electricians Provide?
In most job scenarios, electricians are responsible for installing and maintaining wiring systems, performing regular inspections of the systems they service, and reading blueprints and wiring diagrams so they can troubleshoot any problems that may occur.
These jobs expose them to a lot of sophisticated equipment so electricians must know that equipment from the inside out. They also have to work with other professionals who supply the equipment so they must be able to effectively communicate the issues they encounter.
It’s not unusual for electricians to work with high-voltage systems so they must take extra care to make sure they stay safe while they work. Some electricians undergo specialized training to learn the procedures involved and how to stay safe throughout.
Why Become an Electrician?
Electricians typically get paid very well. The average salary for an electrician is just under $57K and a six-figure income isn’t unusual. Many electricians work as electrical contractors and installation specialists and about 10% of professional electricians are self-employed. If that’s a goal of yours, our team can provide you with the apprenticeship experience you’ll need to make that happen.
This profession is growing at a higher rate than that of most other trades. Job growth is estimated to occur at just under 10% which is nearly twice as fast as the growth for most other trades.
Why Choose 128 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric?
One of the best career paths to become a qualified and talented electrician is to come work for a company like ours. We’ve been
128 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, & Electric has been servicing the city of Lynn, Massachusetts for over 30 years so we know our way around the town’s wiring and systems. We provide comprehensive benefits, an inclusive work environment, ongoing work, and plenty of opportunities for professional advancement.
Our electricians stand tall among the best and the brightest.If a career as an electrician appeals to you, submit your application to find out if we’re a match!
