If you’ve always been interested in the way electrical systems work and want to make a profession out of repairing electrical devices and establishing safe connections for homes and businesses, you may want to consider becoming a licensed electrician. By the year 2024, the amount of electricians in the U.S. is expected to increase by more than 15%, and you could be one of the professionals in this group. The necessary tasks for completing your certification will vary depending on the city and state you live in. however, it’s best to be aware of some general guidelines to help get you started on your new career path.
Some states require that you work in a supervised environment for about five years to complete 8,000 of hands-on experience. You must also have 180 hours of classroom instruction for every year that you’re in training. You can do this by participating in an apprenticeship, where you receive some of your instruction in a classroom and learn electrician skills with a paid, full-time job in which you work with an electrical contractor.
You can also enroll in a technical school and complete a certificate of competency or an associate’s degree in electrical systems technology before you can qualify for an entry-level job. During your classroom instruction, you’ll learn about aspects of science and technology that will help you provide the best services to clients.
In addition to learning about technology, you’ll also have to take several math courses and learn CPR and First Aid. This is necessary for successfully measuring wires and outlets and can help you remain safe or safe others in electrical emergencies. You’ll learn the fundamentals of residential and commercial wiring as well, since the methods will differ based on the way the rooms in a building are constructed. It’s essential to know how to wire lighting and appliances so the wires are not exposed and the inhabitants of the building are safe from electrical fire and injuries.
Once you receive the education you need, you’ll have the skills and confidence to work with an electrical contractor in your city to get the experience you need. After working for a few years in this capacity, you’ll be qualified to work alone, hire a team of your own or open your own electrical contracting business.
When you’re ready to work as a licensed electrician, it’s essential market your skills and abilities so that local customers will know how to get in touch with you. When you’re working as an apprentice, make sure you’re paying attention to details and interacting with customers to make a good impression. You can also ask your contractor to give you a favorable recommendation when you’re ready to work on your own with another company. Of course, you may also be asked to work at the company where you completed your apprenticeship.
Just as customers will search for you to find out more about your electrical wiring services, you can also search online to find the best electrician education programs for you. You can read reviews from former and current students or get referrals for friends and family to find the electrician program that works best for you.
