If you have a knack for problem-solving and need hands-on work to feel productive, then a career as an electrician might be a good fit for you. Electricians are skilled tradespeople who specialize in installing, maintaining and repairing electrical wiring, fixtures, and appliances. They use a variety of tools and follow strict safety regulations to ensure electrical systems are working properly and safely.
Electricians typically earn a high school diploma and complete an apprenticeship visit this page program to acquire the necessary skills for this career. This combines classroom education with on-the-job training and often takes 4-5 years to complete. You can also choose to attend a vocational school, which provides more in-depth technical instruction and typically takes two years to complete.
Once you’ve acquired the required skills, there are several opportunities to find a job as an electrician. Large commercial and industrial companies will often hire these professionals to troubleshoot electrical problems and repair or upgrade their machinery and other equipment. Some electricians focus on residential and other consumer services, while others are specialized in power plant work or specific types of manufacturing systems.
The National Electrical Code (NEC) is the set of rules and regulations that electricians must follow to ensure their work meets relevant standards. This code receives regular updates, so it’s important to remain aware of the latest changes and adapt accordingly. You can also gain a competitive edge by studying additional industry-specific training materials and continuing to expand your technical knowledge base on new techniques or methods.
Most electricians work in the field, so it’s common to travel between jobs and spend time away from home. This can be difficult if you have children or other commitments at home, but it’s a necessary part of the job if you want to advance in this field. However, some electricians prefer to be based in one location and specialize in maintenance and service calls, which can be less hectic than field work.
Before you hire an electrician, make sure they’re licensed and insured. You should be able to find this information easily on their website, which should include all of the pertinent certifications and credentials. If you can’t locate this information or it’s not clearly displayed, Mock suggests that this could be a red flag that their business is not well-run.
It’s also a good idea to ask an electrician about their experience in your particular type of project or building. A professional who’s been around for a while will have a lot of valuable expertise to share with you. You may even be able to learn some tips that will save you money in the long run. Lastly, be sure to check that their contact information is easy to find. Ideally, you should be able to get in touch with them with one or two clicks on their website. This will help you avoid any stress or confusion if something goes wrong in the future and you need to call them back.