Making an Electrician Your Career of Choice

At some time in your life, you will need to choose a career. There are so many options that you can choose from. Whether you want good pay, true joy in your job, satisfaction of a job well done each day, or some combination of the above, it is an important decision that you need to make that affects the rest of your lives. An electrician may be a good option for you, but there are several steps that you need to go through to reach your goal.

If you desire to become an electrician, you must be at least 18 years old and have finished high school with either a diploma or an equivalency. Your high school training must include at least one year in algebra and you must be in good shape physically.

When you are in the process of deciding what direction you want to go as an electrician you need to decide whether you want to practice general electrical work or specialize in a certain field. Once you have made this decision, you need to join a local apprenticeship program. This will help you learn how to get into a good program for both class work and training while you are on the job. This apprenticeship takes between four and six years.

Next, you need to enter a training program so that you can begin the class work that will put you on a fast track to your dreams, which is often paid for by the union. This is a good time to join the apprenticeship through your local IBEW so that you can get some on-the-job training. Doing this will also help you get some training to help you keep up with the new technologies that are always changing.

Once you have completed all your schooling and have finished your apprenticeship, you are able to pursue your license. The fees and requirements vary by state so check with your local union to find out what you need. If you desire to own your own electrician business or be in management, a second license may be required.

If you desire to pursue this career path, you should expect to make between $20.00 to $25.00 an hour, depending on where you live and your experience. This results in a comfortable lifestyle in most sections of the country. If you are a part of a union, you may be rewarded by them if you stay in the organization.

As long as there are new homes and businesses being built as well as older homes that need updating on a continual basis, the demand for an electrician will continue and your job will be secure. If you are considering this occupation, check with your local IBEW to see what they recommend that your first step be.