Some possible jobs within this career area are:
If you select a career training program, you’ll receive education as well as certification, or preparation for a certification exam. Depending on the career path you select, you might need a state, county or city license to practice. Cosmetologists, for example, must keep their license active, just like massage therapists or other fields. You also could benefit by occasionally returning to training to stay abreast of new technologies, techniques and skills. This is particularly true for air conditioning technicians, electricians and construction workers.
Skilled trades are always going to be in demand. Some fields are in consistent growth or flux, particularly those areas that are tied toward technology. For example, the increased interest in solar energy means that solar workers are going to be in demand, and existing workers will need training on incorporating solar technology into their daily lives. Many workers in these fields are self-employed or work on contract. Because of this, it’s recommended that you join unions or other professional associations so you can stay up to date on trends, laws and development in the industry.
Skilled tradesmen can get their certification or license in as little as six months, or as long as a year. Many programs last between six months and a year – be sure to ask your chosen school how long the program can take, and whether they offer a job placement or referral service.
How to Become an Electrician
An electrician installs and maintains power and electrical systems in a wide variety of areas such as homes, businesses, and factories. In your electrical career you will also be able to install and maintain the control equipment and wiring as well as machines and electrical equipment in virtually any type of business.
Many electricians begin their training in an apprenticeship program which typically lasts four years. Each year of the apprenticeship will include a minimum of 2000 hours of paid on-the-job training as well as at least 144 hours of classroom instruction. On the job, an apprentice works under the supervision of an experienced electrician performing tasks that are progressively more complicated. Classroom instruction will include training in installing and maintaining electrical systems, electrical theory, blueprint reading, mathematics, electrical safety, and electrical code rules.
Because in most states electricians are required to be licensed, once you become an electrician you will need to continue your education with classes that will keep your knowledge up to date as the National Electrical Code changes. As alternative energy systems such as wind energy and solar energy become more prevalent you will need to further your education in these areas as well. You can also take classes to become an independent contractor in your electrical career.
Electrician Salaries
In 2009 the median annual electrician salary was $47,180. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, electricians in key industries made considerably more:
- Motion Picture and Video Industries $75,550
- Natural Gas Distribution $70,440
- Services to Buildings and Dwellings $66,570
- Pipeline Transportation of Natural Gas $63,920
(Salary data retrieved 6/27/11)
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