The skill set that electricians require is essential to the smooth operation of modern life. Due to the risk and technical understanding involved, strict certifications and lengthy training are essential for this career.
Here, we will explore what an electrician is and the critical steps necessary to become a professional electrician.
What does an electrician do?
Electricians are professionals with extensive training in managing a broad range of electrical power-related concerns.
However, Installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical equipment is their primary duty. An electrician may fall into the following groups based on their background and credentials:
Electrician Roles and Specializations
- Journeyman Electricians:They Are basic-level electricians who have completed an apprenticeship and are licensed. They Can work independently but cannot offer training or lead job sites.
- Master Electrician: Applicable after two years of experience. They Can lead jobs, offer training, and direct teams.
- Independent Electrical Contractor: Small business owners hiring teams of electricians. They require insurance and a master electrician or staff.
- Selection of Specializations: Residential electricians Install, repair, and maintain wiring and electrical systems in homes and small apartments.
- Commercial electrician: Handles electrical issues in commercial buildings.
- Industrial electrician: Performs electrical work in extensive facilities with more electrical needs.
How to become an electrician?
To become an electrician, you must do the following:
Get a high school diploma or the equivalent Degree
A high school diploma is required for an electrician’s career. It requires skills in algebra, trigonometry, physics, English, and shop and mechanical drawing classes.
Hence, These skills are essential for determining wiring lengths, calculating electrical currents, and designing electrical systems in buildings and structures.
Join a trade or vocational-technical school.
Attending a trade or vocational-technical school can provide valuable training. It can also help students get certification and job placement in electrical technology.
However, This comprehensive training, whether at a four-year university or a trade school, provides foundational tools and basic electrical principles.
 Similarly, Students can substitute some formal education hours for on-the-job experience, typically 4,000 hours, depending on the school’s program.
Hence, This can give them an edge in applying for apprenticeships.
Apply for an internship.
To become a licensed electrician, one must complete an internship. This can be found through trade schools, unions like the Joint Apprenticeship & Training Committees (JATC), or non-union organizations, such as Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) and Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc.
 Moreover, Each organization offers apprenticeship placement with local employers. Apprentices may be required to complete aptitude tests, job interviews, and drug tests. Joining a union is mandatory for union apprenticeships.
Get Licensed
Every state and even city has different licensing and certification requirements. So, find out what credentials are required to operate in your area.
 If obtaining a license is mandatory in your location, you may also need to pass an electrical exam. This test will measure your understanding of construction codes, safety procedures, and the National Electric Code.
Furthermore, You will also need to provide documentation indicating your internship has ended.
How Much Hours or Years Required to Become an Electrician?
Most states require 4,000 to 10,000 hours of apprenticeship work before applying for electrical licensure, 2,000 hours a year.
However, Classroom training is also required. Journeyman work takes about 5 years, while master electricians require 2 years of experience.
So, Exams are typically 60-120 minutes long, and licensing takes a few days to weeks.
