My son wants to become an electrician but he doesn’t want to take the traditional route to college. Do you think he should go to trade school? If so, what are some good ones? Also, how long does it take to become a licensed electrician?
Electricians install, repair and maintain electrical systems in homes, businesses, factories and other buildings. They must have excellent critical thinking skills to evaluate and diagnose problems with wiring, switches, outlets, generators and other equipment. They must also be strong and physically capable of working with tools such as pliers, wrenches, wire strippers, screwdrivers and drills.
In addition to their technical knowledge and skill, Electrician must understand the building code requirements in the area in which they work and be familiar with safety procedures. Many states require that electricians obtain a license in order to work in the field. This requires passing an exam that tests the applicant’s understanding of the National Electrical Code, various electrical concepts and safety practices.
To become a licensed electrician, the first step is to earn a high school diploma or equivalent. Some trade schools offer certificate programs that can be completed in as few as four months, while a full associate degree program may take two years to complete. Students must complete classroom and on-the-job training hours in order to be eligible for licensing as a journeyman electrician.
Then, to become a certified electrician in New York, applicants must pass a written and practical examination. The written exam is based on the New York City Electrical Code and the National Electrical Code. The written exam has multiple-choice questions and is administered by an independent testing company.
After completing the required education and training, licensed electricians can choose to work with a larger company or operate independently. In the latter case, they can find work through job boards or networking events. They can also advertise their services through websites like Craigslist and local business directories.
Licensing requirements vary from state to state and from municipality to municipality. In general, however, electricians must have at least a high school diploma and undergo significant training through apprenticeships. Some states even require continuing education to keep up with changes in the National Electrical Code.
The career of an electrician is rewarding and challenging. It is a hands-on job that can be dangerous and requires extensive physical labor. But, if you’re willing to put in the time and effort, becoming a licensed electrician can be very lucrative. In fact, you can even make more money as an independent contractor than if you work for a large corporation. So what are you waiting for? Get started today!