5 answers
meriah
Student
Terre Haute, Indiana
1
Question
Asked
1016 views
how to become an electrician and best route to get there
I currently want to become an electrician but want to make sure it's right for me. I've heard going to trade school is a good option but the better option is to join the union. what's your opinion? I am a mother and want to pick a job with a good living for my daughter and me. Can you tell me if you're doing well on your pay after the apprenticeship, and you do get paid while apprenticeship right? I just don't want to make a bad decision
Login to comment
5 answers
Alexandra Hickey
Industrial Electrician
4
Answers
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Updated
Alexandra’s Answer
Hi! I’m a female electrician, working in the industrial sector, so I work as one in a factory keeping the lines running to make product. I personally went to trade school, and I worked part time or nights while doing so to pay my bills. It was rough but trade school is usually only 2 years and it flew by. I liked my trade school experience, and I do really like that I have an Associate’s degree that I can build on later if I want to. That’s a big key difference. Downside is that school costs money, but look for loans, grants, scholarships, or work reimbursements and usually the school can help you look/apply for them too. You’ll make enough money (especially in the industrial sector) to pay off any loans if you take on any but try to keep them to a minimum anyways. Benefits to an apprenticeship/union route is that you’ll get paid right away and costs are minimal. However, you’re usually also working for them AND taking classes. So either way, the time commitment is likely pretty similar, from my understanding. The union is great, pays well and great benefits, but you can also find that with a trade school degree. So the choice is yours, I wouldn’t say one is outright better than the other…whatever may fit your budget, schedule, and other allowances better. It also depends on if you think you want to do construction work or maintenance work (like I do) as an electrician; if construction seems better, I’d say union, but if maintenance seems better to you, then trade school. However, you do get educated in both and can work in both with either option.
As for pay, I would say I’m doing very, very well. I also have full benefits through my company.
Overall, I love my job and being an electrician! I think it was a great choice (it was a career change for me) and I dont regret anything. Please let me know if I can expand on anything or if you have any follow up questions.
As for pay, I would say I’m doing very, very well. I also have full benefits through my company.
Overall, I love my job and being an electrician! I think it was a great choice (it was a career change for me) and I dont regret anything. Please let me know if I can expand on anything or if you have any follow up questions.
Michelle M.
Actress
2205
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Meriah !
In general, I advise the best route to becoming an Electrician would be to enroll in a community college for an Associates Degree in it. You could also go to a vocational school, but I think the college route would prepare you better, provide opportunities while being a student and the chance to meet people in the industry which will be a big help. Also, the Associates Degree would be something that would be valuable for the rest of your life.
Ivy Tech Community College in Terre Haute offers a Major in Electrical Engineering Technology, a program that is relevant for students who want to be electricians. It's a two year study and you'd get your Associates Degree. You could obtain financial Aid and possible scholarships. On campus you would have many supports and they may even have a daycare on site. Visit them as soon as you can to become more informed.
Terre Haute Electrical JATC offers a program that would be good along with an Associates Degree. I have left links to both the college and the JATC for you below. In order to join the union, you would first have to go through the training at JATC. You can very well go to college, train at JATC, then fulfill your apprenticeship requirement while at college. Your possibilities for the apprenticeship may be better through the college. This information needs to be verified by contacting the college and the JATC. When your apprenticeship is completed, it is then that you are eligible to join the union.
Your salary would depend on if you work freelance or for a company or both at the same time. It will depend on if you work in a highly populated area or not, too.
If you want to learn more about whether being an electrician is right for you, schedule an orientation at both the college and the JATC. You can get a first hand look and feel for the education and ask any questions you may have.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
IVY TECH COMMUNITY COLLEGE WEBSITE https://www.ivytech.edu/locations/terre-haute/
THE ELECTRICAL TEHNOLOGY PROGRAM AT IVY TECH COMMUNITY COLLEGE https://www.ivytech.edu/programs/all-academic-programs/school-of-advanced-manufacturing-engineering-applied-science/electrical-engineering-technology/
TERRE HAUTE ELECTRICAL JATC WEBSITE https://thejatc.org/
In general, I advise the best route to becoming an Electrician would be to enroll in a community college for an Associates Degree in it. You could also go to a vocational school, but I think the college route would prepare you better, provide opportunities while being a student and the chance to meet people in the industry which will be a big help. Also, the Associates Degree would be something that would be valuable for the rest of your life.
Ivy Tech Community College in Terre Haute offers a Major in Electrical Engineering Technology, a program that is relevant for students who want to be electricians. It's a two year study and you'd get your Associates Degree. You could obtain financial Aid and possible scholarships. On campus you would have many supports and they may even have a daycare on site. Visit them as soon as you can to become more informed.
Terre Haute Electrical JATC offers a program that would be good along with an Associates Degree. I have left links to both the college and the JATC for you below. In order to join the union, you would first have to go through the training at JATC. You can very well go to college, train at JATC, then fulfill your apprenticeship requirement while at college. Your possibilities for the apprenticeship may be better through the college. This information needs to be verified by contacting the college and the JATC. When your apprenticeship is completed, it is then that you are eligible to join the union.
Your salary would depend on if you work freelance or for a company or both at the same time. It will depend on if you work in a highly populated area or not, too.
If you want to learn more about whether being an electrician is right for you, schedule an orientation at both the college and the JATC. You can get a first hand look and feel for the education and ask any questions you may have.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
Wilson Bailey
Electrician
8
Answers
Salt Lake City, Utah
Updated
Wilson’s Answer
IBEW Union wages:
Terre Haute, IN salary: $86,600.00 Hourly: $43.30 Hourly with benefits package: $66.62
That's what you will get after 4-5 years when you complete your apprenticeship. You will start around half of that as a first year then move up 10% each year until you pass your exams. You will be working full time and going to class at night once a week or online. If you are young I would go with union because the retirement options can build up big time over 20-30 years and the health insurance is top notch. Non union offers more flexibility so you aren't sitting at home if the union doesn't have anything available or is on strike, rare but it happens.
Terre Haute, IN salary: $86,600.00 Hourly: $43.30 Hourly with benefits package: $66.62
That's what you will get after 4-5 years when you complete your apprenticeship. You will start around half of that as a first year then move up 10% each year until you pass your exams. You will be working full time and going to class at night once a week or online. If you are young I would go with union because the retirement options can build up big time over 20-30 years and the health insurance is top notch. Non union offers more flexibility so you aren't sitting at home if the union doesn't have anything available or is on strike, rare but it happens.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian-Nutritionist & Software Developer since 1972 🡆 Optimization Of Human Performance
7220
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Meriah!
How to Become an Electrician
Becoming an electrician is a commendable career choice, especially for someone looking for stable employment and good pay. The path to becoming an electrician typically involves several steps, including education, training, and certification. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the process:
1. Research the Requirements in Your State
Before you begin your journey, it’s essential to understand the specific requirements for electricians in Indiana. Each state has its own licensing requirements, which may include educational prerequisites, apprenticeship hours, and examinations.
2. Choose Your Educational Path
There are generally two main routes to becoming an electrician: attending a trade school or entering an apprenticeship program directly.
Trade School: Enrolling in a trade school can provide you with foundational knowledge about electrical systems, safety protocols, and local codes. Programs typically last from several months to two years and culminate in a certificate or diploma.
Apprenticeship Program: Many electricians choose to enter an apprenticeship program instead of or after attending trade school. Apprenticeships combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction and usually last about four years. You will learn under the supervision of experienced electricians while earning wages.
3. Consider Union Membership
Joining a union can be beneficial for many reasons:
Job Security: Unions often negotiate contracts that provide job security and benefits.
Higher Wages: Union electricians tend to earn higher wages compared to non-union counterparts due to collective bargaining agreements.
Training Opportunities: Unions often offer additional training programs that can enhance your skills.
In Indiana, you might consider joining the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), which provides resources for apprenticeships and job placement.
4. Complete Your Apprenticeship
During your apprenticeship, you will receive hands-on experience while also taking classes related to electrical theory and practices. Yes, apprentices do get paid; however, the pay is typically lower than what fully licensed electricians earn but increases as you progress through your apprenticeship.
5. Obtain Your License
After completing your apprenticeship (which usually requires around 8,000 hours of work experience), you’ll need to pass a licensing exam specific to Indiana’s regulations. This exam will test your knowledge of electrical theory, local codes, and safety practices.
6. Continuing Education
Once licensed, many states require continuing education courses to maintain your license. This ensures that you stay updated on changes in electrical codes and technology.
7. Job Outlook and Salary Expectations
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of May 2023, electricians earned a median annual wage of approximately $60,000 nationally; however, this can vary based on location and experience level. In Indiana specifically, salaries may be slightly lower but still competitive compared to other professions requiring similar levels of training.
The job outlook for electricians is positive; employment is projected to grow by about 8% from 2020 to 2030 due to increased demand for electrical work in residential and commercial settings.
Conclusion
Becoming an electrician can be a rewarding career choice that offers stability and good pay potential for you and your daughter. Whether you choose trade school or an apprenticeship route—potentially through a union—you’ll find opportunities for growth in this field.
Based on these considerations regarding education paths, union membership benefits, salary expectations post-apprenticeship (where you do get paid), I believe pursuing this career could be advantageous for both personal fulfillment and financial stability.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - Provides comprehensive data on job outlooks, salary information, and employment statistics across various occupations including electricians.
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) - Offers resources related to union membership benefits including training programs and job placements specifically tailored for electricians.
National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER) - A leading organization that provides standardized training programs for construction trades including electrical work; it outlines educational pathways available for aspiring electricians.
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|==========================God Bless You, Richly!==========================|
|===========================James Constantine===========================|
|===================THE AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN==================|
|===================Programming For Your Nutrition Education=================|
|============================~ Since 1972!==============================|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
How to Become an Electrician
Becoming an electrician is a commendable career choice, especially for someone looking for stable employment and good pay. The path to becoming an electrician typically involves several steps, including education, training, and certification. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the process:
1. Research the Requirements in Your State
Before you begin your journey, it’s essential to understand the specific requirements for electricians in Indiana. Each state has its own licensing requirements, which may include educational prerequisites, apprenticeship hours, and examinations.
2. Choose Your Educational Path
There are generally two main routes to becoming an electrician: attending a trade school or entering an apprenticeship program directly.
Trade School: Enrolling in a trade school can provide you with foundational knowledge about electrical systems, safety protocols, and local codes. Programs typically last from several months to two years and culminate in a certificate or diploma.
Apprenticeship Program: Many electricians choose to enter an apprenticeship program instead of or after attending trade school. Apprenticeships combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction and usually last about four years. You will learn under the supervision of experienced electricians while earning wages.
3. Consider Union Membership
Joining a union can be beneficial for many reasons:
Job Security: Unions often negotiate contracts that provide job security and benefits.
Higher Wages: Union electricians tend to earn higher wages compared to non-union counterparts due to collective bargaining agreements.
Training Opportunities: Unions often offer additional training programs that can enhance your skills.
In Indiana, you might consider joining the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), which provides resources for apprenticeships and job placement.
4. Complete Your Apprenticeship
During your apprenticeship, you will receive hands-on experience while also taking classes related to electrical theory and practices. Yes, apprentices do get paid; however, the pay is typically lower than what fully licensed electricians earn but increases as you progress through your apprenticeship.
5. Obtain Your License
After completing your apprenticeship (which usually requires around 8,000 hours of work experience), you’ll need to pass a licensing exam specific to Indiana’s regulations. This exam will test your knowledge of electrical theory, local codes, and safety practices.
6. Continuing Education
Once licensed, many states require continuing education courses to maintain your license. This ensures that you stay updated on changes in electrical codes and technology.
7. Job Outlook and Salary Expectations
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of May 2023, electricians earned a median annual wage of approximately $60,000 nationally; however, this can vary based on location and experience level. In Indiana specifically, salaries may be slightly lower but still competitive compared to other professions requiring similar levels of training.
The job outlook for electricians is positive; employment is projected to grow by about 8% from 2020 to 2030 due to increased demand for electrical work in residential and commercial settings.
Conclusion
Becoming an electrician can be a rewarding career choice that offers stability and good pay potential for you and your daughter. Whether you choose trade school or an apprenticeship route—potentially through a union—you’ll find opportunities for growth in this field.
Based on these considerations regarding education paths, union membership benefits, salary expectations post-apprenticeship (where you do get paid), I believe pursuing this career could be advantageous for both personal fulfillment and financial stability.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - Provides comprehensive data on job outlooks, salary information, and employment statistics across various occupations including electricians.
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) - Offers resources related to union membership benefits including training programs and job placements specifically tailored for electricians.
National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER) - A leading organization that provides standardized training programs for construction trades including electrical work; it outlines educational pathways available for aspiring electricians.
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|==========================God Bless You, Richly!==========================|
|===========================James Constantine===========================|
|===================THE AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN==================|
|===================Programming For Your Nutrition Education=================|
|============================~ Since 1972!==============================|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
Steve Orton
Electrical engineering
3
Answers
Augusta, Georgia
Updated
Steve’s Answer
Meriah,
Since you are a mom and need a pay check from the start I would recommend the union , the apprenticeship usually puts you to work and you have to go to school about 2 nights a week and most are about 5 years , I would not worry about a degree right now because that is not what is in demand if you do take classes at the local tech school make sure you can use the credits torwards a degree later.
Since you are a mom and need a pay check from the start I would recommend the union , the apprenticeship usually puts you to work and you have to go to school about 2 nights a week and most are about 5 years , I would not worry about a degree right now because that is not what is in demand if you do take classes at the local tech school make sure you can use the credits torwards a degree later.