What is it like to be an electrician

I recently hired several electricians for some home projects, and spoke to them about their industry and job. Here's the good and the bad.

Electricians are extremely in demand, and the number of qualified electricians is not enough to meet demand in most areas. This means that companies are hiring electricians, electricians are able to start their own companies after a few years of experience and get a sustainable stream of business, and companies are likely to hire people into apprenticeships and training programs because they need staff. Electricians can normally command a very good salary or hourly rate, especially given the lower educational requirements compared to many other skilled professions such as nurse, paralegal, etc.

Being an electrician is a skilled labor, requiring an understanding of electricity, circuits, various tools and equipment, and building codes. But it's also a manual or physical labor, that involves climbing on ladders, hanging equipment, and swinging a hammer. Much of the work is inside and often but not always in air conditioned/heated areas.

I had one electrician tell me he was glad to be doing electrical work versus construction or auto repair, because it was less physically demanding, safer, in better conditions, and paid better. I had another electrician tell me he was having elbow surgery from a stress injury from hammering wiring into walls, and that he would make sure his son never had to work a job where he swung a hammer. However, this guy was fit and in good shape and otherwise good health, whereas many people working office jobs lead sedentary and obese lifestyles and are in terrible general health.

In short, electricians are paid well and should find work and training opportunities easily, compared to many other jobs. They do a combination of physical and skilled labor. Given the choice between a 4 year college degree in, for example, English or History and the associated student loan debt, or an electrician apprenticeship, I would become an electrician. You will have a higher salary, less debt and time spent not earning money, and a more in-demand job and resume. An electrical or computer engineering degree will give you more opportunities, but will also require more time, work, and money.

Hello Michael: Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical power, communications, lighting, and control systems in homes, businesses, and factories.

Electricians typically do the following:

*Read blueprints or technical diagrams

*Install and maintain wiring, control, and lighting systems

*Inspect electrical components, such as transformers and circuit breakers

*Identify electrical problems using a variety of testing devices

*Repair or replace wiring, equipment, or fixtures using hand tools and power tools

*Follow state and local building regulations based on the National Electrical Code

*Direct and train workers to install, maintain, or repair electrical wiring or equipment

Many electricians work alone, but sometimes they collaborate with others. For example, experienced electricians may work with building engineers and architects to help design electrical systems for new construction. Some electricians may also consult with other construction specialists, such as elevator installers heating and air conditioning workers, to help install or maintain electrical or power systems. At larger companies, electricians are more likely to work as part of a crew; they may direct helpers and apprentices to complete jobs.

How to Become an Electrician

Most electricians learn through an apprenticeship, but some start out by attending a technical school. Most states require electricians to be licensed.

Here are some links to additional information you may find useful.

1) Career Builder - -> https://www.careerbuilder.com/advice/what-can-you-expect-from-a-job-as-an-electrician

2) National Electrical Contractors Association - - > http://www.necanet.org/

3) Home Builders Institute - -> http://www.hbi.org/

I hope this information is helpful in pointing you in the right direction to help you get started on your journey.

Best of Luck to You!