Are you feeling electrified by the idea of becoming an electrician? With a surge in demand for skilled electrical professionals, it’s no wonder that this career path is sparking interest. But before diving headfirst into the world of circuits and currents, one question nags at your mind.
How long does it take to become an electrician on average? Get ready to flip the switch on curiosity as we shed light on this burning query. Unveil the shocking truth behind the journey toward becoming a skilled spark wizard.
Overview of the Electrician Profession
Electricians are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems. They may work in a variety of settings, including residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
Electricians typically complete an apprenticeship program. This electrician careers training program is for you to gain the skills and knowledge necessary for the job.
The average electrician’s salary is $51,880 per year, with the top 10% of earners making $81,790 or more per year. Electricians typically have good job prospects due to the growing demand for their services. You can find out how to start electrical business here to see if this will work for you.
What Factors Affect How Long It Takes to Become an Electrician?
Several factors can affect how long it takes to become an electrician. Below are the key factors that contribute to the duration of the process:
Level of Experience and Expertise
Becoming an electrician on average takes a commitment of time and dedication. Most programs provide the bulk of the electrician’s learning. This can range from 3 to 5 years. This time may vary, though. This is depending on the level of experience and expertise desired.
Programs may require up to 8,000 hours of on-the-job training combined with related instruction. Electricians who want to provide the highest level of service and expertise typically pursue a 4-year, college-level education.
There are shorter courses in the electrical field, but they may not provide the same level of comprehensive training as traditional apprenticeships. Becoming an electrician takes time, a commitment to learning, and hard work to achieve the desired level of expertise.
The Different Types of Training You Receive
Becoming an electrician is a great career choice, with many paths to success. It typically takes 8-15 years on average to become a journeyman electrician, depending on the type of training you receive.
Training programs involve a combination of on-the-job training and classroom instruction. Below are the most common training grounds:
Community College
It typically takes about two years for a student to complete the coursework necessary for electrician jobs to go through a community college program. Students will enroll in an associate’s degree program in either electrical technology or electrical engineering technology.
They will then learn the basics of wiring, current, and the related elements that are necessary for the job. On average, enrollment in the college and the program will require around 12 to 15 classes.
This is depending on the individual college, and these classes will range from fundamentals to technical instruction. Upon completion of this coursework, the student may need to pass a licensure test to become a certified electrician.
This certification usually requires continuing education or recertification every few years to stay qualified for the job.
Trade Schools
For those wishing to become an electrician, one of the best options is to attend a trade school. Trade school educations are specifically designed for careers in the skilled trades. Courses and hands-on training provide students with the knowledge and skills.
This is to become an electrician quickly and efficiently. This is often a quicker path than taking traditional college courses. Trade schools are a great option for learning the specific trade of an electrician.
Bachelor’s Degree Program
Most programs require several prerequisite courses before students can begin the highly technical classes for an electrical degree. Topics that may be included in a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering include:
- Signal Processing
- Power Systems
- Control Systems
- Digital Signal Processing
- Electrical Circuit Design
These offer a comprehensive overview of electrical engineering and can even lead to a specialization through electives. This period of training includes specialized instruction and hands-on experience usually under the supervision of a qualified electrician.
The Amount of Time You Are Willing to Dedicate
This depends largely on the willingness and passion of the student. Most apprenticeship programs involve on-the-job training and classwork. If an individual has no prior experience in the electrical field, they may find themselves working hard to pick up the basics of electricity and electrical theory.
Yet, for those individuals willing to commit the necessary amount of time and effort to the program, the length of apprenticeship becomes less of an issue. Others may take longer to master the concepts taught.
It builds up the necessary skill set. It is important for those looking to become an electrician to relate the amount of time they are willing to dedicate to the amount of time they can reasonably expect to complete the program.
Licensing Exams and Certification Requirements
There are a few different exams and certification requirements that you’ll need to complete before you can become an electrician. The first is the National Electrical Code (NEC) exam. This tests your knowledge of the National Electrical Code. It is a set of standards that all electricians must follow.
You’ll also need to pass an electrical theory exam, as well as a practical skills exam. Once you’ve passed all of these exams, you’ll be able to apply for your electrician’s license.
Other Considerations for Becoming an Electrician
Electricians need to be physically fit and comfortable working in confined spaces and at heights. They also need to have good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity. Secondly, electricians need to be able to work well under pressure and in high-pressure situations.
They must be able to think quickly and make decisions quickly to avoid potential hazards. Electricians need to be detail-oriented and have excellent problem-solving skills.
Find Out How Long Does It Take To Become an Electrician Today
How long does it take to become an electrician? It doesn’t happen overnight. But, with a combination of classroom instruction and on-the-job training, you can learn the necessary skills to become an electrician and begin your career.
So, what are you waiting for? If you’re ready to start your career in the electrical industry, take the first step today! Research what electrician programs are available to you today!
