If you're looking for a career that provides stability and long-term potential, working as an electrician may be just the thing. In most places, you have to complete specific educational programs and obtain a certain amount of hands-on experience before you can become an electrician. This includes spending several years as an electrician's apprentice. Before you decide whether to become an electrician or not, here's a look at the qualifications you'd have to meet.
Basic Eligibility
Most programs designed for electrician's apprentices require that applicants be at least eighteen. There are a few junior programs available, but most of those only take kids who have reached their seventeenth birthday. You'll likely have to pass a drug test before acceptance as well.
Physical Condition
When you work as an electrician or an electrician's apprentice, you'll find yourself working in some unusual environments. From high platforms to small spaces, you'll need to have the physical conditioning to handle all of it easily. You'll also have to be able to clearly hear, read and write. These skills are vital for communication on the job site as well as recognition of safety warnings and instructions. People who suffer from colorblindness may not be eligible to work as an electrician, because the colors of the wires are a key component of electrical assembly.
Education
In order to apply to an apprenticeship program, you'll typically have to provide a copy of your GED or high school diploma. Some states provide apprenticeship programs for kids who are in their final year of high school, too. In most cases, you'll have to complete a full year of algebra in high school or one semester of it in college before you can qualify. Finally, if you have hands-on work experience with a local electrician, you might be able to have some of these requirements waived based on experience.
Aptitude Test
Before beginning an electrical apprenticeship, you may have to pass an aptitude test that illustrates your basic educational understanding. The test has several sections, including reading comprehension and math. The math section tests your understanding of both mathematical operations and algebra.
Accessibility
To find an apprenticeship you can apply for, you'll have to work with a licensed electrician. Additionally, the program must be sponsored by either a local electrician or electrician's union. Make sure that the apprenticeship you apply for is licensed and recognized.
Commitment
Taking part in an apprenticeship program requires a commitment of several years. Most apprenticeships last between four and five years. You'll have to complete 150 hours in the classroom as well as several thousand hours of practical on-the-job training. You can also complete a vocational training program that would qualify as part of your classroom requirements.
During the time that you are committed to your apprenticeship program, you will typically earn a percentage of what the electrician you're working for earns. While the pay may be lower during your apprenticeship, it opens the door for more earnings when your program is completed. The electrical field is dynamic, so you'll need to be prepared to stay on top of changing trends and requirements, even after you've completed your apprenticeship program. Once you've completed the apprenticeship, it means a commitment to being self-motivated, because you'll likely be in business for yourself as an independent electrician.
Before you make the decision to start an apprenticeship program with your local electrician, it is in your best interest to understand what you're facing. Make sure that you know exactly what will be expected of you and what you need to qualify. With the information here, you can reach out to a local electrician or visit a site like http://hvac-tech.com for more details with the confidence that you understand the basics.
Share15 December 2015
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