Electricians install, maintain and repair electrical wiring, fixtures and equipment to provide power for homes, businesses and other buildings. They work with different electrical systems and tools, and also inspect components like circuit breakers and transformers to ensure they’re functioning properly. This career requires critical thinking skills to troubleshoot and repair malfunctioning electrical devices and appliances.
There are several routes to becoming a licensed electrician visit this website, and the requirements vary by state. Some states require on-the-job training through an apprenticeship, while others only need a high school diploma and the completion of a certificate program at a trade school.
Online vocational schools offer a convenient and flexible option for pursuing a career as an electrician. Penn Foster, for example, offers a comprehensive online electrician course that combines skilled trade lessons with video lectures and quizzes to help students learn the fundamentals of electrical technology. The program is National Electrical Code (NEC) compliant and provides state-specific training to prepare for a career as a licensed electrician.
If you choose to pursue a career as an electrician, you’ll need to complete a trade school program that includes classes in electrical fundamentals, safety protocols and blueprint reading. You’ll also need to pass an exam to become a certified electrician. Some online vocational schools offer programs that can be completed in under a year, making them a convenient and affordable option for getting started on this promising career path.
You can also get started as an electrician by joining a union and entering an apprenticeship. Most of these programs last up to five years and combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction. During this time, you’ll learn the necessary technical information while working under a senior journeyman electrician or master electrician. It’s important to research the apprenticeship requirements in your state before starting this career path.
Once you’ve completed your education and training, you can choose to work as a freelance electrician or join an established company. There are many benefits to being an independent contractor, including the flexibility to set your own schedule and pursue new opportunities as they arise. You can also use your experience as an electrician to start a small business of your own.
Many older homes have faulty or outdated electrical wiring, and it’s a good idea to hire a qualified professional to perform safety upgrades. This can include replacing old knob & tube wiring with modern 100-amp service, adding GFCI outlets throughout your home and upgrading your service to handle all of your appliances at once. Upgrading to 100-amp service is essential for insurance purposes, and it’s a smart way to protect your valuable electronics from power surges. It’s also an easy way to increase your home’s resale value.