How to Become an Electrician

Apprenticeships are a sure-fire method to becoming an electrician with several apprenticeship options available that train individuals in the different avenues of the role of electrician and the different specialities available. Apprenticeships available are Electrotechnology Systems Electrician or Engineering in Electrical/Electronic Trade with the entry requirement varying between the different courses.

Of course, training to be an electrician is not simply a matter of trailing along behind a qualified electrician but a blend of on and off the job training. This off the job training involves completing coursework through Registered Training Organisations such as TAFE.

An electrician's apprenticeship will last from between three and five years and will involve all necessary training for the daily duties and projects that an electrician would be involved in including connecting wires, test circuits and use of blueprints. Also involved in an electricians apprenticeships are education on electrical safety procedures, mathematics and engineering basics.

Once an apprenticeship is complete, there is a level of relevant practical experience that needs to be completed with the next logical career step being a move towards full electricians licence.

As opposed to completing an electrician apprenticeship program, those wishing to become an electrician can opt to assist an electrician while completing theory course work by correspondence.

At the completion of either method, the student will need to complete and pass a licensing exam that tests their knowledge on topics ranging from federal and state safety codes and basic electrician practices in order to become a licensed electrician.

Of course, passing your electricians licence does not have to be the end of the learning process with additional courses available to become a specialist on telephone lines, computer lines, and other types of special wiring.

Types of Electricians

When choosing a career as an electrician, there are specialisations that you can opt to focus on with several different fields of electricians available.

Construction electrician - works on buildings and projects under construction to install electrical systems. This position will greatly involve reading blueprints use of electrical measuring devices, and understanding the complete finished projected building.

Maintenance electrician - generally works within in residences or factories for the safety and maintenance of existing electrical systems.

The choice of becoming an electrician as a long term career can be highly advisable for job security as it is one of the strongest trade fields with growing demand, especially for those with additional qualifications. Furthermore, those with high levels of experience can start their own business.