A skilled electrician can work in a variety of settings. He or she may work on power lines outside of buildings, install lighting systems in residential and commercial settings, or repair and maintain electrical wiring systems in hospitals, schools, factories, and other large structures. Many states require electricians to have a license and certification. To obtain one, aspiring electricians typically complete a combination of education and on-the-job training through an apprenticeship. Many vocational schools offer career diplomas in electrical technology, and some four-year colleges have bachelor’s degrees in electrical engineering or technology.
Safety is a top priority for electricians, who adhere to strict protocols when working with electricity. This ensures that they protect themselves and their customers from electrical shock, fire, or other hazards. Electricians also use their knowledge of codes and regulations to ensure that the work they do is up to code and safe for everyone involved.
As a rule, Electrician must check for live wires every time they work on a circuit. This is particularly important when dealing with older wiring that may be unsafe or damaged. It is easy to miss a wire that is still charged if you are tired or distracted, and it can be deadly to touch an exposed circuit.
Some electricians specialize in certain fields, such as linemen, who work on power lines at higher voltages, or inside wiremen, who install the lower-voltage wiring used by businesses and homes. Others focus on specific types of installations, such as solar energy or voice-data-video (VDV). Because of the rapidly evolving nature of the industry, electricians must continually update their skills to keep up with new techniques and technologies.
Because the work can be physically demanding, electricians need to be in good physical shape. They must be able to climb ladders, lift heavy equipment, and stand for long periods of time while working on a project. In addition, electricians often need to travel between job sites, and some locations may be a significant distance from their home.
The salary for an electrician depends on the region in which they work and their level of experience. In general, electricians in the Midwest earn the highest wages, followed by those in the Northeast and the South. Salaries are lower in the West, but are still competitive with other trades.
People who are interested in becoming electricians should talk to other professionals about the career and shadow them if possible to get an idea of what the work is like. They should also consider if it is something they can see themselves doing for the long haul—it’s not uncommon for an electrician to spend 40 or more years in the field. And finally, those who want to become licensed electricians should contact local trade schools or unions to find out about apprenticeship opportunities. They can then begin the journey toward a rewarding career in the electrical industry.