If you like to work with electricity, choosing to become an electrician can be a good career for you. There are many things you must do to become an electrician, however, three of which are listed below. You can then get started working in this exciting career.
Attend Electrical Trade School
Find a trade school in your area like HVAC Technical Institute. An electrical trade school focuses teaching you everything you need to know on how to become an electrician. You will learn the basics, such as wiring a home, installing new electrician sockets, replacing circuit breakers, and much more. You will also learn about being safe working with electricity and electrical theory.
You should be able to find trade schools in your area. How long you have to take classes will depend on the school. You also need to ensure you know if there are certain hours required if you want to become certified. This way you know you will start out on the right path.
Work With an Apprentice
Once you finish trade school, look for an apprentice you can work with. This is a great way to get started in this field. There are likely many apprentice jobs in your area, but these jobs can go quickly. Because of this, apply for as many as you can. You can look online, through newspaper ads, or contact the Department of Labor for your area to find apprenticeships.
In some cases, you will be tested to ensure that you know the basics of electricity. You will also have to interview with the electrician before they hire you. If you go to trade school, you should have no problem with any test given to you, and trade school will look great on your resume.
Working with an apprentice will allow you to get on-the-job training, which is sometimes the best way to learn how to become an electrician.
Get Certified or Licensed
Depending on the state that you live in you may have to get certified or licensed before you can become an electrician. This certification or license offers proof to customers that you will know how to do the job they are hiring you to do.
Contact your local municipality or state to learn if you need to become certified or licensed. Even if you do not have to become certified or licensed, it can be beneficial for you to do so. In order to obtain your certification or license, you will take a written test in most cases. This exam will include things like you know a variety of electrical concepts, know the building codes and local laws for your state, and that you know the safety practices you have to follow.
Talk with a few electricians in your area to get more tips on how to get started in this career.