Electricians
Americans rely on electricity for almost every aspect of their lives. Electricity provides lighting, power, air-conditioning, and refrigeration. Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems. Most work in either construction or maintenance.
Electrician Schools
Specifics of the Job
Electricians begin installation work by reviewing blueprints. Blueprints provide information on circuits, outlets, and panel boards. Electricians must also abide by building codes and the National Electric Code when installing systems. Responsibilities include installing conduit pipe or tubing, fastening electrical switches and outlets to walls, running wiring through conduit pipes, and testing all connections. They also handle low volt wiring, such as television cable, telephones, intercoms, computers, or security systems. Maintenance electricians provide periodic inspections to ensure that all electrical systems are performing effectively. Fuses, switches, and circuit breakers are often replaced before major problems occur. Should a system break down, electricians work quickly to make repairs as inconvenient as possible for customers.
Necessary Qualifications
High school courses in mathematics, electricity, science, and shop are extremely beneficial. Most individuals enter an apprenticeship program. In order to be admitted, students must be at least 18 years of age, have a high school diploma or GED, and earn a passing score on a skills test. Apprenticeship programs usually last three to five years. Various organizations and unions sponsor these programs. They consist of 144 hours of classroom instruction and 2,000 hours of on-the-job training. Areas of study include blueprint reading, electronics, mathematics, electrical code requirements, safety, or first aid. Many individuals take specialized courses like welding or fire alarm systems. Individuals, who do not enter an apprenticeship program, are able to learn on–the-job. These individuals assist senior electricians while learning the trade. However, the path to becoming a journeyman is longer. Electricians must obtain a license. Licensure requirements vary by state. However, most states require a passing score on a comprehensive exam.
Earnings and Advancement
Advancement is dependent upon experience. Many electricians become supervisors or superintendents. Some move into inspection work. Others open their own contracting business. Earnings fall between $11.00 and $33.00 an hour. Apprentices usually earn about forty to fifty percent of an experienced electrician’s earnings. As they gain experience, their wages increase. Most work forty hours per week. A few will need to work evening or weekend shifts. Some are expected to be on call. Paid overtime is given to those electricians working more than forty hours. Most are union members.
*This is a summarized article created to allow for a quick career review. For the most accurate and up-to-date information visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor website to learn more about Electricians.
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copyright 2005
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