A Career Guide to becoming an Electrician gives you a direct path to success

A Career Guide to becoming an Electrician gives you a direct path to success

If a career in Electrical Technology sparks your interest, there are clear steps for you to take to achieve that career goal. Our easy-to-follow job and self-evaluation points, along with education and training options, map the way toward the future you imagine.

What is the scope of an Electricians’ job responsibilities?

Working in both new construction buildings and existing buildings, electricians install, maintain and repair electrical systems. Maintaining equipment and systems might include identifying, repairing or replacing parts, light fixtures, control systems, motors and other types of electrical equipment.

Electricians read blueprints and electrical system diagrams to locate circuits, outlets and other related equipment. Commonly used tools include conduit benders to run and protect wiring, as well as power and hand tools, such as wire strippers, drills and saws. Troubleshooting tools also include ammeters, voltmeters, thermal scanners and cable testers.

Electricians may work alone or as part of a team, which might include building engineers and architects or heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVACR) specialists.

Electricians typically do the following, as described in the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS):

• Read blueprints or technical diagrams
• Install and maintain wiring, control, and lighting systems
• Inspect electrical components, such as transformers and circuit breakers
• Identify electrical problems using a variety of testing devices
• Repair or replace wiring, equipment, or fixtures using hand tools and power tools
• Follow state and local building regulations based on the National Electrical Code
• Direct and train workers to install, maintain, or repair electrical wiring or equipment

Would I want specialized education and training to get into this field?

 Most electricians hone their trade in long-term apprenticeship programs. Electric Technology programs offered in technical schools give a knowledge and experience boost to those taking an apprenticeship path to career success. Technical programs offer education and training specific to this industry, including electrical theory, blueprint reading, electrical code requirements, soldering and safety practices.

Graduates of these programs usually receive credit toward their apprenticeships. Most states require electricians to pass a test and be licensed. Continuing education courses, related to safety practices, changes to the electrical code and training from manufacturer of specific products may be required to maintain licenses. A high school diploma or equivalent is required to become an electrician.

What do I need to learn to become an Electrician?

 The Electrical Technology certificate and associate degree programs provide you with the knowledge and experience to compete successfully in the career field you have chosen.

Students at Carrington College enjoy a balance of classroom studies and workshop experience that well prepares them for real-world work situations and demands. Teamwork among students is instilled to maximize future work performance and successful integration with co-workers.

Coursework prepares you for jobs as electricians, security and fire alarm system installers, signal and track switch repairers, first-line supervisors of construction trades and extraction workers, as well as other industrial, commercial and residential electrical installation and repair positions.

Electrical Technology program graduates at Carrington College earn a Certificate of Achievement in as few as 10-months or an Associate of Science Degree in as few as 15-months.

Our Electrical Technology program encompasses theories of electrical circuitry and practical applications, installation, operation and maintenance procedures, use of basic tools, effective service reporting, use of critical thinking skills to create and interpret blueprint drawings, appropriate application of the National Electrical Code and proper adherence to national, state and local safety practices for the industry.

What kind of salary can I expect?

The median annual salary for electricians in the Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale area was $48,040. in May 2018, according to the Bureau of Labor statistics: See: https://www.bls.gov/oes/2018/may/oes472111.htm#st. The top 25% electricians enjoyed a salary range of $56,530-$63,780 annually. Salaries are also attractive state-wide where Arizona electricians at the top of their field earn up to $64,750 annually. See: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes472111.htm#st

Well-trained electricians are an asset to any business, private entity or governmental agency needing specialized electrical services. Options for self-employment are also attractive for those with an entrepreneurial spirit. Solid education and training provide the springboard for many avenues to success.

What kind of job growth can I expect?

During 2018-2028 the BLS estimates an average of 94,600 openings for electricians each year. Employment of electricians is projected to grow 10 percent during this decade, faster than the average for all occupations, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Electricians. (See: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/construction-and-extraction/electricians.htm#tab-6 , visited March 4, 2020. “Data reflects a national projected percentage change in employment from 2018-2028 and may not reflect local economic conditions.”)

Many openings occur to replacement workers who leave the labor force to retire or transfer to different occupations.

How do I get started on my career as an Electrician?

 If this career feels like a fit, you are ready for the next step. Carrington College is here to help you get there.

Whether you have a question, need more information or want to chat with an Admissions Advisor about the Electrical Technology program, please call 877-344-3316.