Electricians
Electricians use their skills to install, repair, and maintain electrical systems in homes, businesses, and factories. They also make sure that all electrical work meets local and national safety standards. Electricians can choose to be independent contractors or join a trade union like the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. When working as part of a trade union, electricians pay dues and have their wages determined by collective bargaining instead of being individually contracted.
Most electricians are called journeymen after completing an apprenticeship program that combines paid on-the-job training with related classroom instruction. This apprenticeship typically takes 4-5 years to complete. Journeymen are licensed by the State and must continue their education by taking classes to keep up with changes to the National Electrical Code and other electrical industry developments.
Some electricians specialize in certain areas of the field, such as voice-data-video (VDV) or power generation. Others are trained in advanced systems, such as avionics or transportation equipment. These specialties require specialized knowledge and extensive hands-on experience to install, repair, and maintain.
In general, electricians begin their careers by reading blueprints — technical diagrams that show where circuits, outlets, load centers, and panel boards will go in a building. Next, they follow detailed instructions to cut and install wires, making sure all connections are secure and that each component is properly insulated. Electricians use handtools like conduit benders, screwdrivers, pliers, knives, and hacksaws as well as power tools such as drills and saws to create these connections. They also use ammeters, voltmeters, harmonics testers, and other specialized instruments to test the compatibility and safety of wiring and components.
What Is in Electricians?
Almost every home, office, store, and factory uses an electrical system to run its appliances and machinery. This electrical infrastructure needs to be installed, maintained, and upgraded as necessary. In addition to wiring, a skilled electrician will install and connect lighting fixtures, fire alarms, and power generators. They will make sure all electrical work meets national and local safety codes, including grounding systems and proper insulation.
Maintenance electricians keep existing electrical systems in good working order by repairing or replacing wiring, electrical and electronic devices, and machinery. They perform periodic inspections to ensure that all equipment is safe and operating correctly. When problems are found, they advise management or the appropriate personnel so that repairs can be made before the problem worsens.
Electricians in the armed forces or other government agencies have a unique opportunity to work on a wide range of projects, from installing sound and lighting systems for military aircraft to rewiring naval ships. In this career, you can travel extensively and learn a wide range of new skills. In addition, you can receive training in leadership and teamwork skills that will help prepare you for a management role in the future. Those who wish to enter this career will need a high school diploma or equivalent and a minimum of a four-year postsecondary program. Those who want to pursue an apprenticeship should contact the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers or local chapters of the National Electrical Contractors Association for more information.
