June 23

Helpful Guide for Picking an Electrician School

Last Updated on July 19, 2023

Have you been contemplating a career in the electrical trade? If so, we can assist with this helpful guide for picking an electrician school. Secondary-education in this field can play a vital role in shaping your career path. Many of these schools offer programs geared towards prepping students for the challenges and opportunities of the industry. Some of whom go on toward much success by becoming master electricians and starting their own businesses. Aside from typical in-class learning, others build their skillset through apprenticeship programs. Let’s dive into the topic and discuss why an electrician trade school is an ideal place to kick-start your journey.

The Journey from High School Diploma to Master Electrician

The journey to becoming a master electrician involves various stages, each with a unique set of requirements. Becoming one typically starts with a high school diploma or its equivalent. A background in mathematics and science is highly beneficial because both give you an edge when dealing with complex electrical systems. Then after high school, the next step is often enrolling in an electrician trade school.

From there, you become an apprentice in the field. After completing the necessary hours of practical work and passing the journeyman electrician exam you become just that, a journeyman electrician. Master electricians, the highest level in the field, require further experience and another round of examinations.

Electrician schools provide a comprehensive training program that combines both classroom instruction with hands-on practical experience. Aspiring electricians learn electrical theory, get familiar with electrical systems, and master electrical wiring practices. But more than that, these schools offer an essential stepping stone – the electrician apprenticeship!

An electrician apprenticeship is a structured training program where you would work under the supervision of one or more experienced electricians. During this on-the-job training, you apply classroom learning to real-world electrical problems, further cementing your growing understanding of electrical systems.

An In-depth Look at Electrician Trade Schools

Trade schools form an integral part of the journey to become an electrician. For starters, these schools offer a more focused approach to education than traditional colleges. They emphasize hands-on training and prepare students for specific trades, with an emphasis on specific. This factor makes them a preferred choice for many aspiring electricians. Within their structured programs, students are equipped with the skills needed to install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in a variety of settings, such as residential or commercial. Students also develop a strong foundation in electrical theory, safety procedures, and technical skills. You’ll even explore more specific topics within the electrical industry, electrical controls, circuit breakers, lighting systems, and the National Electrical Code. Furthermore, electrical trade schools tend to be more affordable and take less time to complete than a traditional four-year degree.

From understanding electrical theory to gaining hands-on experience with electrical wiring, these schools provide a comprehensive education, and at a cheaper expense. What’s not to appreciate?

Electrician Schools and Financial Aid

One of the key concerns for many aspiring electricians like yourself is the cost of attending a trade school. According to at least one stat, $28,400 was the average debt for a bachelor’s degree back in 2020. In fact, less than 20% of people can even complete college without having to obtain a loan. By all available metrics, these numbers aren’t improving. However, you should remember that various forms of financial aid are available to help offset these costs. Scholarships, grants, and student loans can make your education more affordable, enabling you to focus more on your electrician training and less on financial worries.

Moreover, keep in mind that trade schools are often cheaper than their traditional four-year counterparts. Oftentimes students enrolled at 2-year vocational schools graduate with only an average of $10,000 in debt.

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Why an Electrician Trade School? infographic

How to Find Electrician Schools and Programs

With various options for electrician training available, it’s important to research and find electrician schools and programs that best suit your career goals. Prospective students should consider factors such as the curriculum, cost, duration, whether the program is on-campus or online, and any additional benefits like career placement services or financial aid.

Seeking advice from experienced electricians, connecting with professional organizations, or consulting with local contractors can also provide you with valuable insight.

Electrician Programs: Degree vs. Certificate

Electrician programs are offered at various levels, from certificate programs at trade schools to associate and bachelor’s degrees in electrical technology or electrical engineering at colleges. Each program offers benefits, but which is the best choice depends on your career goals.

A certificate program from a trade school can get you started in the field quickly, with a strong focus on practical skills. An associate degree offers a more in-depth study of electrical technology, including more advanced concepts in electrical systems. Likewise, a bachelor’s degree provides the most comprehensive education, including elements of electrical engineering.

Electrician Training Online: A Viable Option?

In recent years, online electrician schools have emerged as a viable option for those seeking to join the trade. These schools offer the convenience of studying from anywhere, making them an excellent choice for those juggling other responsibilities.

While online programs can effectively teach electrical theory and the principles of electrical systems, they can’t provide the hands-on experience that in-person training or an apprenticeship can. Therefore, if you’re considering an online program, look for one that includes an in-person practicum or internship component.

An In-depth Look at Electrician Apprenticeships

At an electrician trade school, programs typically include classroom instruction and practical training. You can expect even more hands-on training when you enroll in an apprenticeship. Not only that, but you’ll be paid while you learn. Then there are all the connections you will be making with journeymen and masters during the lessons. These relationships will be a great way to form potential business partnerships and gain valuable wisdom about the industry. For all the benefits these programs offer, they tend to be very competitive. Keep that in mind when applying. And you should also know that apprenticeships often last between 4 and 5 years. They’re a commitment, but a worthwhile commitment!

The Electrical Training Alliance (ETA), a partnership between the IBEW and the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA), oversees apprenticeship programs. When you join an IBEW apprenticeship program, you’re enrolled in the ETA, become an IBEW member, and get to work for a NECA contractor. Aside from this organization, there are other union programs available for those embarking on apprenticeships programs.

Advancing Your Career: Journeyman to Master Electrician

Once you’ve completed your apprenticeship training and earned your journeyman license, the next step on your career path is to become a master electrician. Master electricians have a deeper understanding of the trade along with extensive knowledge of many electrical systems. They can take on more complex tasks, including inspecting and signing off on electrical work, supervising journeymen electricians, and running their own business as electrical contractors. To obtain a master electrician license, electricians must meet additional experience requirements and pass a comprehensive exam.

Electrician Training for Specialized Roles

While the path to becoming a residential electrician or commercial electrician is relatively straightforward, aspiring electricians can also explore specialized training for roles that deal with unique electrical systems. For instance, some electricians specialize in designing and maintaining security systems or lighting systems. Others might focus on specific sectors like industrial settings with complex electrical equipment or construction sites where they would be responsible for setting up new electrical works.

Electrician Trade School Vs. Apprenticeship: Pros and Cons

There are two choices before you, but only one will prove best for kickstarting your electrician career. The critical decision is whether you should enroll in an electrician trade school or immediately start an apprenticeship? Both routes offer their own unique benefits and challenges. Let’s dive into the pros and cons of each.

Electrician Trade School

Pros

  1. Structured Curriculum: Electrician trade schools provide a structured curriculum that includes classroom instruction on electrical theory, wiring, and safety practices. This formal training provides a solid theoretical foundation before you start working on real electrical systems.

  2. Shorter Duration: Generally, trade school programs take less time to complete than apprenticeships. This allows you to enter the workforce quicker.

  3. Career Services: Many trade schools offer career services, helping students find employment after graduation. Some schools have partnerships with local electrical contractors who are keen to hire their particular graduates.

  4. Financial Aid: Trade schools often have financial aid options available, making affordability easier for all students.

Cons

  1. Cost: Electrician trade school programs can be expensive, particularly when compared to apprenticeships which usually pay you while you learn.

  2. Less Hands-On Experience: While trade schools do provide practical training, the amount of hands-on experience is often less compared to an apprenticeship.

Electrician Trade School Pros/Cons infographic

Apprenticeship

Pros

  1. Paid Training: In an apprenticeship, you earn while you learn. This means you’ll be paid for the work you do as you learn the trade.

  2. Real-World Experience: Apprentices spend most of their time doing hands-on work, offering invaluable real-world experience. This can provide a more thorough understanding of the trade than classroom learning alone.

  3. Mentorship: Apprentices work closely with master electricians or journeyman electricians who can provide mentorship and share knowledge from their own experiences.

Cons

  1. Longer Commitment: Apprenticeships usually last 4 to 5 years, longer than most trade school programs.

  2. Competitive: Securing an apprenticeship can be competitive, as there are often more applicants than available positions.

  3. Varied Quality of Training: The quality of training can vary greatly depending on the master electrician you’re working under.

Apprenticeship Pros/Cons infographic

The Scope of Electrician Jobs

Electrician jobs are not a one-size-fits-all. The field of electrical work is wide, with various specializations offering different career paths. From residential electrician roles that deal primarily with home electrical systems to commercial electricians who handle larger, more complex business settings – the possibilities are extensive. If you decide to acquire the role of a master electrician, you will be able to can take on larger projects and even supervise a team of other electricians.

An electrician’s job also involves working with a broad range of electrical equipment, including lighting systems, security systems, and electronic equipment. Thus, electrician training from a reputable electrician trade school can open doors to a wide array of opportunities in the job market. The more experience and knowledge you possess, the greater your odds of landing a great job, and of being able to begin your own successful business.

The Perks of Becoming a Licensed Electrician

The path to becoming a licensed electrician is challenging, but comes with a variety of perks. Once you become an electrician, you can take on a variety of electrician jobs, enjoy a stable career path, and earn a significantly high salary. According to the National Electrical Contractors Association, experienced electricians can even break into the six-figure salary bracket.

Another exciting aspect of being a licensed electrician is the chance to start your own business. As an electrical contractor, you can offer services to residential, commercial, or industrial customers. The potential for growth and profit in running your own electrical contractor business is important to consider.

Master Electricians: The Pinnacle of the Profession

In the world of electricians, the title of master electrician is highly coveted. This title represents the pinnacle of the profession, reflecting a high degree of skill, experience, and competence. Master electricians have undergone rigorous electrician training, accrued years of on-the-job training, and passed a comprehensive exam.

Master electricians are not only qualified to work on all types of electrical systems, they can also supervise other electricians, inspect installations, and even pull permits for electrical work. As such, they command higher salaries and enjoy greater job opportunities.

The Path to Self-Employment: Starting Your Own Business

Once you’ve reached the status of a master electrician, you may consider branching out to start your own business. Operating as an independent electrical contractor can be rewarding but also involves additional responsibilities and risks.

To succeed, you need to maintain an up-to-date knowledge of the National Electrical Code and adhere to all safety procedures. You must also manage the many facets of your business: accounting, marketing, client relations, plus hiring and managing other electricians. Despite these challenges, owning your own business can significantly increase your income potential and offers the freedom to control your workload and choose your projects.

Some independent electricians expand their company’s capability by becoming mobile. And they don’t just employ one work truck, but multiple work vehicles to expand outreach and service more clients. Some opt for pickup trucks to use for work, but then there are entrepreneurs who convert ambulances for work. Ambulances come with a number of amenities such as multiple built-in electrical outlets and plenty of storage space.

Starting Your Own Business infographic

Continuous Learning and Advancement

The field of electrical technology is continuously evolving. That means electricians must engage in ongoing learning to stay updated on these latest developments. Advanced training can cover a variety of topics such as renewable energy systems, advanced electrical controls, or high-voltage systems.

Earning specialty certifications or attending workshops and training sessions provided by national organizations like the National Electrical Contractors Association can also enhance your skills and marketability.

Becoming an Electrician: Is it Worth It?

If you’re wondering whether or not becoming an electrician is worth the investment, then rest assured, the journey will be worth every second and every dollar. Becoming an electrician does require significant investment to start in terms of time, effort, and money. However, the rewards can be substantial. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics is predicting a growth rate of 7% for those in the electrical industry between 2021 and 2031. Electricians already earn competitive salaries, with the average salary increasing significantly for journeyman and master electricians.

Moreover, there is a steady demand for electricians in various industries, making it a stable career choice. Whether working in residential, commercial, or industrial settings, electricians play a crucial role in maintaining and repairing electrical systems, making their skills invaluable in the modern age.

If you enjoy problem-solving, continuous learning, and hands-on practicality, there’s not much you won’t find in this role.

FAQs

What is the best degree for an electrician?

The best degree for an aspiring electrician largely depends on their individual career goals. For those looking to quickly enter the workforce with hands-on skills, a certificate from an electrician trade school could be a good choice. For those aiming for more advanced roles in the future or wish to specialize in certain areas of electrical technology, an associate or bachelor’s degree in electrical technology or electrical engineering is more appropriate. However, and this is crucial, be sure to remember that along with academic training, on-the-job experience in this field is indispensable .

Do electricians make 6 figures?

While it’s possible for electricians, especially master electricians and independent electrical contractors, to earn six-figure incomes, it largely depends on factors like geographical location, specialization, years of experience, and the amount of work undertaken. Industrial electricians and those working in areas with high demand for electrical work often earn higher wages.

How long does it take to become an electrician?

The journey to becoming a licensed electrician can take anywhere from 4 to 6 years. This includes time spent in a trade school or electrician program (typically 1-2 years), followed by an apprenticeship period, which can last 3-5 years. After successfully completing an apprenticeship, electricians can then apply for a journeyman license. Master electrician status usually requires additional years of experience and the successful completion of another exam process.

What type of electrician makes the most money?

Among the different types of electricians, those specialized in industrial environments often earn the highest wages, given the complexity and scale of industrial electrical systems. However, master electricians, who oversee projects, manage journeyman electricians, and run their own businesses, also have high earning potential. Independent electrical contractors, especially those who have built a solid reputation and client base, can earn a pretty hefty income too.

What is the shortest time to become an electrician?

Aspiring electricians have the choice of jumping right into a trade school program instead of opting for an apprenticeship. The latter requires more time, usually more than four years. On the other hand, with an electrician trade school you should expect to spend four years or less learning both in the classroom and gaining hands-on knowledge.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the choice between an electrician trade school and an apprenticeship will depend on your individual preferences, career goals, and financial situation. Rest assured, both paths offer valuable learning experiences and can lead to a rewarding career in the trade.

The road to a becoming electrician is paved with challenges and learning opportunities, beginning with a high school diploma, and going through intensive training at electrician trade schools. All of that culminates in you earning the title master electrician. With determination, perspective and the right training, you can reach this point and find your own success.

Feel free to consult this guide as needed, and also consider your other resources, like the U.S. Department of Labor’s Apprenticeship Program or the U.S. Department of Education’s resources on career and technical education. These are helpful places to start when you’re seeking more information on what programs are available le and where. These are useful whether you’re an employer our seeking employment.

On the other hand, if you’re an electrician looking to take your trade on the road, then take a look at the various automotive trucks and ambulances we have on sale. Used, affordable, and the perfect municipal item to build up your company!


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