Electricians are responsible for installing, repairing and maintaining electrical systems in businesses and homes. Perhaps more importantly, they keep buildings safe and ensure people are comfortable – so it’s a very important role.
If you’re looking for a rewarding career with excellent prospects, then training as an electrician could be the best decision you ever make. In this post, we’ll explore the benefits of being an electrician and how you can become one.
Let’s dive in.
Why Become An Electrician?
There are many reasons to become an electrician, including career stability, progression and earning prospects.
Rewarding
Electricians have an enriching career because they’re responsible for helping people stay safe and comfortable in their homes and businesses, which is very fulfilling.
Prospects
With proper training and experience, you can work for some of the biggest companies in the world or even start your own business. We’ll go into more prospects later, but for now, just know that they do exist!
Demand
Finally, electricians are in high demand – so you’ll always have plenty of work to keep you busy. With smart technology taking over and more people interested in electric vehicles, electricians have a very good future.
A Day In The Life Of An Electrician
Perhaps one of the most significant advantages of becoming an electrician is the flexibility you’ll enjoy. If you’re the type of person that dreads sitting at the same desk every day, then this career might be ideal for you.
As with most skilled tradespeople, electricians have diverse duties, and no day is the same. You might spend a few weeks working on-site and then travel around for different projects.
Here are just some of the regular electrician tasks:
- Identifying electrical faults and fixing them
- Inspecting electrical systems to make sure they’re safe
- Laying cables and connecting sockets
- Working with smart technology, including installing new systems for buildings
- Installing electric control panels
- Ensuring electric motors, machinery and transformers work correctly
- Staying up to date with all safety legislation
- Mentoring apprentices
- Working as part of a large team on construction sites
As you can see, the role is highly varied, and it has excellent prospects for those who are willing to work hard. Let’s take a look at the earning potential.
Apprentices: £10,000 to £25,000 during training
Newly Qualified Electricians: £33,495 on average
Experienced Electricians: £42,500 and more
Your salary depends on your qualifications, experience and employer. However, self-employed people set their own rates, and if you decide to expand your business, your earnings can potentially be unlimited.
However, it is essential to mention that starting your own business requires more work and an understanding of emerging technologies and new safety standards for all electricians.
Many people work for employers first and build their skills before running their own business.
What Skills Do Electricians Need?
Electricians have a complex role, and everyone knows how critical electrical systems are for everyday life. However, if these systems malfunction, it can result in power outages, shocks and even fires – so you’ll need a lot of training.
Here are some of the skills electricians possess:
- Attention to detail
- Maths skills
- Commitment
- Computer skills and knowledge
- Analytical thinking
- Experience with technology and electrics
- Ability to work with others
While some people might naturally have these skills, it doesn’t automatically rule you out if you don’t. Like most careers, being an electrician takes a lot of dedication, but if you’re willing to work hard and enhance your skills, anyone can be successful in this career.
Becoming An Electrician
Luckily, you don’t need to go the university route to become an electrician – so if you prefer learning on the job, this career could be perfect for you.
Many electricians start with an apprenticeship or go to college full time for training.
If you decide to go these routes, it’s essential to look for a course accredited by EAL or City and Guilds.
Once you complete this training and pass the industry standard AM2 Assessment, you’ll be able to become employed as an electrician.
Entry Requirements For Electrician Apprenticeships
If you do decide to go the college route, there are plenty of EAL and City And Guilds courses, including:
- City and Guilds Level 2 & 3 in Building Services (Electrical Route)
- EAL Level 2 & 3 Diploma – Electrical Installation
- T Level in Building Services Engineering For Construction
If you get five or more GCSEs at a pass level, you can take an advanced diploma, which will prepare you for the AM2 electrical exam. However, people with 2 GCSE passes can still train to be an electrician, but they’ll start with a Level 2 course.
What About Ongoing Training?
Electricians can work in entry-level roles or choose to specialise in a specific area. If you want to make more money and have diverse career options, it’s always worth exploring electrician training courses to further your qualifications.
Your Prospects
Electricians don’t just have excellent earning potential; they can also benefit from added career security. With all of the smart technology available, electricians will continue to have more work in the future – as you can see from this Showhouse article.
Let’s not forget that there are opportunities for Scottish electricians that want to build a new life. Countries like Australia, New Zealand, and even Canada usually need more electrical professionals, so if you’re interested in moving to a different country, this career could get you there!
Career Development
There are plenty of opportunities to develop your career, including specialising in commercial or domestic work and advancing to supervisory roles. If you work hard and devote yourself to professional development, it’s possible to become a Master Electrician.
Final Thoughts
Being an electrician assures plenty of career prospects, and it’s a highly specialised role. At the Skills Training Group, we offer a range of courses for beginners to develop a foundational knowledge of electronics and specialist courses for experienced professionals.
All of our courses are fully accredited by LCL Awards and City & Guilds. We also have a dedicated support team and fully qualified instructors, so please don’t hesitate to contact us if you’d like to know more.
