How to Become an Electrician

If you are looking for a challenging, rewarding, hands-on career, don't curse the darkness - become an electrician. Here's how.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Take courses in math, science, electronics and mechanical drawing, if offered in high school.
2. Consider taking advantage of military training in the electrical field; many Army and Navy programs in particular offer excellent preparation for aspiring electricians.
3. Contact an organization that sponsors an apprenticeship program, such as The National Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee or the National Electrical Contractors' Association (see necanet.org). Most electricians participate in such programs, which provide at least 144 hours of classroom instruction and 8000 hours of on-the-job training over the course of a 4-5 year apprenticeship.
4. Get your license. Almost all municipalities require electricians to pass a licensing exam that tests their knowledge of electrical theory, the national electrical code, as well as local electronic and building codes.

Tips & Warnings

• Employment opportunities are expected to be excellent for qualified electricians. And at $40 an hour, it's an attractive field to become qualified for.

Who Can Help:

• Earn an Associate's, Bachelor's or Master's Degree from the University of Phoenix
• University of Phoenix, degree Programs to Fit Your Life.