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Careers/Skilled Trades/Electrician

Electrician

Skilled Trades

Try this career

Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical power, communications, lighting, and control systems in homes, businesses, and factories.

Education

Apprenticeship (4-5 years) or trade school

Experiences

Coming soon

Why this career matters

Skilled electricians are in high demand, and that demand is accelerating as buildings get smarter and electric vehicles proliferate. It's a career you can start without college debt, with real earning potential as you gain experience.

What you actually do

1
Read blueprints and technical diagrams
2
Install and maintain wiring, control, and lighting systems
3
Inspect electrical components for safety
4
Troubleshoot and repair electrical problems
5
Follow National Electrical Code and local regulations
6
Test circuits using specialized equipment

A day in the life

You might start the day at a construction site reading blueprints, then spend the morning running wire through walls. After lunch, you could troubleshoot a circuit breaker issue at a commercial building. Every job is different, from new construction to emergency repairs.

Key skills

Observe's own list, not government data.

Problem solvingManual dexterityColor visionPhysical fitnessMath skillsSafety awareness

Work environment

Construction sitesHomesCommercial buildingsOutdoorsPhysical workSome travel

Related careers

Observe's own list, not government data.

HVAC TechnicianPlumberConstruction ManagerSolar Panel Installer

Curious about being a electrician?

The best way to know is to experience it. Shadow a real professional and see if it's right for you.

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