How to become an electrician is a question many high school students ask when they want a career that combines hands-on work, job security, and excellent pay. If you enjoy solving problems, working with your hands, and seeing the results of your efforts in real time, becoming an electrician may be the perfect path for you.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from what electricians do and how to start in high school, to licensing, salaries, and future opportunities.

1. What Does an Electrician Do?

Electricians are skilled tradespeople who specialize in electrical systems. They install, inspect, and maintain electrical components in buildings, machinery, and infrastructure. Their work can range from installing lighting systems in homes to managing large power grids.

Daily Tasks Include:

• Reading blueprints and technical diagrams
• Installing wiring, outlets, circuit breakers, and lighting systems
• Ensuring electrical systems meet safety codes
• Diagnosing and fixing electrical issues
• Collaborating with contractors and engineers
• Performing regular maintenance and upgrades

Electricians are crucial in almost every industry from construction and manufacturing to healthcare and entertainment.

2. Why Choose a Career as an Electrician?

The path of an electrician is ideal for students who want a stable career without the burden of long years in college or student debt. Here are some of the top benefits:

• In-Demand Career: Every building needs power. That means consistent demand.
• Earn While You Learn: Most apprenticeships are paid.
• Shorter Schooling: No need for a 4-year degree.
• Hands-On Work: Perfect for those who prefer working with their hands over sitting at a desk.
• Good Salary: Even entry-level electricians can earn above-average wages.
• Opportunities for Growth: Electricians can become supervisors, inspectors, or start their own business.

3. Types of Electricians

Choosing a specialization can help shape your career goals. Here are some common types:

1. Residential Electricians

Work on electrical systems in homes and apartments. Install lights, outlets, circuit breakers, etc.

2. Commercial Electricians

Work in office buildings, shopping malls, schools, and other commercial spaces. Handle complex wiring systems and large-scale installations.

3. Industrial Electricians

Maintain and install electrical systems in factories and large plants. Often work with heavy machinery.

4. Maintenance Electricians

Inspect and fix electrical systems to prevent outages and safety hazards.

5. Outside Linemen

Install and maintain high-voltage power lines, transformers, and other equipment used in energy distribution.

6. Construction Electricians

Work on new building sites and ensure safe and effective electrical setup from the ground up.

4. Essential Skills and Qualities

To succeed as an electrician, certain skills and personal traits are essential:

• Math and Science Knowledge: Especially algebra and physics.
• Problem-Solving Abilities: Diagnosing electrical issues can be like solving a puzzle.
• Attention to Detail: Mistakes can lead to safety hazards.
• Physical Fitness: You’ll be standing, climbing, or bending most of the day.
• Hand-Eye Coordination: Working with wires and tools requires precision.
• Teamwork and Communication: You’ll often work with contractors, customers, or other electricians.

5. Step-by-Step: How to Become an Electrician

Step 1: Get a High School Diploma or GED

Math, science, shop, and electronics classes are highly recommended.

Step 2: Enroll in a Trade School or Pre-Apprenticeship Program

These offer classroom learning and sometimes hands-on labs to prepare you for work.

Step 3: Apply for an Apprenticeship

Many apprenticeships are offered through unions, independent contractors, or government programs.

Step 4: Complete Your Apprenticeship

This takes 4–5 years and includes 8,000+ hours of work and 500–1,000 hours of classroom instruction.

Step 5: Pass the Licensing Exam

You’ll need to pass a state or regional exam covering the National Electrical Code and local laws.

Step 6: Become a Journeyman Electrician

After licensing, you can work independently under general supervision.

Step 7: Advance to Master Electrician (Optional)

With several more years of experience and possibly additional exams, you can supervise others or start your own business.

6. Starting Your Journey in High School

High school is the perfect time to lay the foundation for your electrician career.

Do This Now:

• Take Shop or Electrical Classes if available.
• Focus on Math and Physics.
• Join Vocational Programs or Dual Enrollment Courses.
• Volunteer or Intern with Local Electricians.
• Speak to a Career Counselor about technical schools and apprenticeships.
• Visit Construction or Trade Job Fairs to network and learn more.

7. Comparing Trade School and Apprenticeships

Trade School

• Duration: 6 months to 2 years
• Cost: Varies ($2,000–$20,000)
• Benefits: Structured learning, foundational knowledge
• Drawbacks: Must still complete an apprenticeship afterward

Apprenticeship

• Duration: 4–5 years
• Cost: Usually free (or low cost); you get paid
• Benefits: Earn while you learn
• Drawbacks: Competitive entry, longer time commitment

Pro Tip: Consider attending a trade school first to boost your chances of getting into a top apprenticeship program.

8. Certification and Licensing Requirements

Every state or country has its own licensing process, but most require:

• High school diploma or GED
• Completion of an apprenticeship
• Classroom training
• Passing a certification or licensing exam

Common Certifications:

• OSHA Safety Training
• National Electrical Code (NEC) Certification
• Journeyman or Master Electrician License
• Specialty Certifications for solar systems, alarms, or HVAC wiring

9. Tools and Equipment Electricians Use

Being familiar with tools early on can give you an edge. Some common tools include:

• Wire strippers
• Multimeters and voltage testers
• Screwdrivers and pliers
• Circuit testers
• Conduit benders
• Drills and saws

You’ll learn how to safely and effectively use these during training.

10. A Day in the Life of an Electrician

A typical workday may include:

• Reviewing blueprints and job instructions
• Driving to job sites
• Installing or repairing wires and outlets
• Testing systems for faults
• Communicating with clients or project managers
• Following strict safety procedures

Days can be long and physically demanding, but also very rewarding.

11. Salary Expectations at Each Stage

Here’s what you can expect to earn depending on your experience:

Career Level	Approx. Hourly Pay	Annual Salary (Avg)
Apprentice	$15–$20	$30,000–$40,000
Journeyman	$25–$35	$50,000–$75,000
Master	$40–$60+	$80,000–$120,000+

Self-employed electricians or those who specialize in complex systems can earn even more.

12. Job Outlook and Industry Trends

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:

• Job Growth: 6% from 2022 to 2032
• Green Energy: Increased demand for electricians skilled in solar and wind energy
• Technology: Smart homes and automation create more opportunities
• Aging Workforce: Many electricians are retiring, opening spots for young talent

Electricians are needed globally, making this a valuable and portable career.

13. Work Environments and Career Paths

Electricians work in diverse environments:

• Residential homes
• Schools and hospitals
• Construction sites
• Power plants and factories
• Oil rigs and mining sites

Career Advancement Options:

• Master Electrician
• Electrical Inspector
• Project Manager
• Electrical Engineer (with additional education)
• Electrical Business Owner

14. Advantages and Challenges of the Trade

Advantages:

• High income potential
• Variety of work
• In-demand skills
• Entrepreneurial options

Challenges:

• Physical labor
• Working in extreme conditions
• Staying updated with codes
• Risk of injury (though minimized with training)

15. Scholarships and Financial Aid for Future Electricians

Many scholarships exist to support students in the trades:

• Mike Rowe Foundation
• IBEW Scholarships
• National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA)
• Local union scholarships
• State-funded technical school grants

Also, many trade schools accept federal student aid (FAFSA in the U.S.).

16. Women in the Electrical Trade

The number of women electricians is growing. Female electricians bring valuable skills and are welcomed across the industry.

Organizations That Support Women:

• Women in Electrical Construction (WIEC)
• National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC)
• Tradeswomen Inc.

Gender should never be a barrier to entering this high-paying, rewarding field.

17. FAQs About Becoming an Electrician

Q1: Can I become an electrician without a degree?
Yes. Most electricians don’t need a traditional college degree.

Q2: Is it hard to get into an apprenticeship?
It can be competitive, but good grades and trade school experience help.

Q3: Can I switch to becoming an electrician after another career?
Yes! Many people transition to trades later in life.

Q4: Is this a good job for people who don’t like sitting all day?
Absolutely. Most work is active and on-site.

Q5: Are there opportunities to work overseas?
Yes. Licensed electricians are in demand worldwide, especially in construction and infrastructure.

18. Final Thoughts

Now that you understand how to become an electrician, it’s time to take the first step. You don’t need to follow a traditional college path to have a stable, fulfilling, and well-paid career. Whether you choose to join a trade school, apply for an apprenticeship, or start learning online, your journey begins now.

As long as there are lights to switch on and machines to power up, electricians will always be in demand.