The trades are getting a renewed interest. It’s important that we train individuals on trades like electrical work for a variety of reasons, including shipbuilding. Do you think becoming a certified electrician is a good career move for you? If so, there are a few things you can do to make the process easier. Here are 5 steps you can take to become a certified electrician.
Get Your Diploma or GED
To continue your education and become a certified electrician you need to have your high school diploma or GED and a good foundation in math and science.
Having practical courses, like electronics, ahead of going to school to become an electrician is also helpful.
Take Classes
The next step for any trade is to take the right classes. Your local community college or trade school should offer classes in electrical work that can give you the foundation you need to become a certified electrician.
The programs available will vary depending on your location or the type of work you’re most interested in doing after you graduate.
Become an Apprentice
Most electricians gain their initial experience through apprenticeships. You can apply for an apprentice position through any number of trade organizations in your area, such as the National Electrical Contractors Association or International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers.
You may also be able to find opportunities through your trade school, applying for jobs online, or with the U.S. Department of Labor.
Get Your License
The next step once you have a certain number of hours under your belt is to obtain your license. The route you need to take will largely depend on the state where you live. In general, getting the license to be a certified electrician happens after you’ve completed your education, worked a number of supervised hours, and taken an exam.
If you need to know the exact path to take in your state, contact the local trades group to get a better understanding of the process.
Apply for Local Jobs
Once you’re certified, you are able to get a job as a licensed electrician. There are a lot of things you can do as an electrician, but on in-demand field is shipbuilding.
Shipyards need electricians to help complete the fabrication and build of ships that will travel the world. If you’ve ever thought you wanted to be a part of the marine industry, a shipyard job is a great fit for your electrical experience.
Are you looking for an electrician position in a shipyard? Contact Hutco today.