There is a lot of debate about whether or not you need to have a college degree to be an electrician. Some people say that the experience and skills you learn on the job are enough, while others believe that you need to have a formal education to succeed in this career.
So, which is it? Do you need a degree to be an electrician? Let’s take a closer look at both sides of this argument.
Is becoming an electrician precisely what you want?
Before you start making any decisions about your future, you must ask yourself if being an electrician is really what you want. It is a career that requires a lot of hard work and dedication, and it’s not something that you can just half-heartedly commit to. If you’re not sure if this is the right path for you, then it’s probably best to explore other options.
On the other hand, if you’re certain that being an electrician is what you want, it’s time to start thinking about whether or not you need a degree.
Job requirements
- You should be 18 years of age or older.
- You will also need to have a clean criminal record.
- Your physical condition must be up to the task.
- You should be able to work alone or in a team.
- Some employers may require you to have a valid driver’s license.
- Most employers will require you to have a high school diploma or equivalent.
You will need to complete an electrician apprenticeship program. Some employers may prefer or require applicants to have an associate’s degree in electrical technology.
As you can see, the job requirements for electricians vary depending on the employer. While some may not require a degree, others may prefer or even require it. To increase your chances of getting hired, you may consider completing an electrician apprenticeship program and/or getting an associate’s degree in electrical technology.
Skills and qualities
As an electrician, you will need to have good problem-solving skills. You will often be faced with situations where you will need to figure out the best way to solve an issue. You should also be able to think on your feet and be adaptable, as no two days will ever be the same.
Furthermore, you must have good manual dexterity, as this will come in handy when you’re working with small wires and other delicate materials.
What do you need to become an electrician?
School of Electricians
First of all, you need to finish electrician trade school. You can do that in many ways. You can sign up for an evening class, get an online education, or even become an apprentice under a journeyman electrician. The most important thing is that you learn everything there is to know about being an electrician.
Get Licensed
After you have finished trade school, the next step is to get licensed. To do that, you will need to pass an electrician licensing exam. This exam will test your knowledge of the National Electrical Code and other important topics. Once you have passed the exam, you will be able to get a license from your state or local government.
Get Insured
The last thing you need to do is get insured. It is important because it will protect you if something goes wrong while you are working. Electricians are at a higher risk of being injured on the job, so you must have insurance if you are ever hurt.
How long does it take to become an electrician?
It usually takes between four and five years to become an electrician. You will need to complete an electrician apprenticeship program, which typically lasts for four years. Once you have completed the apprenticeship program, you will then need to get licensed, which can take an additional year.
The pros of getting a degree
There are a few advantages to getting a degree, even if it’s not required for the job. Having a degree shows that you’re serious about your career and that you’re willing to put in the extra effort to get ahead. It can make you more attractive to potential employers.
In addition, a degree can give you a leg up on the competition when you’re applying for jobs. Even if the job doesn’t require a degree, having one can make you stand out from the other candidates.
Finally, getting a degree can allow you to learn more about the electrical trade and possibly earn higher wages. If you go to a vocational school or community college, you’ll take classes that cover the basics of electrical work. It can give you a better foundation for your career and make you more valuable to employers.
The cons of getting a degree
There are also a few disadvantages to getting a degree.
For one, it can be expensive. If you’re not able to get financial aid or scholarships, you may have to take out student loans to pay for your education. It can strain your finances, especially if you’re also trying to support yourself or a family.
In addition, getting a degree can take a lot of time. If you’re not able to attend school full-time, it could take several years to complete your education. So it can be a problem if you’re trying to start your career as quickly as possible.
The pros of not getting a degree
First, you can start your career sooner. If you have the necessary skills and experience, you can start working as an electrician. It can be a great option if you’re trying to earn money to support yourself or your family.
Second, you may be able to get on-the-job training. Many employers are willing to train electricians, so you may not need a degree to get started in this career. However, it can be a great way to learn the trade and to get experience working with electrical systems.
The cons of not getting a degree
First, you may have a more challenging time finding a job. Even if you have the necessary skills and experience, some employers may prefer to hire electricians who have a degree.
Second, you may not be able to earn as much money. Electricians with a degree may have an advantage in getting raises and promotions.
So, which is the right choice for you?
Deciding whether or not to get a degree is a personal decision. Both choices have benefits and drawbacks, so you’ll need to weigh the pros and cons to decide what’s best for you. If you’re not sure if getting a degree is the right choice for you, consider talking to a guidance counselor or an electrician to get more information.
