As the cost of college is continuing to rise, many students are looking at alternatives after high school. One excellent Choice is becoming an electrician. Not only will it provide a good salary and stable work, but it will also provide a sense of job security. In California, this is a good job that is in high demand and will not be taken over by artificial intelligence anytime soon.
While most office jobs are not physically active and repetitive, electrical work is different. Electricians install wiring and solve issues. It is not repetitive because they work in different environments like homes, schools, and construction sites. This job requires physical skills and problem-solving. While technology might help electricians in their work, it definitely can not replace them.
If you want to become an electrician in California, you will need to be trained to gain experience in the field. Most people begin their careers as an electrical trainee. However, in order to become fully certified, you will need to have 8,000 hours of on-the-job experience in addition to classroom training. After completing the experience, you will need to take a state exam. Although it might seem like a lot, it gives you real experience and pays you while you prepare for your career.
One of the best ways to start your career is through an apprenticeship program. They are around 4 years in length and allow you to earn money at the same time you’re learning and completing your hours. Making around $22-$25 an hour starting out. You will be working under experienced electricians and will be taking classes at the same time. This is a good idea if you’re not interested in attending college and earning money fast. After completing your hours, you become a journeyman, which is the full licensed electrician position, making upwards of $40 an hour. Trade schools are another path, offering classroom training that can help you get into the field faster because you will already have experience.
There is also a non-schooling option where you can begin working as a helper/laborer, making around $22 an hour. This may be a faster way of getting started, but in California, you still have to enter a training program for your hours worked to count towards your certification.
Another decision is between union and non-union work. While union work will provide a steady pay raise as the years go on, and more benefits, it can be more difficult to get into. Non-union work is easier to get into and allows more flexibility, but the pay and training will vary depending on the company, and you will not get the same benefits as you would from the union.
This is different from other states like Texas and Florida because California has stricter rules and certifications. This also shows that electricians in California are highly trained.
In the end, becoming an electrician is a good alternative to going to school, giving you good hands-on work, great pay, and a future that won’t be replaced by AI.
