The electrical field is an exciting and growing industry. With the ever-evolving need for more electricity and new electrical systems, the future of electrical work is looking bright. Electricians have a variety of opportunities available to them, including apprenticeship programs that can provide valuable training in order to enter the field. For students interested in pursuing a career in this area, it’s important to know what job growth looks like and how much electricians can make in salary.
Apprenticeship Programs for Training
Apprenticeships are an excellent way for those interested in becoming electricians to get properly trained for the job. These programs allow students to learn from experienced professionals while being paid a salary. Student apprentices will typically spend four years training under an experienced mentor who will teach them about safety protocol, wiring methods, local codes, blueprint reading, and more. By completion of the program, apprentices will be well prepared to take on their own jobs as electricians or even pursue higher education in the electrical field if they choose to do so.
Salary Expectations
The salary range for electricians varies depending on experience level and location. According to Glassdoor, entry-level electricians earn on average $17 – $19 per hour, while more experienced electricians can earn up to $30 per hour or more depending on where they work and what types of projects they are working on. In addition to salaries based upon hourly wages, some electricians may receive bonuses or overtime pay depending on their contract situation with employers and any applicable union agreements that may be in place.
Job Growth Prospects
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of electricians is projected to grow by 8% from 2018-2028, which is faster than average for all occupations combined. This increase is driven by both population growth and advances in technology which require additional electrical installations or upgrades within homes and businesses. With such a positive outlook for job growth coupled with competitive salaries already available within this field, now may be an ideal time for students considering a career as an electrician to begin exploring their options further!
If you’re interested in learning more about what it takes to become an electrician or to explore apprenticeship programs available near you, consider speaking with teachers at your school or contacting your state’s Department of Labor office directly. Additionally, consulting websites such as Indeed or Glassdoor may offer useful information regarding current salary expectations and job postings that could help guide your decision making process further.
