5 Reasons to Become an Electrician

Interested in starting a career in the skilled trades? Electrician could be an excellent career choice if you are a hard worker who enjoys problem-solving, using your hands, and working with others. Here are five quick reasons to join the trade, from job growth and electrician salary expectations to making a positive impact in your community and the world.

1. Solid job prospects

The future of electrician job growth looks rosy. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data predicts 7% job growth between 2021 and 2031 (about the same as all other occupations in the country). That translates to over 50,000 new electrician jobs during that period.

More electricians will likely be needed to help with new construction and remodeling existing homes and businesses. The growing popularity of solar energy and electric vehicles (EVs) may also drive this trend. Charging stations will need to be installed in homes and at service stations to help power EVs, so you could jump on this trend by specializing in green energy options.

2. Great salary expectations

Electricians also enjoy excellent salaries in many parts of the country. The average annual wage is $63,310, according to BLS data, or $30.44 per hour. Electricians in some states could make much more—for example, Illinois electricians make $83,140 on average, the highest average electrician salary in the country.

How much you earn also depends on the industry you work in. Electricians in the field of natural gas distribution, for example, make an average salary of $104,920 (BLS).

3. High job satisfaction

People spend most of their time at work, so being happy on the job is important to many. This also goes for electricians. Fortunately, if you want to be an electrician, you may be satisfied with your career choice!

A 2022 survey found that 77% of U.S. electricians are happy with their jobs. Tradespeople tend to be satisfied with their careers thanks to their unique work. If you own your own business, you may be able to create a better work-life balance and pick and choose the customers you work with. You might also enjoy helping others and seeing what you have accomplished each day.

4. Earn while your train

You don’t need an expensive college degree to become an electrician. While you can attend a technical school to learn the basics, all you really need is a high school diploma or GED. In fact, you will be paid to learn the trade as an apprentice.

Becoming an apprentice is the most common way to learn how to be an electrician. Apprenticeships combine classroom instruction with hands-on, real-world training supervised by a licensed electrician. You will be paid during your apprenticeship, which typically takes four to five years to finish.

5. Help build a more sustainable future

Electricians are well placed to help lead a “green revolution” when it comes to how the country powers its homes and businesses. As already mentioned, solar power is becoming more popular. Specializing in solar panel installation and maintenance may be an excellent business idea for a qualified electrician.

EVs are also becoming more popular. Homes and service stations will need ways to charge these vehicles as they switch to greener transportation options. They may also seek green options to upgrade their existing electrical systems or appliances.

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