How Do Electrical Apprenticeships Work?

Performing electrical work is a very hands-on task. So quite naturally when training for this career, you'll be required to develop physical skills and manual dexterity. Each aspiring electrician will generally begin with an apprentice under a skilled professional.

Structure

According to many, the comprehensive training that makes up an apprenticeship programs provides qualification for new electricians to work in the maintenance or construction industry sector. The length of the programs generally last around four years and includes 144 hours of in-class training and 2,000 hours of hands-on training. All apprentices are paid for their on-the-job training, however the amount is usually much lower than licensed electricians. The training within the classroom includes courses in math, electrical theory, workplace safety, blueprint reading and electrical code.

Requirements

In order to qualify for apprenticeship program, each applicant will generally need to have a high school diploma or GED and have taken courses in mathematics while in high school, since many on-the-job problems will require solid math skills in order to solve. Generally, applicants also need to be at least 18 years old. Depending on the agency that the apprenticeship is through, all applicants may also need to pass an aptitude tests before getting started. This is because a great deal of the work load will include lifting, working in confined spaces, squatting for long periods and climbing ladders. Physical awareness, physical balance and balance are also important.

Pathways

There is more than one way to secure an electrical apprenticeship. Some individuals find work through a union or an independent association of electrical workers. Some found the programs from working on job sites as general laborers and progress into an apprenticeship positions through networking. For individuals still in high school, a guidance counselor's office is a great place to begin.