Electricians have very important jobs: they help keep the world wired, lit, and up and running, so people can continue to live and work without interruption. Becoming an electrician is something that is highly specialized, however, and it requires training and education that takes several years. To become qualified, electricians begin their career completing an electrical apprenticeship. Apprentice programs help electricians hone their skills, giving them important and necessary on the job training.
What is an electrical apprenticeship?
An electrician apprentice is a professional and a student at the same time. This is a paid position and the goal during the apprentice program is to build up their experience and skills to ultimately become an independent electrician. By working with a professional electrician organization, individuals can complete classwork at the same time as getting real work experience.
What kind of work is completed during an apprenticeship?
The apprentice completes a variety of different electrical projects during this time with the goal of gaining knowledge and experience with a wide variety of common electrical problems. The apprentice works alongside a journeyman or master electrician to complete the jobs in homes, businesses, or other industrial settings. The apprentice might install wiring systems, assess blueprints and electrical diagrams, replace breakers or transformers, troubleshoot home wiring issues or other malfunctions, install conduits, or dig for underground installation.
How much does an apprentice electrician make in Washington?
How long is an electrician apprenticeship?
Apprentice programs usually take several years to complete depending on your chosen specialization. To earn a license as a journeyman electrician in Washington, an apprentice would require about four years of electrical work experience plus a further 96 hours of classroom training.
If you have considered beginning a career as an electrician, now is the time to act. Prairie Electric strives to diversify its workforce and welcomes people of all kinds to apply for work. We are proud to offer competitive pay and excellent benefits including paid holidays and paid time off, insurance coverage, a 401K plan, and much more. To learn more about becoming an electrician, visit our Careers page.
