Increasingly, companies are contracting out their electrical work. They find this is less expensive than keeping an electrician on the staff. Preparation High school courses in math, electricity, electronics are useful. Other suggested courses are mechanical drawing, science, and shop. Applicants should be in good health and of average or better physical strength.
Electricians learn their job either through an apprenticeship or informally.
Apprenticeship programs last four to five years. Students have at least 144 hours of classroom instruction each year. In the classroom they learn blueprint reading, electrical theory, and electronics. They also study math, electrical codes, safety practices, and first aid. Apprentices receive special training in welding and fire alarm systems.