Where would we be without electricity? Imagine buildings without it. You can’t, can you? It’s the 21st Century, and the world runs on electricity.
Did you ever think of becoming an electrician? It’s one of those jobs that there will always be a need for, since every business and home requires electricity. Someone has to install the power outlets and lighting systems in these places—maybe that someone could be you.
The pay for electrical work is increasing and well above average for the construction industry as a whole. An experienced electrician can make $60,000 to $80,000, so you can have a comfortable living with some extra toys. Remember that construction is not the same “dirty job” it was 30 years ago. Check out what Mike Rowe has to say at www.mikeroweworks.com as he has some great insight.
Do you like doing methodical projects, where you’re essentially problem-solving and building something with your hands? Being a commercial electrician means you use your brain and your hands to supply power and lighting where people want it to be. Typically, electricians work from plans, diagrams, and/or blueprints to place conduit, wires, switches, light fixtures and circuit breaker panels in buildings. There are local electrical codes (rules) to be followed, in order to keep everyone safe from harm, so a healthy respect for “the rules” is a good attitude to have if you consider this line of work. You don’t want to accidentally (or intentionally) mess up a place’s wiring, causing a fire.
Commercial and industrial electricians also decide the correct wiring for equipment needing special power, such as robotics, heavy equipment, air conditioners and refrigeration units.
When problems arise, electricians may use electrical test meters to check to see if there are “shorts” in the system and/or breaks that need to be repaired. Math skills, particularly algebra, come in handy, since electrical work requires some calculations to be done.
If you like working with tools, being a commercial electrician is a great job because you get to use wire cutters, screwdrivers, electric lifts, conduit benders and more. It’s a physical job—you may end up climbing ladders, working in unusual positions, and lifting heavy equipment, so the job is a decent workout helping you stay fit.
The pay is above average, and the industry, as a whole, is growing quite a bit. You should check with your state to see what license is needed to be a practicing, professional electrician. Some schooling and testing is generally required before you actually start working on projects.
If you’re a commercial electrician looking for a job, please visit the career’s section of our website.