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Trade School Path to an Electrical Technician Career

Becoming an Electrical Technician is a rewarding career choice for those who enjoy working with their hands and solving technical problems. Electrical Technicians are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems in a variety of settings, from residential homes to industrial plants. With the growing demand for energy-efficient and renewable technologies, this career path offers stability, good wages, and opportunities for advancement. The most straightforward way to enter the field is through a trade school program, which provides the skills and knowledge necessary to begin a career in electrical technology.

Requirements to Get into the Electrical Tech Program

The requirements for entering an Electrical Technician program at a trade school are generally straightforward. Most schools require applicants to have a high school diploma or GED. Some programs may also require a basic understanding of math and physics, as these subjects are essential for understanding electrical theory and circuitry. Additionally, you may be asked to take an entrance exam to assess your aptitude in these areas, though this varies by institution.

Average Cost of the Electrical Tech Program

The cost of an Electrical Technician program at a trade school can range from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the school’s location, the length of the program, and the facilities provided. Some programs may include additional costs, such as textbooks, tools, and equipment fees. However, many trade schools offer financial aid options, scholarships, and payment plans to help offset these costs. In some cases, grants or state funding programs may also be available to those who qualify.

Courses in an Electrical Technology Program

An Electrical Technician trade school program typically lasts 6 months to 2 years, depending on whether you are attending full-time or part-time. The curriculum combines classroom instruction with hands-on training. Key courses you may encounter include:

  1. Electrical Theory – Covers the basics of electricity, including current, voltage, resistance, and circuit design.
  2. Blueprint Reading – Teaches students how to interpret technical drawings and electrical schematics.
  3. Residential Wiring – Focuses on wiring systems for homes, including installation of outlets, switches, and lighting systems.
  4. Commercial & Industrial Wiring – Provides training on more complex electrical systems used in businesses and industrial settings.
  5. National Electrical Code (NEC) – Familiarizes students with the safety standards and regulations set by the NEC for electrical work in the U.S.
  6. Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) – Introduces automation and control systems commonly used in industrial applications.
  7. Troubleshooting and Maintenance – Teaches students how to diagnose and repair electrical systems.

Differences Between Learning at Trade School vs Apprenticeship or On-the-Job Training

One of the key differences between attending a trade school and pursuing an apprenticeship or on-the-job training is the structured environment and formal curriculum. In trade school, students benefit from a classroom setting where they learn theory before applying it in a controlled hands-on environment. In contrast, apprenticeships and on-the-job training often focus on practical skills learned while working under the supervision of a licensed electrician.

Trade School Benefits:

  • Focused Learning: Trade schools provide a direct path with concentrated lessons on electrical systems, meaning you can become job-ready faster.
  • Shorter Time Frame: Programs are typically shorter, allowing you to enter the workforce in less time than a full apprenticeship.
  • Flexible Schedules: Many trade schools offer night or part-time classes, making it easier for those who work or have other responsibilities.

Apprenticeship/On-the-Job Training Benefits:

  • Earn While You Learn: Apprenticeships allow you to get paid while gaining experience.
  • Hands-On Experience: You may get more real-world experience in the field, which can be valuable when troubleshooting problems.
  • Mentorship: Working directly under experienced electricians provides the opportunity to learn from professionals in the field.

Getting a Job After Graduation

Upon graduation from a trade school, Electrical Technicians are well-prepared to enter the workforce. Trade schools often have partnerships with local employers, helping connect students with job opportunities. Many graduates find work in industries like construction, manufacturing, or energy. Some positions to explore include:

  • Residential Electrician
  • Commercial Electrician
  • Industrial Maintenance Electrician
  • Electrical Contractor
  • Automation Technician

Additionally, gaining certifications such as the Journeyman Electrician License (often required in most states) or specialized certifications in areas like PLC programming can improve job prospects and earning potential. Trade school graduates may also continue their education or pursue apprenticeships to become fully licensed electricians.

An Electric Career

The path to becoming an Electrical Technician through trade school is an efficient and focused way to start a career in a high-demand field. With the combination of classroom learning and hands-on experience, students are equipped with the skills necessary to succeed. While trade school offers a faster entry into the field compared to apprenticeships, both routes offer valuable experiences that can lead to fulfilling careers as skilled electricians. Whether you’re just starting your career or looking to upskill, the Electrical Technician trade school path provides a solid foundation for success.

Stephen James Hall: Stephen has written hundreds of articles about skilled trade and technical careers over the last 7 years. He works as a Director at Career Now Brands, but he previously worked for many years in the skilled trades as a carpenter, in historical preservation, and then as a construction manager.
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