When you're considering potential career paths, you might be thinking about going into the electrical field. Working as an electrician is a promising career, and it is one that comes with growth potential and long-term job security. However, that doesn't mean that it's the right job for everyone. Here's a look at a few things to think about when you're deciding if working as an electrician is right for you.
Time Commitment
One of the things that you need to consider when you're trying to decide if a career as an electrician is right for you is the time commitment that you're facing. In order to work as an electrician, you'll have to start with an apprenticeship and log thousands of active work hours under that apprenticeship. Then, you'll need to log several thousand more hours as a lead electrician in order to become a master electrician.
Make sure that you are able to invest the time that's required to get to where you want to be in your career. If you're looking for something quick, this isn't the career for you. However, if you're willing to work for it, you'll have an option for work for many years to come.
Dynamic Work Environment
Another thing you should know about working as an electrician is that it's a pretty dynamic job. You'll work in various different environments. You'll be able to choose between residential and commercial work, or you can even provide work for both types of clients. When you're looking for a job that's going to change regularly, with different tasks, problems, and environments regularly, working as an electrician is a great option.
Health Considerations
You'll also need to think about whether or not your health makes you a suitable candidate for a career as an electrician. For example, if you have a condition that causes tremors, fine motor skill issues, or something similar, the detailed, precise work of an electrician may not be the right fit for you.
Additionally, if you are colorblind, a career in electrical work may be challenging. Remember that wire colors are often chosen to match certain functions. If you're unable to clearly recognize those colors, you won't be able to work effectively as an electrician.
Consider your health and make sure that you won't have any kind of health issues that could affect your ability to work in this field.
Talk with a local electrician or look into the electrical jobs near you for more information.