apprentice training

Do You Have What it Takes?

Do You Have What It Takes?

Electricians must be in good physical condition and tolerant of working in varied climatic conditions such as heat, cold, rain, and snow.

• You must have a high school diploma or G.E.D. (in most locations) and have good employability skills.
• You must have a reliable source of transportation to school and to job sites.
• You must be able to work independently and as a member of a team.

So You Want to Be an Electrician – What Now?

• Take algebra, geometry and physical science in high school. Students must have a working knowledge of algebra.
• Take applied classed if available (commercial and residential electricity, construction technology, mechanical drawing, computer-assisted design or other related classed).
• Seek summer work in electrical construction.

"As an electrician, every day I get to challenge myself. I enjoy all the positive feedback from the customer and my co-workers."

Caleb Williams, SECCO
Camp Hill, Pennsylvania
IEC Central PA Chapter

Electricians are among the most highly paid of the skilled trades. Overall, electrician wages are way above the average wage for all workers ($14.15) and the average wage for construction workers ($16.66). Let's take a look at how electrician compensation compares to other fields:

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Occupational Employment Statistics, the average hourly earnings of a certified (journeyman) electrician was $23.12* in 2007, with the top 10 percent earning more that $35.95 per hour. Apprentice electricians usually start a 30-50 percent of the average journeyman electricians wage rate. As an apprentice's experience and knowledge progresses with their education training, so does their wage. It is possible to double your earnings by the time you graduate from IEC's program. See table above.

Benefits can include 401(k), plan; health and dental benefits; life insurance, paid vacation; paid holidays; and MORE.