I have a relative who wants to become an electrician. I'm trying to help him execute his career plan, but I don't know a hell of a lot about becoming or being an electrician. So, I was figuring someone here might know something. 1. What is the best way to become an electrician? 2. What school would be good to work with? Which should he avoid? Is there even another school in Houston that does electrician training besides Everest and ITT? 3. What would be a good position to pursue in the interim before being licensed that would give him some decent experience? 4. What can you say about being an electrician that other people won't tell him? 5. Are there any good online resources for the profession? 6. What else have I not asked that I should have?
Don't wear copper underwear. Wet shoes and socks are a no-no. Try to avoid touching both the black and white wires bare handed, or with a screw driver that has no rubber grip. Do go to a properly accredited and acclaimed school. Spend time as an apprentice. Make good money.
My brother dropped out of high school and basically did NOTHING for years. He had jobs here and there (pizza delivery guy, mover, etc.) making crap money. Then my brother-in-law (licensed electrician) gave him a little crash course on the basics and had him come in to interview for an apprenticeship. He got it and now makes almost $40,000 just as an apprentice. He says its hard learning new things especially since he's older (31 y.o.), but it's rewarding. Here's a link on apprenticeships.
hmm, perfect timing thread? i've thought about becoming an electrician or plumber. had no idea apprentices got paid $40k. it's not big, big money but not bad for an apprentice. gonna take a look at that link. thanks.
I am NOT speaking from direct experience, but I would avoid those trade schools you see commercials for during daytime TV like ITT and Everest. Their "counselors" are more like salesmen and they work on commission. And as a former IT recruiter I can tell you that if we saw ITT on someone's resume, it went directly into the trash can.
Thanks. I'm aware of the bias against ITT in some trades like IT, but I thought it may be different in something like electricians. I'm still wary though, which is why I'm asking. Going through the union (thanks again, Shady) may be the better way, but doesn't have the immediacy.
