Enjoy working with your hands and facing a new challenge each day? Many apprenticeship programs to become an electrician pay you while you learn. It’s a fast-growing industry, and the average salary for electricians in Virginia is $51,930—yet local business owners are struggling to fill positions.
Electricians plan the layout and installation of electrical wiring, equipment or fixtures and connect wires to circuit breakers, transformers or other components. They also inspect and test electrical systems. Electricians work in homes, businesses, factories and construction sites. In Hampton Roads they are also needed for the maritime industry. The career is a good fit for people who enjoy working with their hands, troubleshooting and problem solving.
Bright Outlook
Employment of electricians is projected to grow 10 percent from 2018 to 2028, faster than the average for all occupations. Homes and businesses continue to require wiring, and electricians will be needed to install the necessary components. In addition, alternative power generation, such as solar and wind, is an emerging field that should require more electricians for installation. Increasingly, electricians will be needed to link these alternative power sources to homes and power grids over the coming decade.
Required Training
A high school diploma or equivalent is required to become an electrician. Most electricians learn through an apprenticeship, but some start out by attending a technical school.
Most electricians learn their trade in a 4- or 5-year apprenticeship program. Technical instruction for apprentices includes electrical theory, blueprint reading, mathematics, electrical code requirements, and safety and first-aid practices. They may also receive specialized training related to soldering, communications, fire alarm systems, and elevators.
Most states require electricians to be licensed.
Potential Earnings: $49,500-$56,180
The U.S. average yearly wages for electricians $56,180. In Virginia, electricians on average earn $51,930. In the Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News area, electricians earn an average of $49,500.
Success Story:
Local electrician Shawn Johnson hopes more students will realize the benefits of pursuing a career in a skilled trade. Read about his career.
To learn more about apprenticeships and training programs for the skilled trades, visit our Resources page.
Sources:
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Carpenters https://www.bls.gov/ooh/construction-and-extraction/electricians.htm
OnetOnline https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/47-2111.00