Electrician
Job Description
Do you enjoy solving problems and working with your hands? A career as an electrician might be your perfect fit. With a variety of day-to-day tasks, competitive pay, and endless opportunities for growth, becoming an electrician offers more than just a job—it’s a path to long-term success.
Electricians are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems in various settings, including homes, commercial spaces, and industrial facilities. Most electricians develop a specialized focus, allowing them to master their craft in a particular field. Identifying issues, troubleshooting, and testing equipment are key parts of the job, and a passion for learning is essential in this ever-evolving industry.
One of the greatest benefits of this career is the ability to earn while you learn. In a typical five-year apprenticeship, electricians gain around 2,000 hours of hands-on, paid training annually. This on-the-job experience, paired with classroom learning, helps you become a licensed journeyman electrician.
And here’s some great news—electricians are in high demand. Employers are actively seeking skilled professionals, meaning your dedication and hard work will pay off. Though earning your journeyman license requires four to five years of commitment, the rewards are well worth the effort.
Ready to power up your career? Keep reading to find out how you can prepare for this exciting and in-demand job with Andiamo Electric.
Responsibilities
- Install, maintain and repair wiring
- Troubleshoot electrical issues
- Plan electrical systems
- Inspect and maintain circuit breakers and transformers
- Translate circuit diagrams and blueprints
- Test systems
- Maintain safety and follow all laws and building codes
Why Enter an Electrician Apprenticeship Program?
If you’re looking to become an electrician, the best way to get started is by joining an apprenticeship program. It’s a clear, structured path that sets you up for a successful career in the trade.
One of the biggest perks of an apprenticeship is the hands-on experience you gain while learning valuable skills that will serve you for years to come. You’ll get a mix of classroom learning and on-the-job training, allowing you to develop both technical know-how and practical problem-solving abilities.
Another huge advantage? Apprenticeships are paid positions. That means you’ll earn money as you learn—no piling up student loans or hefty tuition fees. It’s a great opportunity for those who want to get into the workforce and start building their career without the burden of debt.
In short, an electrician apprenticeship gives you the chance to learn, earn, and grow all at once, making it a smart choice for anyone serious about building a successful career as an electrician.
If you’re thinking about becoming an electrician, here’s a roadmap to get you started:
First, you’ll need a high school diploma or equivalent. If you’re still in school, focus on classes like math (especially algebra and trigonometry), basic physics, shop, and mechanical drawing if they’re offered. These will give you a solid foundation.
Next, consider attending a trade, vocational, or technical school. These programs give you a mix of classroom learning and hands-on training in electrical basics, and you might even earn credits toward an apprenticeship. Some schools have agreements where one year of study can count as 1,000 hours of on-the-job experience. Others offer entry-level programs that lead directly to journeyman status.
When you’re ready to begin hands-on training, you’ll want to find an apprenticeship. You can do this through trade schools, unions, or organizations like the Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) or Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC). Some states may require you to register before starting. If you’ve served in the military or have prior construction experience, you might be eligible for a fast-track apprenticeship.
Throughout your apprenticeship, you’ll learn essential skills like reading blueprints, following safety regulations, electrical power distribution, and more. You’ll also get comfortable with tools, grounding systems, and problem-solving on the job.
Once you’ve completed your apprenticeship, the next step is to pass the necessary exams to earn your electrician’s license or certification. The requirements differ depending on where you live, but you’ll typically be tested on local building and electrical codes, the National Electrical Code, and electrical theory.
After becoming a licensed journeyman, you’ll have the skills and freedom to work independently. But your career doesn’t have to stop there. With two more years of experience, you can take another exam to become a licensed master electrician or an independent contractor.
A master electrician can train apprentices, lead projects, and oversee teams. If you aim to run your own business, becoming an independent contractor lets you hire your own team or work solo.
Finally, remember that some practical qualifications might be required. A driver’s license is usually necessary to get to job sites, and you may need to pass a drug test or meet specific physical requirements.
In Alberta, becoming an electrician typically takes four to five years of training through an apprenticeship program. During this time, you’ll combine classroom education with practical, on-the-job experience.
To meet Alberta’s licensing requirements, apprentices must complete 1,560 hours of hands-on training each year, along with eight weeks of technical training annually. Over the course of the apprenticeship, this adds up to around 8,000 hours of work experience and 1,200 hours of classroom instruction.
Because regulations can change, it’s a good idea to check with Alberta’s Apprenticeship and Industry Training (AIT) program for the most up-to-date requirements.
Absolutely! There’s a strong and steady demand for electricians in Edmonton and across Alberta. As industries grow and modernize, skilled electricians are essential for everything from residential projects to large commercial and industrial installations.
Emerging fields like clean energy are creating even more opportunities for electricians. With the rise of renewable energy projects, electricians are in demand to help connect solar, wind, and other green energy systems to the electrical grid.
In short, whether it’s maintaining the electrical infrastructure or working in new industries, the demand for electricians in Edmonton remains high, making it a great time to start or grow your career.
If you’re thinking about becoming an electrician, there are a few key skills and qualities that will set you up for success:
- Strong communication skills: You’ll need to communicate clearly with team members, clients, and other tradespeople.
- Basic math knowledge: A good grasp of math, especially algebra and basic calculations, is crucial for measuring, wiring, and troubleshooting.
- Physical strength and endurance: Electricians often work with heavy tools and materials and may need to be on their feet for long hours.
- Safety-focused: Being alert and following safety protocols is essential to ensure both your safety and that of others.
- Stamina and flexibility: Electricians sometimes work in tight spaces, at heights, or in challenging environments.
- Good color vision: Since wiring relies on color codes, not being color blind is a must.
The Bottom Line:
As we’ve outlined, becoming an electrician involves several years of dedicated training, but the rewards are well worth the effort. Once you master the trade, the opportunities are endless. Electricians get to work with both their hands and minds, tackling new challenges and problem-solving every day. You won’t find yourself bored—there’s always something new to learn!
If this sounds like the right career path for you, take a look below for training opportunities in the Edmonton area. Your journey to a rewarding and dynamic career as an electrician starts here!
How to Get Started
If you’re ready to kickstart your career as an electrician in Edmonton, the first step is to enroll in one of the city’s excellent training programs. Once you’ve completed your coursework, apply for an apprenticeship with Andiamo Electric. Our team is always looking for dedicated, passionate individuals eager to learn and grow in the industry.
