4 Things To Look For In An Electrician Training Program
Becoming certified as an electrician can really open up the doors to all kinds of opportunities, especially when you consider how in-demand this skill is. There will always be a need for experienced and skilled electricians, so if you've been looking for a career path that allows you to work with your hands and has great job prospects, now is a great time to consider enrolling in an electrician training program.
It's important to realize, however, that not all programs are created equal. Specifically, there are a few things you'll want to look for as you seek out the program that's right for you.
State Certification Upon Completion
First and foremost, make sure that any program you even consider enrolling in will include testing for state certification upon completion of the program. This means that you should be trained and prepared for your state's unique certification examination. Some programs may even include testing fees as part of their program, as well as practice tests and the like. Without this as part of your program, you may have a hard time getting certified, which defeats the purpose of your schooling altogether.
Hands-On Training Opportunities
Electrical work is an industry that requires lots of hands-on training; while it's true that you will need to do some textbook studying and take some "traditional" written examinations as part of your program, any reputable electrician training program should include a fair amount of hands-on experience in a workshop.
State or National Accreditation
This applies not just to electrician programs, but just about any degree or trade school program that you may consider: check to make sure that the college, trade school, or other institution is fully accredited by your state. Otherwise, your certificate probably isn't going to mean much.
Internship or Apprenticeship Options
Many programs these days will also offer opportunities for internships and/or apprenticeships with other electricians as part of your course of study. If this is something that would interest you, make sure you find a program that will include placement into one of these programs. This is a great way to get real industry experience and perhaps even a foot in the door when it comes to landing a job after completing your program.
By keeping these important factors in mind as you scope out electrician programs, you'll ultimately be able to select and apply for the one that's best for you.