Whether it’s a home rewire, installing new circuits or wiring a point-of-sale terminal, hiring an experienced local electrician is a smart move. Licensed electricians know how to safely and accurately handle all kinds of electrical projects, including air conditioning, light fitting and installation, safety switches and smoke alarms. They can even help homeowners and businesses claim energy rebates on new equipment and installations.
A licensed electrician is a construction professional who has completed a formal apprenticeship program and meets state licensing requirements. Apprenticeship programs combine paid on-the-job training with related classroom instruction. These programs are typically sponsored by a trade union, such as the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), a national labor organization; individual electrical contracting companies; or trade or vocational schools.
The apprenticeship process typically takes four to five years. After completion, the apprentice must pass a written exam. Upon successful passage of the exam, the apprentice will become a journeyman electrician. Journeymen must continue to take part in formal training to maintain their license and to keep up with changes to the industry.
Despite the challenges, there are plenty of opportunities to become a local electrician. The demand for skilled labor is increasing across the United States, and some areas are experiencing shortages. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of jobs for electricians is expected to grow by 5% over the next decade. This is due to the need for more power infrastructure, as well as increased demand for electric vehicles.
While there are many ways to become a local electrician, the best way is to get a recommendation from someone you trust. This could be a friend, family member or business associate. A recommendation is often the quickest and most cost-effective method of finding a qualified electrician.
Cora Saxton, a local electrician in Seattle, is passionate about her job. She likes the challenge of solving problems and being able to see the results of her work in the end. She also enjoys working with her hands and interacting with customers.
It’s important to ask an electrician about insurance coverage before they start any work. Ensure that they have general liability and workers’ compensation insurance. This will protect you if an accident occurs on your property and will make it easier to file a claim for damages.
During World War II, the local’s membership rose substantially as it supplied electricians for critical defense and other types of manufacturing. The Local 3 newspaper, Electrical Union World, ran a series of articles on the experiences of its members in overseas factories. The Local also increased its work day from six hours to eight and adhered strictly to the no-strike pledge. In addition, the Local began organizing workers at electrical manufacturing plants to bring them into the local. This was the first time that a craft local had used vertical unionism, which would become an important feature of IBEW organizing strategies in the future.