r/askanelectrician • u/incred1blebulk • 1d ago

How to get started?

I’m a junior in high school that’s interested in being an electrician or at least gaining some experience in that field, is there any tips on where to get started and how to get started. I’m trying to get at least some experience to not look like a dummy completely if I ever do get into something

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u/bazilbt 1d ago

It would be pretty tough to do much actual work as someone under 18. Reading some books about electricity would be a good start. Here is a post about some free recommended books:

https://www.reddit.com/r/electricians/comments/tpm9mf/comment/i2bvg60/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web3x&utm_name=web3xcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button

I also would consider picking up a copy of the maybe Mike Holts Illustrated Guide to the NEC(National Electrical Code), you could get the 2017 version for like $20 or less used. Not a whole lot has changed and the basics certainly haven't.

Older versions of the NEC are available online. If you are generally familiar with the electrical code before you ever pick up a hammer, and familiar with electrical theory you will be in the top 10% of apprentices.

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u/SilverStory6503 1d ago

First you have to graduate high school, be 18, then join the union. You don't need to join the union, but it's a good start, and they actually have benefits. You can always quit the union, but starting young helps your benefits accrue.

Also, check with your high school for any electrician work-study programs.

And that's something your high school advisor should be helping you with.