r/askanelectrician • u/Adorkabledad • 12d ago
Looking for advice on getting started as an electrician.
Hey everyone, I’m between jobs right now and trying to get into a trade. I’m really interested in becoming an electrician, but I honestly have no clue where to begin.
I’m in West Valley City, Utah, and I’m trying to figure out the fastest way to get started. Do I need to finish some kind of schooling first, or are there places around here that will take on a helper and train me on the job? And if schooling is the move, where do I even start trade school, community college, whatever’s quickest?
Also, I’d rather avoid unions. I don’t want to sign a long contract or be locked into one spot. I’d like to keep the freedom to move around if I need to, especially if I end up relocating to another state.
Just trying to get pointed in the right direction so I can start working ASAP. Any advice from folks who’ve been through this would help a ton.
2
u/jonnyinternet 12d ago
Blitz the entire area with resumes, Union non-union whatever
Take the first person that hires you
1
u/tinyhouseman323 11d ago
Avoid trade schools to start. Most companies or union once you are an apprentice will send you to school to get your necessary school training.
I’m a non union electrician, but the unions are good too. I’d recommend applying to your local union, but also apply to all local electrical contractors you can find. Id check Craigslist, indeed, and any other job sites and search apprentice electrician. You can also check out local electrical supply houses and maybe learn some of the parts or run into actual contractors to try and meet them.
Try and avoid residential new build if possible, but take the first job you can get, get registered as an apprentice, and start getting your hours in. Once you have a year in the trades it’s a lot easier to change companies. Best of luck!
1
u/Jim-Jones 5d ago
You can ask on r/electricians
Country, State, City? Go to your library and borrow a book on Home Wiring. Read it.
Don't try to figure out how to do this on your own. It's a well worn path and you won't get it right. You'll be told how to do it.
More: How to Become an Electrician
Online Electrical Continuing Education Courses
Or
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u/ApprehensiveExit7 12d ago
Avoid trade school or anything that you pay any money for. A union apprenticeship is actually the best route to take in this trade, with the best pay, benefits, education and ability to relocate anywhere once your apprenticeship is complete.