In a world driven by information technology and rapid advancements, one might wonder about the staying power of traditional trades. However, certain professions not only endure but flourish, and one such vocation is that of an electrician.

The demand for skilled electricians is on an upward trajectory. As industries continue to evolve, the need for professionals who can manage and manipulate electrical systems remains constant.

At the forefront of addressing this demand is the vocational school’s comprehensive trade program in electrical applications. With a specialized curriculum designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge required to excel in this field, the program offers a direct path to a promising career.

As we delve into the various aspects of the electrician profession and the factors driving its high demand, it becomes evident that the role of an electrician is not just relevant but indispensable in shaping our modern world.

What Does an Electrician do?

Electricians are the unsung heroes ensuring that our daily lives are comfortable by installing, repairing, and maintaining electrical infrastructure. They are the wizards behind the scenes who bring power to our homes, offices, and industries.

Electricians play a vital role in various industries, contributing to everything from construction projects to manufacturing units. They are the experts who design and implement electrical systems, ensuring they meet safety standards and regulations. From setting up complex wiring networks to troubleshooting electrical faults, their work is at the heart of modern infrastructure.

In the digital age, their significance goes beyond the obvious. Electricians facilitate the smooth operation of data centers, which power our online lives. They enable the functioning of medical equipment in hospitals, safeguarding lives. Whether it’s lighting up stadiums or keeping factories running, electricians are the linchpin of modern society. Their versatile skills and deep understanding of electrical systems make them indispensable in shaping the world as we know it.

Why are Electricians in High Demand?

There are many reasons electricians are in demand. From labor market strength to electricians at the retirement age and everything in between, the demand for electricians is projected to grow 7 percent in the coming decade.

Labor Market Strength

The labor market for electricians is robust and shows no signs of waning. As technology continues to advance, the reliance on electrical systems grows, translating into a constant need for skilled professionals. From residential settings to commercial spaces, electricians are the backbone of the infrastructure that powers our modern lives. This demand is reflected in competitive salaries and job stability within the field.

Increase in Construction

Construction projects are surging, and electricians are essential to bring these projects to life. Whether it’s constructing new buildings, expanding existing structures, or renovating spaces, electricians are instrumental in ensuring that the electrical systems are not just functional but also safe. This surge in construction, driven by population growth and urbanization, directly contributes to the demand for electricians.

Automation and Robotics

While automation and robotics are transforming industries, they do not render electricians obsolete. In fact, these technological advancements rely heavily on electrical systems for operation. Electricians are needed to install, maintain, and troubleshoot the intricate electrical networks that power these automated systems. They bridge the gap between innovation and implementation, ensuring that automation remains efficient and reliable.

Energy Infrastructure Legislation

Legislation aimed at promoting sustainable energy practices and reducing carbon footprints has sparked a demand for energy-related projects. This shift towards cleaner energy sources necessitates the expertise of electricians to install and maintain solar panels, wind turbines, and other green technologies. Electricians play a crucial role in realizing these initiatives, accelerating the demand for their skills.

Retirement of Electricians

As seasoned electricians approach retirement, a significant knowledge gap emerges. The expertise held by experienced professionals cannot be replaced overnight. This impending retirement wave opens avenues for newcomers to enter the field. As the torch passes to the next generation, the demand for qualified electricians who can seamlessly fill these roles continues to rise.

How to Become an Electrician?

Becoming an electrician is a rewarding journey that starts with the right education and training. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to embark on this exciting career path:

Trade School Program

At the heart of becoming a skilled electrician is our trade school’s 9-month diploma program in electrical applications. This program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of electrical systems, safety protocols, and hands-on practical skills. Through a combination of classroom lectures and hands-on lab work, students gain the knowledge and expertise needed to excel in this dynamic field.

The program covers a wide range of topics, from electrical theory and circuit design to installation techniques and troubleshooting methods. By immersing students in real-world scenarios, the program ensures they are well-prepared to tackle the challenges of the industry head-on.

Preparation for Apprenticeship

While formal education lays a strong foundation, practical experience is equally crucial. After completing the diploma program, aspiring electricians typically enter an apprenticeship. Apprenticeships provide an invaluable opportunity to work alongside licensed professionals, gaining insights into the field’s nuances and perfecting their skills.

The combination of formal education and practical experience creates a well-rounded electrician ready to take on the challenges of the industry. This blend of knowledge and hands-on skill development sets the stage for a successful and fulfilling career in electrical applications.

What is the Curriculum of Formal Electrician Education?

Classroom Theoretical Learning

The formal education journey of an aspiring electrician kicks off in the classroom, where the foundations of electrical knowledge are laid. Through engaging lectures and interactive sessions, students dive into the theoretical aspects of the field. They unravel the principles that govern electrical systems, circuitry, and safety protocols.

Understanding electrical theory is akin to deciphering a complex puzzle that underlies every power network. Students grasp concepts like Ohm’s Law, voltage, current, and resistance, which are the building blocks of their future endeavors. This theoretical knowledge equips them with the mental tools to analyze electrical problems, troubleshoot issues, and design effective solutions.

Hands-on Laboratory Training

While theoretical learning is essential, the true magic happens in the hands-on laboratory sessions. Here, students apply the theoretical principles they’ve learned in the classroom to real-world scenarios. They gain practical experience working with actual electrical components, tools, and equipment.

In the lab, students wire circuits, configure control panels, and simulate electrical installations. They troubleshoot simulated faults, honing their problem-solving skills and learning to think on their feet. This experiential learning is invaluable as it bridges the gap between theory and practice. It transforms theoretical knowledge into muscle memory, empowering students to confidently tackle challenges once they’re out in the field.

Key Skills Taught

The comprehensive curriculum encompasses a range of skills crucial for an electrician’s success. Students emerge from the program with proficiency in:

• Wiring Techniques: Learning the art of precise wiring for different applications.
• Motor Control Circuits: Mastering the intricacies of controlling motors for various purposes.
• Instrumentation: Understanding the instruments used to measure and monitor electrical systems.
• Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs): Exploring the programming and applications of PLCs.
• Transformers: Delving into the operation and maintenance of transformers.
• AC and DC Circuits: Navigating alternating and direct current systems.

By the time students complete our program, they have acquired a versatile skill set that positions them as adept electricians. This combination of theoretical understanding, practical prowess, and a diverse skill set equips graduates to thrive in the complex and evolving field of electrical applications.

Final Thoughts

The future is undoubtedly electric, and the demand for skilled electricians continues to surge with unwavering momentum. As industries evolve, technology advances and energy demands grow, electricians play a pivotal role in ensuring that the lights never go out. The complex web of electrical systems that powers our lives requires expertise, precision, and dedication.

In this era of rapid change, Ohio Business College’s Electrician Trade Program in electrical applications emerges as a beacon of opportunity. It equips aspiring electricians with the knowledge and practical skills needed to excel in this dynamic field. Our program doesn’t just provide an education; it lays the foundation for a fulfilling and promising career. With a firm grasp of electrical theory and hands-on experience gained through rigorous lab work, graduates of the program are poised to tackle the challenges of the industry head-on. They become the architects of our electrified world, ensuring that power flows reliably and efficiently.

Want to Learn More?

The Electrician Diploma program at Ohio Business College is geared toward the hands-on training that you need to step right into the workforce as a junior electrician. Students learn theory in the classroom and then apply those skills in a lab setting, including the installation and maintenance of electrical wiring, transformers, a/c and d/c motor control circuits, instrumentation, and programmable logic controller, and more. 

Contact us today to learn more about our Electrician program today.