Trade jobs are a great option for people who enjoy working with their hands. This type of job requires a specialized skill set earned through vocational training. The day-to-day work is often challenging but rewarding, and they receive good pay as a reflection of the specialized skills they require.

Electrician is among the highest paying trade school jobs. Pennco Tech provides an Electrician program and others at campuses in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Here, we discuss the electrician trade and what students can expect from our electrician program and beyond.

What Is a Trade Job?

Trade careers are those that emphasize technical ability. They include hands-on jobs such as a plumber, automotive repair, HVAC installer, or electrician. Rather than a four-year bachelor’s degree from a university, these skill sets are gained through a trade program or vocational school.

Trade programs typically take anywhere from eight weeks to two years to complete, depending on the school and the trade. Many programs incorporate a significant percentage of hands-on training. They can go on to earn a wage while gaining valuable on-the-job experience to supplement their education.

Electrician Job Outlook in Pennsylvania and New Jersey

Electrician is currently among the highest-paying trade careers. According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data, pay for electricians in New Jersey and Pennsylvania averages between $72,080 and $88,860 each year.

In addition, the field has a positive projected outlook. BLS predicts a national growth of 6% through 2032 – faster than the national average for all careers. Around 73,500 new job openings are created annually. While many of these positions are in major cities and population centers, electricians are needed everywhere in the nation.

These statistics are promising for electricians entering the industry. With so many new openings across the country, there are many opportunities for new electricians to secure a placement. The high demand also means good job security. Once you secure a position, you are likely to hold onto it.

What Do Electricians Do?

Electricians are trade workers who specialize in installing and maintaining electrical systems. This may include power, lighting, communications, or control systems – anything that uses electricity and wiring. Much of an electrician’s work is hands-on. While duties vary between employers, they often include:

• Reading and interpreting blueprints and technical diagrams
• Inspecting electrical components such as transformers and circuit breakers
• Troubleshooting and identifying problems using a range of testing devices
• Using hand and power tools to install, repair, and replace equipment or fixtures
• Communicating with building owners, managers, and other workers
• Following local and state building regulations

Many electricians work alone. However, they may collaborate with others at times. Electricians hired by a large construction firm are likely to work with a team. Even independent electricians may occasionally work with architects to design electrical systems, consult with an HVAC specialist while installing new components, or describe wiring problems to the building manager while determining a solution. This means that communication skills are often beneficial.

Electricians also work in the construction industry. They may install systems for a new project or repair systems in an existing building. The site may be residential, commercial, or industrial. Electricians may work on different types of sites throughout their careers. This variety means work is seldom boring.

What to Expect from Electrician Trade School

Pennco Tech requires a minimum of a high school diploma or general education development (GED) diploma. Qualified students can enroll year-round to begin training at the start of the very next term.

Our electrician program prioritizes hands-on learning. Knowledgeable instructors provide personalized, one-on-one direction to help each student master the abilities they will use as working electricians. Our instructors have extensive experience in the industry, allowing them to provide helpful insights into the skills and qualities employers most value. We also use up-to-date software and resources to supplement our instruction with the fundamentals and theories of wiring.

The program takes only 26 weeks to complete. In less than half a year, students can be ready to take their certification exam and enter the workforce as fully-fledged electricians.

Become an Electrician with Training at Pennco Tech

Are you interested in joining one of the highest paying trade school jobs? Consider enrolling in the electrician trade program at Pennco Tech. Our electrician program is available at both of our campuses in Bristol, PA, and Blackwood, NJ. We also offer lifetime career services to help you secure a job placement after graduation. Contact us to learn more about our admissions process or financial aid opportunities for students who qualify.