Electricity is everywhere, from homes and businesses to our vehicles. Because of this, it’s no surprise that electricians are always in demand – and with that demand, their job duties and earnings can grow over time. Pennco Tech offers an Electrician program at both our Bristol, PA, and Blackwood, NJ, campuses. Here, we’ll explore what you can expect from the electrician career path and your future in this field.

Key Takeaways

• Electricians start in entry-level positions and can work their way up to become master electricians.
• Each position centers around specialized skills and may require additional training or testing.
• Master electricians have the most experience and more responsibilities, which is why they earn more.
• Pennco Tech’s Electrician program, available at both campuses, combines hands-on lab training to prepare students for entry-level opportunities in the electrical trade.

What Does the Electrician Career Path Look Like?

Like many careers, the work of an electrician changes over time. This means that those just starting out and professionals with years of experience may have different titles and perform varying tasks. The typical career path goes as follows:

Entry-Level Positions and Apprentices

When you’re just starting out, you’ll mostly serve as an apprentice or assistant. Entry-level roles in the electrician field will focus on the basics, prioritizing safety and regulations, but you may help to install, repair, and maintain electrical systems under the supervision of a licensed electrician. In doing so, you will gain valuable experience and get access to their expertise.

Journeyman Electrician

Once you’ve passed the required exam, you will become a licensed journeyman electrician. One of the biggest differences in this role is that you’ll be performing the tasks without a supervising electrician by your side. This work may be done in residential, commercial, or governmental environments. These professionals take on a variety of responsibilities, including inspecting wiring for safety, servicing power lines, diagnosing problems in circuitry, installing security systems, and more.

Master Electrician

After the required training and experience, you may become a master electrician. These professionals must have a license and handle some of the same duties as journeyman electricians, but they will also be asked to install full electrical systems, develop blueprints, get resources together to fulfill jobs, and train or mentor those below them.

How Do Electrician Salaries and Skillsets Grow Over Time?

As one would expect, as the experience and expertise of an electrician increase, so, too, does the pay. Entry-level positions will start with lower salaries; however, journeymen electricians can expect a sizable increase in pay. Those who go on to become master electricians tend to see another generous wage increase. You can even earn more through overtime. Based on 2024 data, the annual mean wage for electricians is $80,090 in New Jersey, while in Pennsylvania, it is $73,510.

While no two jobs are the same, the top professionals in the industry tend to have some skills in common. First, it helps to be familiar with codes and regulations. This ensures that your work will be safe and meet legal requirements. The best electricians are also able to think on their feet. This means having a diagnostic mindset and being able to identify problems and design solutions. Another important skill you’ll need is clear communication. When dealing with electrical systems, it’s imperative that your customers understand any pertinent information. Over time, these skills evolve with the electrician’s experience, but one thing all professionals have in common is the education they must receive before venturing out into the field.

Why Choose Pennco Tech?

Pennco Tech prepares students for the life of an electrician, training them on the skills and concepts necessary to succeed. From practical, hands-on training in a lab environment to highly informative lessons from our professional instructors, our Electrician trade school program does not miss a beat. We even offer Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)-authorized outreach training, allowing students to receive their OSHA 10 certification and attend OSHA 30 training, something that is now required for those looking to work on government sites or in the city of Philadelphia, PA.

Find an Outstanding Electrician Program Near You in Pennsylvania or New Jersey

If you’re interested in getting the most out of your electrician career path, start your journey at Pennco Tech. We offer a comprehensive Electrician training program at both our Bristol, PA, campus and our Blackwood, NJ, campus, helping students jumpstart their careers. If you have any questions or would like to learn more, contact us today.

Electrician Program FAQ

What positions does Pennco Tech’s Electrician program prepare me for?

Pennco Tech graduates may take on roles as electricians, service technicians, electrical maintenance and installation specialists, solar photovoltaic technicians, and more.

How long will Pennco Tech’s Electrician program take to complete?

Our program can be completed in 26 weeks, and we offer both day and evening classes to help you fit your education in around your schedule.

What education do I need to enroll in the Electrician program at Pennco Tech?

Students will need a high school diploma, a general educational development (GED), or equivalent education.

Can Pennco Tech help with the cost of my electrician training?

Those who qualify may apply for financial aid to help with the cost of the program.

How can I find work after completing the Electrician program?

We offer lifetime career assistance* through our career services department. This helps current students, recent graduates, and alumni get help finding positions and preparing for the working world.

* Availability of lifetime career assistance is contingent upon continuous institutional operations.