Changing careers is a significant decision, and if you’re considering a shift, the electrical industry offers a promising and rewarding path. In the UK, becoming an electrician opens doors to various opportunities and benefits that make it an excellent choice for those looking for a stable and dynamic career. Here’s a detailed look at why you should consider becoming an electrician and how Total Skills can help you achieve this goal.
High Demand and Job Security
One of the most compelling reasons to become an electrician is the high demand for skilled professionals in the UK. The electrical industry is experiencing a skills shortage, with an estimated need for over 130,000 new electricians in the next decade. This demand ensures job security and abundant opportunities for work, whether you’re looking to join a company or start your own business.
Competitive Salary
Electricians in the UK enjoy competitive salaries that often increase with experience and specialisation. As a trainee electrician, you can expect to earn between £14 to and £18 per hour. With experience, this can rise significantly, with many electricians earning upwards of £25 per hour. Specialisations in areas such as renewable energy, smart home technology, and EV charger installation can further boost your earning potential.
Diverse Work Opportunities
The role of an electrician is incredibly diverse, offering a variety of work environments and specialisations. You can work in residential, commercial, or industrial settings, each with its unique challenges and rewards. The rise of smart home technology, renewable energy systems, and electric vehicles has expanded the scope of work for electricians, providing exciting new areas to explore and specialise in.
Independence and Flexibility
A career as an electrician offers a high degree of independence and flexibility. Many electricians choose to work as self-employed contractors, allowing them to set their schedules and choose their projects. This flexibility is particularly appealing for those looking to balance work with personal commitments or other interests.
Opportunities for Advancement
The electrical industry offers numerous opportunities for career advancement. With additional training and experience, you can move into supervisory or managerial roles, or even start your own electrical contracting business. Continuous professional development is encouraged, with many electricians pursuing further qualifications in specialised areas to enhance their skills and career prospects.
Steps to Becoming an Electrician
Transitioning to a career as an electrician involves several key steps, and Total Skills is here to guide you through the process. Here’s a general outline of the path to becoming a qualified electrician in the UK:
- Obtain the Necessary Qualifications:
Start with foundational courses such as the City & Guilds Level 2 Diploma in Electrical Installations. This course covers the basic principles and practices of electrical work, providing a solid foundation for further training.
- Advance Your Skills:
Progress to the City & Guilds Level 3 Diploma in Electrical Installations. This advanced course delves deeper into complex electrical systems and prepares you for higher-level qualifications and responsibilities.
- Gain Practical Experience:
Practical experience is crucial in becoming a competent electrician. Total Skills offers hybrid learning options that combine online theory with hands-on practice, allowing you to gain the necessary experience at your own pace.
- Specialise:
Consider specialising in areas such as solar PV and battery storage, EV charger installation, or smart home technology. Specialisations can enhance your career prospects and earning potential.
- Achieve Full Qualification:
Complete the City & Guilds 2357 NVQ and the AM2 assessment to become a fully qualified electrician. These qualifications demonstrate your competence and readiness to work independently in the field.
Total Skills: Your Partner in Electrical Training
Total Skills is dedicated to helping you achieve your career goals with comprehensive and flexible training options. Here’s why Total Skills is the best choice for your electrical training:
- Flexible Learning Options:
Choose from online, home study, or classroom-based courses to fit your schedule and learning style. The hybrid learning model for the Level 2 and Level 3 Diplomas combines online theory with practical training at their Nottingham centre, offering unparalleled flexibility.
- Experienced Instructors:
Learn from highly experienced trainers who are dedicated to your success. They provide personalised guidance and support throughout your training journey.
- Affordable Payment Plans:
Take advantage of affordable payment plans, including interest-free options with no credit checks. This financial flexibility ensures you can invest in your future without financial strain.
- Industry-Relevant Training:
Courses are designed to meet the standards of major industry bodies like JIB, NICEIC, and NAPIT, ensuring you receive industry-relevant training that prepares you for real-world challenges.
