Did you know that, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 700,000 jobs were available for electricians in 2021? Electricians play a vital role in residential and commercial settings, helping with everything from fixing in-home lighting to wiring large-scale buildings.
But what exactly does an electrician do? And how can you start a career in this field? Keep reading to find out.
What Is an Electrician?
Electricians are skilled tradespeople who design, install, maintain, and repair electrical wiring systems. They work in various settings, including homes, commercial buildings, and industrial sites. Electricians handle electrical systems of all sizes, from small outlets to large machinery.
The scope of their work often depends on their expertise and specialization. Some electricians focus on intricate details like residential wiring, while others work on larger equipment or commercial systems.
Types of Electricians: Residential vs. Commercial
Electricians generally fall into two primary categories:
1. Residential Electricians
2. Commercial Electricians
Both categories involve specialized training and skills, but their responsibilities differ significantly.
Residential Electricians
Residential electricians focus on electrical systems in homes. Their responsibilities might include:
• Installing and maintaining lighting fixtures
• Repairing electrical panels and surge protectors
• Diagnosing and resolving wiring issues
• Following technical blueprints to ensure compliance with safety codes
Becoming a residential electrician requires training, documented work experience, and licensing, which vary depending on state requirements.
Commercial Electricians
Commercial electricians handle electrical systems in large public or private buildings, such as malls, offices, and factories. Their duties may include:
• Wiring large-scale electrical systems
• Installing control panels and machinery
• Conducting regular system maintenance and repairs
Commercial electricians often work with three-phase electrical systems, which require advanced training and knowledge compared to residential systems.
Key Differences Between Residential and Commercial Electricians
Though both types of electricians share some basic skills, here are five major differences to keep in mind:
1. Scope of Services
Residential electricians focus on smaller-scale projects like homes and apartments, while commercial electricians handle larger, more complex systems.
2. Equipment and Supplies
• Residential systems typically use single-phase wiring (120-240 volts).
• Commercial systems often use three-phase wiring (up to 480 volts) with heavier-duty cables and insulation.
3. Technical Training
Commercial electricians require additional training in phase balancing and industrial-grade control systems.
4. Project Size
Residential electricians handle individual homes, while commercial electricians work on larger projects like office buildings and manufacturing plants.
5. Regulations and Compliance
Both types of electricians must adhere to strict safety standards. Commercial electricians face additional regulations due to the scale and complexity of their projects.
How to Become an Electrician in California
In California, aspiring electricians must follow specific steps to work legally in the field. Here’s an overview:
1. Education and Training
Enroll in a state-approved program, such as the Electrical Training Program at InterCoast Colleges. InterCoast offers a hybrid program that combines online and in-person learning, making it convenient for students with busy schedules.
2. Electrical Trainee Card
You’ll need an Electrical Trainee card issued by the California Department of Industrial Relations. This allows you to gain the required work hours under a licensed contractor.
3. Work Experience
Accumulate 8,000 hours of on-the-job experience to qualify for the Journeyman Electrician examination.
4. Licensing Exam
Pass the California Journeyman examination to become a licensed electrician.
Note: InterCoast provides training to help prepare students for the Journeyman exam but does not issue licenses directly.
Why Choose InterCoast Colleges?
InterCoast Colleges is approved by the California Department of Industrial Relations and offers programs tailored to meet the needs of aspiring electricians. With hands-on training and flexible scheduling, InterCoast can help you gain the skills needed for a career in this growing field.
Start Your Journey Today
Electricians are essential today, ensuring that homes and businesses function safely and efficiently. Interested in starting your career? Click here to learn more about InterCoast’s Electrical Training Program.
