5 Things You May Not Know About Electricians

Our society is driven by electricity. Everything we do or have needs to be charged or plugged in to work. So, when increased amperage or a new circuit breaker is needed, we don't tackle jobs like those. We call an electrician.

Often overlooked because they seem to blend in with society, electricians have some surprising statistics. Here are five:

1. Did you know that to become what is known as a Master Electrician takes almost as much time as it takes to become a doctor? Learning about all things electrical is serious business; and it takes many courses and tests to rise in the ranks.
2. As with the medical field, electricians can specialize in one of four areas. A residential electrician is who you call when you need help in your home. Commercial electricians service businesses, big and small. Industrial electricians handle more advanced technologies such as generators and whole control systems. Then there are the outside linemen who work for the utility companies helping to restore power after a storm.
3. Electricians need to have good analytical skills. Not only that but they must become familiar with state and local codes, read blueprints, and technical graphics. Being organized and good at working under pressure are pluses, too.
4. Electricians need to be physically fit. Not all wires and circuit breakers are within arm’s length. Often the job requires crawling into attics, crawl spaces and up utility poles, so electricians have to be able to handle it.
5. Electricians are transforming their landscape. Many recognize the significance of solar power, LED lighting, and other newer electric technologies and are helping residents and businesses to incorporate these money-saving approaches into their homes and occupations. These "blue collar" workers are helping their communities to go green. One light bulb at a time.