THE LIFE OF AN ELECTRICAL APPRENTICE: OUR MOST ASKED QUESTIONS

Embarking on an electrician apprenticeship is the first step towards a fulfilling and lifelong career in the electrical industry. But first, to become a qualified electrician, you have to do your time as a student. Life as an apprentice isn’t always easy, but it’s worth it in the long run. Your future career in an exciting field will make you glad you stuck it out.

If you’re interested in an electrical career, we’ve put together a list of our most asked questions to help you understand the realities of life as an electrical apprentice. If you want to know more, you can always get in touch with us, and our friendly team will be happy to help.

IS IT WORTH DOING AN ELECTRICAL PRE-APPRENTICESHIP?

As an entry-level training program, an electrical pre-apprenticeship is a great stepping-stone into the industry of your choice. Completing this course will equip you with knowledge and skills that build a strong foundation for your career as an electrician.

There are many benefits of doing a pre-aprenticeship, but overall it’s an excellent opportunity to get your foot in the industry’s door while getting a taste of your future.

You’ll also learn while on the job and build vital safety skills.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM MY ELECTRICAL APPRENTICESHIP?

Your electrical apprenticeship will qualify you to become a working electrician. These training programs take around 4 years to complete, and you will graduate with practical skills and knowledge and real-life experience.

Your electrician apprentice program will include paid work under experienced electricians’ supervision and formal structured training. As an apprentice or trainee, you will need to enter into a formal training contract with an employer, enabling you to complete training towards your qualification. During this time, you will work and learn practical skills on the job, and you will spend some time undertaking structured, more traditional training with a registered training provider.

At CET, classes run from 8am to 4pm Monday through to Friday. Most sparkies start their days early, around 7am, so you’ll have to get used to early mornings in various weather conditions.

WHAT DO YOU LEARN IN AN ELECTRICAL APPRENTICESHIP

At the College of Electrical Training, we offer a range of electrician apprentice pathways that caters to the entire electrical industry. From Data and Voice Communication (UEE30411), Electro-technology Training (UEE30811) and Electrical Fitting (UEE33011) — our nationally endorsed qualifications will equip you with the industry knowledge and skills to assist in completing your apprenticeship.

IS BEING AN ELECTRICAL APPRENTICE HARD?

An electrical apprenticeship is challenging but also extremely rewarding. As an electrical apprentice, you will acquire many technical knowledge and new skills and continue building on them throughout your career. If you are physically fit, possess fine motor skills, enjoy problem-solving and are a hands-on learner, you are well-equipped for the road ahead.

If you’re considering taking the first step toward a career in the electrical field, you can learn about the 5 common traits of successful electrical apprentices.

HOW DO I PREPARE FOR AN ELECTRICAL APPRENTICESHIP?

Although you technically don’t have to prepare before becoming an apprentice electrician, your training will give you the skills you need. Your future employer may look for specific skills before offering you an aprenticeship, such as a sense of responsibility, excellent communication, teamwork and professionalism.

A pre-apprenticeship is the best way to be prepared for an electrical apprenticeship. You will be equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to build a strong foundation for a fulfilling career.

HOW MUCH DO 1ST-YEAR APPRENTICES EARN?

One of the benefits of the apprenticeship program is that you can make money while you learn. As an apprentice, your wages will depend on various factors, including your level of education and training and your technical skills.

Let’s be real here, while you’re studying, the money isn’t great, but the benefits that come from being a student can help you financially. It’s important not to be discouraged by the lower pay initially, as electrical apprenticeships are a unique chance to earn while you learn. Most people still studying aren’t offered this opportunity.

Once you are a qualified electrician, the average annual salary for Electrician jobs in WA ranges from $100k to $150k.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER YOU COMPLETE AN ELECTRICIAN’S APPRENTICESHIP?

Once your training and apprenticeship is complete, you’ll need to apply for a license to work unsupervised to be eligible for employment or even make a start on your own. During your apprenticeship, it’s not uncommon for your supervisor to offer you regular employment if they’re impressed with your work ethic and skill.

You can also apply for jobs through recruitment networks or websites like Seek, connect with recruitment agencies or apply directly with a company.

Find out more about your journey from pre-apprenticeship to a fulfilling career.

KICK START YOUR ELECTRICAL CAREER AT CET

Think you’ve got what it takes to become an electrician? Get started on your journey to an exciting career path with an electrical apprenticeship today.

Enquire now about electrical apprenticeship opportunities at CET.

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