Electrical and Electronics Trades
Career Catalog
Electrical and Electronics Trades
Work with power controls communications and electronic systems
Electrical and electronics careers keep power, communications, controls and critical equipment working safely. You might wire homes or large buildings, build utility lines, install fiber, maintain factory systems, calibrate instruments or test the equipment that protects the power grid. Some of these careers have well-established apprenticeships; others are reached through employer training, technical education, military experience or a related degree.
Understand the main electrician pathways
- Electrician gives you a broad overview before you compare more specific branches
- Inside Wireman covers commercial and industrial building work; commercial electrician is included here rather than repeated as a separate page
- Residential Electrician corresponds with the Residential Wireman apprenticeship specialty and focuses on homes and dwellings
- Outside Lineworker corresponds with Outside Lineman and focuses on the electric-power grid
- Telecommunications Installer Technician includes the VDV and low-voltage pathway for voice, data, video and related systems
What is an apprenticeship
An apprenticeship is a paid job where you learn from experienced workers and take related classes. In a Registered Apprenticeship, your training follows an approved plan and your pay usually increases as your skills grow. Electrical apprenticeship titles and licensing outcomes differ, so ask the sponsor which occupation, work processes, credential and license preparation the program provides.
