master electrician

A master electrician is a very skilled person in the electrical field. They advanced from a journeyman level through extra training and licensing. A master electrician has finished the required apprenticeship and journeyman stages. They have also passed a challenging exam. It tests their understanding of the National Electrical Code (NEC) and covers electrical theory and its practical use.

This achievement reflects their comprehensive training and expertise in the field. They need to have skills in electrical systems. They also need management abilities. They need them to supervise journeymen. They undergo education in project management, safety regulations, and more complex electrical skills.

As a master electrician, you may run your own business or work as a contractor. It’s a versatile and rewarding career path. Master electricians are experts in electricity. They oversee projects and train other electricians. Their leadership and skills are vital in the industry.

If you are interested in this career, you must know how to become a master electrician. You must also understand the key skills required, typical earnings, and future job prospects. 

How to become a master electrician

Here are the steps you can take to become a master electrician:

1. Complete High School or Get a GED

To become a master electrician, finish high school and get your diploma or GED. It is a standard requirement in the US and many other places. However, some states may need a math skill demonstration. It is often done by passing a high school algebra course.

Are you in high school, or do you need to get your diploma? If so, it’s crucial to focus on this milestone. In most cases, a GED is the minimum education required to qualify for an apprentice electrician job. This educational foundation sets the stage for your journey. It will help you become a skilled electrical professional.

2. Get admission to trade school 

Trade school is a starting point for those who aim to become master electricians. Instructors at trade schools teach electrical basics and emphasize job safety. You’ll complete at least 144 hours of classroom instruction as an apprentice electrician. Gain hands-on experience with 2,000 to 4,000 hours of fieldwork.

The typical duration for electrician trade school programs is 48 weeks. Pre-apprenticeship programs offer extra hands-on learning opportunities. Trade schools often assist in job placement with employers post-graduation. Apprenticeship periods can extend to two years for continued learning on the job.

3. Explore Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees 

You don’t need a college degree to become a master electrician. But having a bachelor’s or master’s degree speeds up the process. A relevant bachelor’s degree might require about three and a half years of work experience. A master’s degree could reduce this to two years. Some related majors include:

• Aerospace engineering
• Computer engineering 
• Energy systems engineering
• Environmental engineering.

Higher education shortens the time to become a master electrician. It also opens doors to advanced roles and leadership in the electrical industry.

4. Begin Your Journey with Apprenticeship

It is the initial step in a master electrician career. At this stage, an experienced electrician supervises the apprentice in a classroom. They teach basic electrical tasks. Many beginners start their careers in apprenticeship programs. Unions or contractor associations offer them. These programs usually run for four to five years.

Get experience as a journeyman electrician.

To become a journeyman electrician, you need 8000–10,000 hours of experience, including trade schools and apprenticeships. Journeyman electricians play a crucial role. They perform various electrical procedures and have skills in reading electrical blueprints.

To become a journeyman, candidates must pass written and practical exams. They show the candidates’ skills and understanding of safety rules in electrical work. After getting licensed, journeyman electricians work under master electricians for two more years. It helps with skill development and exposure to complex projects.

The journeyman must work hard. They need 17,500 hours of hands-on experience before taking the master electrician exam. It showcases their commitment to professional growth and excellence in the electrical field.

Get a master electrician license. 

You need a license to be a master electrician. The license tests your electrical skills, like making blueprints and knowing the equipment, working with complex systems, and a thorough background check. It ensures that applicants meet our professional standards.

Some states may also stress “good moral standing.” This requires references or letters of recommendation. After you get your master electrician’s license, you gain new opportunities and responsibilities. These go beyond those at the journeyman level. They reflect your expertise and commitment to excellence in the electrical industry.

How long does it take to become a master electrician?

There are three levels of electricians: apprentices, journeymen, and masters. Many electricians are happy as journeymen. But those aiming for a master electrician’s salary have good reasons to pursue higher levels. Becoming a licensed electrician takes about four or five years, but prior experience or training can shorten this time.

You might progress faster if you’ve attended trade school or have construction or military experience. For instance, finishing a technical school program can reduce apprentice time. Usually, it takes about six years to become a journeyman. It takes around seven years to become a master electrician. Some may take up to ten years. Remember that dedication and ongoing learning are crucial to success in this field.