Entering a male-dominated industry can be difficult for women, especially in the electrical trade since women only make up around 1.2% of the workforce. However, this number does indicate a significant increase compared with ten years ago, so if you’re thinking of starting a career as an electrician, now is the time to do so.
With good job security, high earning potential, and a variety of tasks each day, there are plenty of reasons for women to become electricians but you may be wondering how to go about this. In this article, we’ll cover some of the major requirements to get into the electrical trade and how you can get the support you need in your career.
Initial considerations
Proficiency in circuitry and safety protocols is essential for electrical tasks. While you don’t need to reach university-level education to be an electrician, you will need some important qualifications.
Programmes and education institutions will often ask for GCSE qualifications to ensure your mathematics is up to scratch so either hunt down your old certificates or look to sit your exams. If you don’t feel up to studying again, there are other avenues you can go down.
Getting trained in the field
When looking to enhance your skills, you may be thinking of choosing between vocational training or an apprenticeship. A vocational course is specially designed to provide hands-on experience in technical trades, which is ideal if you consider yourself to be this type of learner. This is often delivered in short, intensive bursts of knowledge.
Apprenticeships, on the other hand, offer a more immersive experience that can be tailored to suit your career goals. Over the course of several years, you’ll be involved in a combination of classroom instruction and practical training under the supervision of experts in their field. You’ll also be able to earn a paycheck while learning your trade.
Relevant courses that could help you secure a trainee or apprenticeship position include:
- Level 2 Diploma in Access to Building Services Engineering (Electrical)
- Level 2 and Level 3 Diploma in Electrical Installation
- T Level in Building Services Engineering for Construction
When gaining experience, you’ll also want to get some equipment of your own. Make sure to invest in all the right tools like an electrical screwdriver, wire strippers, a cordless drill, pliers, and a voltage tester.
Finding opportunities
Once you’ve gained the skills needed to succeed as an electrician, it’s time to start looking for opportunities. Try to network with other women in the industry who can offer useful tips on how to find jobs – they may even suggest some opportunities that they’ve heard about.
Women are just as capable as men in the electrical industry so don’t hesitate to pursue opportunities that you believe align with your skills and interests. With hard work and dedication, you can become a highly successful electrician in the UK.
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