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Texas is ranked as the one of the best states for skilled trades professionals in the country, with the average electrician earning a competitive salary of $53,080 as of May 2021.*
If you’re interested in pursuing a career as an electrician in Houston, TX, you’re probably wondering how long it takes to enter the field and become an electrician.
Where do you study to become an electrician?
You need to develop specific expertise before you can work as a skilled trades professional.
Unlike more conventional roles that demand a four-year degree or higher education, the skilled trades offer an alternative to college. In general, electricians have two educational choices in Houston: apprenticeship or trade school.
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Both training paths provide individuals with the electrician skills and knowledge needed to pursue a career in the field, but there are some key differences to keep in mind when making your decision.
Understanding these variations can make it easier to determine the best educational route based on your goals and personal preferences.
Apprenticeship
During an apprenticeship, aspiring electricians will work alongside an industry professional to learn the ropes of the role. This approach heavily emphasizes in-field learning and real-world experience.
There’s supplemental classroom learning, but the focus remains on hands-on training. The unique feature of an apprenticeship is being under the wing of an experienced electrician who will give you guidance and support in the role so you can learn directly from an expert.
Trade School in Houston
Another popular training route for electricians in Houston is a trade school.
These educational institutions offer targeted programs designed to equip students with a specific set of skills to prepare them for highly specialized positions. Trade programs are common in skilled trades careers, including in the electrical field.
Students undergo hands-on training to develop the technical capabilities required to become qualified in the profession. Unlike apprenticeships where participants work directly under a single electrician, trade school students are taught by various experienced professionals.
How long does it take to become an electrician in Houston, TX?
Now that you have a better understanding of the different training options to become an electrician, you’re probably wondering, “How long is electrician school in Houston?”
Most electricians can enter the job market quicker than with a standard four-year degree. However, the length of apprenticeships and trade schools differ slightly. An electrician apprenticeship in Texas lasts anywhere between one to five years, with the majority hovering around the three-to-five-year mark.
On the other hand, trade schools in Texas tend to last only one to two years. This means participants can get the hands-on training, real-world experience, and specialized skills needed to enter into the field as capable electricians within just a few years.
Some trade school programs for electricians are even under a year. For example, Tulsa Welding School offers an Electrical Applications program that students can complete in as little as seven months.
How long does it take to get certified as an electrician?
Like many states, Texas has specific requirements electricians must meet in order to work legally.
There’s no statewide standard for licensing in Houston, so professionals have to consult the rules of the specific counties or regions where they want to work. Generally, Texas requires electricians to become “certified” or “registered” to obtain licensing requirements.
Most electrician programs and apprenticeships equip professionals with all the skills and knowledge needed to meet the licensing demands anywhere in the state.
Career advancement doesn’t stop after aspiring electricians graduate from trade school or an apprenticeship.
Electricians can further their careers by acquiring new skills and requirements to become master electricians. Some opt for a different route to become project managers or supervisors.
Where to go to school to be an electrician in Houston, TX?
If you’re wondering where to go to school to be an electrician in Houston, TX, you should consider attending the Tulsa Welding School. We offer a comprehensive Electrical Applications program in Houston, Texas that equips students with the skills, experience, and knowledge they need to start a successful career as an electrician.
You can contact one of the TWS team members to learn more about the program. We can answer any questions you have about the program. Call (855) 806-4921 today to get started.
*Average starting salary for Electrical Applications not yet reported for TWSTC graduates employed during the 12 month period of 7/1/20-6/30/21.
