Nothing can replace the value of a college education. But after 4 years of hard work, students often learn a hard lesson: Their new career income will barely cover living and college loan expenses.

Becoming a journeyman electrician is hard work too. After years of on-the-job paid training, you’ll have a career you can be proud of. With no debt.

You’ve heard the expression, “Earn while you learn.” That’s how an apprenticeship program works. You work and train under a journeyman electrician for several years. You build skills, expertise, and knowledge along the way.

In Arizona, there are no licensing differentiators between “apprentice,” “journeyman,” or “master” electricians. A Phoenix electrician will either have a residential (R-11), commercial (C-11) license or both (CR-11). You can only work as an electrician under the supervision of someone who holds these licenses.

To become an electrical apprentice, a high school education is required. Classes in electricity, math, shop, or training in the U.S. Armed Forces are not required but helpful. To begin training as a journeyman electrician, you will need:

Experience needed to become an Arizona electrical contractor includes hands-on training and (supervised) electrical project management development. Remember, as a Journeyman Electrician you’ll need to work for someone with one of these licenses.

Licenses include:

It averages between 5-7 years of on-the-job training to become a journeyman electrician. Every year, as your expertise and competencies grow, you’ll advance in knowledge and skills.

Your first year will likely focus on:

…and more. In the following years you will receive training in:

…and more, followed by light commercial experience and training.

You want to earn above-average pay doing something exciting and filled with opportunities. You want to become a journeyman electrician. Now what?

You can either attend a trade school’s program or join a reputable company willing to provide on-the-job education and training (or both).

What should you look for in Phoenix or Tucson electrical contracting companies? Pay attention to the professionalism and appearance of the company headquarters, equipment, and employees. If their work trucks or vans are shabby and dirty (and if their employees are too), they may not offer the level of experience and professionalism you need.

Good electrical contractors offer:

There’s more to life than working for somebody. When you are passionate about your job, your company should work for you. Why wait? Contact 24/7 Local electrician.to learn more about becoming a journeyman electrician.