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How to Become an Electrician in Oklahoma

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Becoming a skilled electrician opens doors to a variety of rewarding career opportunities. In this blog, we'll explore the path to becoming an electrician, including electrician school, job prospects, and salary expectations.

Key Points

  • Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems across various settings, ensuring safety and compliance with regulations.
  • To become an electrician in Oklahoma, you must complete a high school diploma, finish an apprenticeship, and pass the journeyman licensing exam.
  • Electrician training typically involves 2 to 4 years of formal education combined with hands-on apprenticeship experience.
  • In Oklahoma, the average licensed electrician salary is $59,750 per year.

Career Paths and Opportunities after Becoming an Electrician

Becoming a certified electrician opens up a wide range of career paths and opportunities. Here are some examples of the different career paths you can pursue after becoming an electrician:

  1. Residential Electrician: As a residential electrician, you would focus on installing, repairing, and maintaining electrical systems in residential buildings. This can include working on new construction projects, as well as performing electrical upgrades and repairs in existing homes.

  2. Commercial Electrician: Commercial electricians work on electrical systems in commercial buildings, such as office buildings, retail stores, and industrial facilities. This can involve installing and maintaining electrical equipment, troubleshooting electrical issues, and ensuring compliance with safety codes and regulations.

  3. Industrial Electrician: Industrial electricians specialize in working on electrical systems in industrial settings, such as factories, power plants, and manufacturing facilities. They may be responsible for installing and maintaining heavy machinery, troubleshooting complex electrical systems, and ensuring the safe operation of industrial equipment.

  4. Maintenance Electrician: Maintenance electricians focus on the ongoing maintenance and repair of electrical systems. They may work in a variety of settings, including residential, commercial, and industrial. Maintenance electricians are responsible for troubleshooting electrical issues, performing routine maintenance tasks, and ensuring the safe and efficient operation of electrical systems.

  5. Electrical Contractor: Some electricians choose to start their own electrical contracting business. This allows them to take on a variety of projects and work for a wide range of clients. Starting your own electrical contracting business requires not only technical skills but also business acumen and the ability to manage projects and teams.

  6. Specialized Electrician: As an electrician, you can choose to specialize in a specific area of electrical work. For example, you could specialize in renewable energy systems, such as solar panel installation. Other specialty areas include home automation systems, electrical vehicle charging stations, or fire alarm systems. Specializing in a specific area can provide you with unique job opportunities and the potential for higher earnings.

  7. Electrical Inspector: Electrical inspectors are responsible for inspecting electrical installations to ensure they meet safety codes and regulations. They may work for government agencies, construction companies, or consulting firms. Becoming an electrical inspector typically requires additional training and certification beyond the basic electrician certification.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a licensed electrician make in Oklahoma?

As of May 2023, the average annual salary for a licensed electrician in Oklahoma is $59,750, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This figure can vary based on factors such as experience, specialization, and the specific employer. Electricians with more experience or those who work in specialized areas may earn higher salaries.

How to get an electrician's license in Oklahoma?

To obtain an electrician's license in Oklahoma, you must first complete a high school diploma or GED and then enter a state-approved apprenticeship program to gain practical experience. After completing the apprenticeship, you must pass the journeyman electrician licensing exam administered by the Oklahoma Construction Industries Board. Once you pass the exam and meet all other requirements, you can apply for your license by submitting the necessary application and fees. Continuing education may also be required to maintain your license.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a certified electrician requires a combination of education, practical experience, and passing a certification exam. Once you have obtained your certification, there are a variety of career paths and opportunities available to you. Whether you choose to work as a residential, commercial, or industrial electrician, start your own contracting business, or specialize in a specific area, being an electrician can provide you with a stable and fulfilling career.

Remember to continue learning and staying updated on industry trends to remain competitive and enhance your skills as an electrician. Good luck on your journey to becoming a certified electrician!

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Keziah Lim
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Keziah Lim
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