How to Become an Electrician & Make $60/Hour

I’ve been seeing so many people ask about skilled trades and y’all, becoming an electrician is one of the most reliable, high-paying paths out there. You don’t need a college degree, but you DO need to know what steps to take. So here’s the real breakdown 👇

Step 1: Understand What Electricians Actually Do

Electricians install, repair, and maintain electrical systems in homes, businesses, and industrial buildings. You could be:

• Fixing wiring issues

• Installing new light systems

• Working on power grids

• Or even doing smart home installs

There are 3 levels:

• Apprentice in training

• Journeyman licensed to work solo

• Master Electrician high-level expertise & supervisor

Step 2: Finish High School or Get Your GED.

Most apprenticeships require at least a high school diploma or GED. You’ll need:

• Basic math (algebra, geometry)

• Reading comprehension

• Problem-solving skills

if you’ve already taken a tech ed class or pre-apprenticeship program in high school.

Step 3: Find an Apprenticeship (Paid Training)

You don’t need college you earn while you learn.

Options: Apply through a union (IBEW - International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers) or non-union program. Find local apprenticeships through community colleges or job boards

How long?

• Usually 4–5 years

• You get 8,000 hours on the job + 600-1,000 hours in classroom training. You get paid while you train. First-year apprentices usually make $16–$24/hour.

Step 4: Get Licensed or Certified Depending on State. Each state has its own requirements, but most require you to

• Pass a Journeyman Exam

• Complete your apprenticeship hours

• Apply for a license through your state board

Some states require continued education to keep your license current.

Step 5: Start Working and Growing That Paycheck

Journeymen typically earn $30–$45/hour, depending on

• Your location

• Experience

• If you’re union or non union

• If you’re in construction, residential, or industrial

Get additional certifications solar, automation, fiber optics. Become a Master Electrician. Start your own business that’s where the $60–$100/hr jobs are

Realistic Timeline to $60/hr

Year 1-2: Apprentice – $16–$25/hr

Year 3-4: Late Apprentice – $25–$35/hr

Year 5+: Journeyman – $35–$50/hr

Year 7+: Master / Specialty / Self-Employed – $60+/hr

If you go union, you’ll hit $60/hr faster with benefits pension, healthcare, job security.

Where to Apply

Union apprenticeships: www.ibew.org

Non-union programs: NECA, ABC Associated Builders and Contractors

Community colleges: Check your local trade school or college website

Job boards: Indeed, Apprenticeship.gov, your state’s labor department

Tools You’ll Eventually Need. Some jobs provide them, some don’t

• Multimeter

• Wire strippers

• Voltage tester

• Conduit benders

• Screwdrivers, drills, etc.

Expect to invest around $500–$1,000 over time in tools.

Is This Job for You?

You like working with your hands

You don’t want student loans

You like problem solving

You want a job that pays well and can’t be outsourced

It’s hard work but if you’re hungry, it’s life-changing work.

If you’re interested, don’t wait. Most people just don’t know where to start and this post IS the starting point.

Even if you’re 30, 40, or changing careers trades are in demand, and good electricians stay booked and busy.

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