A great career option for individuals who want to work with their hands, obtain a high level of technical knowledge, and be their own boss is that of an electrical contractor. However, it’s not all sunshine and roses. There are going to be a lot of things you’re accountable for if you want to become an electrician.
The first thing you need to do is acquire four years of experience in the trade. There are often union apprenticeships you can take part in, but you won’t be earning the big bucks right away. You also need experience in sales and having some in business management also doesn’t hurt.
You also need to pass a test, sometimes more than one, to get your license. The rules vary from state to state. In some places, like California, you only need to test for your contractor’s license. In others, you need to take additional tests to prove you know the fundamentals. Taking these licensing exams can cost thousands of dollars.
To actually start your business, you need a name, phone number, and address. You need to invest in marketing and build your network. For more helpful tips, check out the video above.