Education

To become a high voltage electrician, you’ll need to complete a high school diploma or GED. Following this, you’ll need to enroll in an electrical training program at a trade school or community college, where you’ll learn about electrical theory, safety practices, and blueprint reading. These programs typically take 1-2 years to complete and often include hands-on training to familiarize you with real-world electrical systems.

 

Complete an Apprenticeship

Once you’ve completed your education, you’ll need to participate in an apprenticeship program to gain the necessary experience. These programs usually last 4-5 years and involve both classroom instruction and on-the-job training under the supervision of a licensed electrician. As a high voltage electrician apprentice, you’ll learn about the installation, maintenance, and repair of high voltage electrical systems.

 

Obtain Licensure and Certification

After completing your apprenticeship, you’ll need to obtain a state-specific electrician’s license by passing an exam that tests your knowledge of electrical theory, codes, and safety practices. Some states may also require a separate high voltage electrician certification, which demonstrates your expertise in working with high voltage systems.

 

Income and Job Growth

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for electricians as of May 2021 was $60,040, with the highest 10% earning more than $98,000 per year. High voltage electricians, given their specialized skills and training, can potentially earn even higher wages. The BLS projects a 7% growth rate for electricians’ employment from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations. The demand for skilled electricians is expected to grow due to the increasing need for electrical infrastructure maintenance and the expansion of alternative energy sources like wind and solar power.

 

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