We're asked the question, " How do I become an electrician?" so often and by so many students, parents and guidance counselors.  While the following is electrician trade-specific, there are a number of points which transfer nicely to a discussion of any of the apprenticeable skilled trades. 

Generally speaking, there are two traditional routes to become an electrician: job first or trade school first. 

If you choose to find a job first, you will:

1. Find a local electrician employer and receive on-the-job mentorship to learn the tricks of the trade
2. Approach your employer about sponsoring you as an apprentice
3. Apply to trade school for your levels 1, 2, 3 training.
4. After years on the job and successful completion of levels 1, 2 & 3, you can  write your certificate of qualifications exam. Congratulations! You are now a licensed journeyperson.

If you choose trade school first, a person can apply to trade school and then find an employer who will sponsor your apprenticeship. Students can start out with a college pre-apprenticeship training program, often being granted a certificate (usually covers levels 1 & 2), but students will still need to then merge that theory with the practice of an apprenticeship.  Here’s a link to the Georgian College electrical programs for more information.

Electricians require 9000 on the job hours & in-class trade school levels 1, 2 & 3, before they can take their certificate of qualification exam. It's recommended that students try to find their apprenticeship sponsor first, get the hands-on experience and then ace the level 1.

There are no rules about which need to come first: job first or trade school first. Some students have no luck getting an employer first so they go to college to start their training. Others want to check out the college program to see if an electrical apprenticeship is their cup of tea. 

Whichever route you take to becoming an electrician in Simcoe County & Muskoka, know that this trade is currently in demand, offers job security and high earning power. Local electricians are on the job site early, and sometimes stay late.  Your own transportation is a definite advantage when seeking this career pathway.

Here’s the training standard for electrician 309A.  It’s an incredible resource, as it gives an overview of the entire apprenticeship training, as well as individual skills and competencies electrician apprentices will have to practice before they write their Certificate of Qualification exam.

Some of our local partners: 

• Barrie Construction Association
• Brian's Little Electric
• Simcoe County Homebuilders Association
• Georgian College