Should You Recommend Your Son to Be an Electrician? Insights from a Trades Qualified Electrician
Would you recommend your son to be an electrician? Why or why not?
At 47, I am on the verge of transitioning to an engineering role within the electrical trade, and I have a wealth of experience as a trades-qualified electrician. Considering the future for my potential son, or any young adult interested in a career in the electrical industry, I would not discourage this path. Here are my thoughts and insights, based on my experience in the field.
Personal Experience and Advice
Given my current role and my background as a qualified electrician, I find myself in a unique position to provide guidance. Although I am not a parent myself, I would still offer helpful advice if presented with the scenario of having a son in the near future.
My primary recommendation is to choose a career based on strengths and personal interests rather than external pressures. It is crucial to let your son work towards his strengths. If he truly enjoys and excels in engineering or similar fields, his chances of becoming a successful and dedicated electrician are high. If he does not have a natural inclination towards these roles, it might be wiser for him to explore other opportunities where his skills can shine.
Challenges and Rewards in the Electrical Trade
Within the electrical trade, there are many roles, including leading hand electricians and supervisors, which can present unique challenges. Often, these roles require strong interpersonal skills and a natural leadership aptitude. However, not everyone fits into these roles, and that's perfectly okay. I would encourage any aspiring electrician to talk to me about my experience as a trades-qualified electrician. One aspect I may discuss is my personal living situation, which is different from many electricians. As I am not involved in the same community as many of my peers, this could potentially influence his decision about whether to pursue a similar path.
Comparing Trades and College
It's essential to understand that not everyone is college material, and that should not be seen as a reflection of one's intelligence or potential. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with many brilliant individuals who excel in various trades, including heavy equipment operators, carpenters, plumbers, and electricians. Success in these fields is not contingent on a college degree; rather, it is based on finding and following a path that aligns with one's strengths and interests.
For many, pursuing a trade is a viable and desirable option because it offers a stable and secure career. Being a tradesperson can provide financial stability, ensuring that one can keep food on the table and a roof over their head during challenging economic times. Moreover, being a tradesperson, especially within the electrical trade, can be rewarding due to the clean nature of the work and the physical demands being less strenuous than many other construction jobs.
Joining Unions for Long-Term Benefits
For those genuinely interested in pursuing a career in the electrical trade, joining a union such as the IBEW (International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers) early in their career can be highly beneficial. As a qualified electrician, I can attest that sticking with this path can provide numerous advantages, including obtaining almost anything one wants to buy and enjoying a comfortable retirement. Additionally, the experience and stories one gains from such a career are invaluable and worth treasuring.
In conclusion, recommending your son to become an electrician is a decision based on numerous factors, including his interests, strengths, and personal goals. While I am open to sharing my experience, it is ultimately up to him to choose a path that aligns with his aspirations and provides him with a fulfilling and secure career.