45, Am I too old to be Electrician?!

stom · Apr 8, 2018

Hi everyone,
After having long conversation with my wife, I decided to take on C&G 2365 level 2 evening course, really want to be an electrician, already have HND in electrical engineering back in 2011, but due to family reason gave up to higher education.
But I am very dedicated and with strong work ethic, at moment working full time at supermarket, even work 39 hrs so, but still can't get enough income to support my family.
I went to attend local college open even last month, had a chat with tutors, they told me I've already had some electrical knowledge regarding my HND electrical engineering at my previous college, I was suggested to take level 2 course, before level 3, to gain some practical experience, as part time student, which is going to be one year to finish the course and then go on to level 3.
My question is as a 45 person this year, with HND electrical engineering, if I take on this course as this age , if it is too late to be an electrician? due to no any connection with this sector, really worried about job prospective when I spent my saving on these courses really.
I read some threads, mentioned ECS card( electrical labouror), checked ECS website, its so frustrted really, so many electrican mate jobs out there, asking for your ECS card to apply, but ECS card application website says from 1st October 2017 proof of employment by an Electrical Contractor or other Electrotechnical employer needed for application, really don't know how to get a job and get this ECS card, its dilemma, I can pass the exam easily, but how to provide proof of employment???
Could someone this forum give me some suggestion and guide,please?
Really appreciated.

Electrical Labourer - https://www.ecscard.org.uk/card-types/electrotechnical/labourer-ecs-card

MDJ · Apr 26, 2018

Taylortwocities said:
I was a Telephone apprentice when I left school, so had the practical skills. So the transition to sparking wasn’t too tricky.
Retired last year, but still doing the odd job.

haha, fair play that made me chuckle.

Lewisham · Mar 4, 2023

HandyMann said:
Hi stom
At 51 I’m just starting out too, so I’d say no it’s never too late. I share your frustration re the ECS card thing. I don’t think an employer is likely to hire you (or me) until you prove some competence first so, yes, it is a risk but if you believe in yourself, go for it.

I’ve just completed the 2365 Level 2. I did it as a distance learning course, only attending the training centre for exams and assessments, which was cheaper than the college route. It also meant I could study and practice at my own pace and ultimately finish the course quicker.

With your HND background you will find the exams are a doddle and, if you have any DIY skills the practical side is quite easy to pick up.
My tips are:
Buy the text book for the course.
Check out “GSH Electrical” on YouTube for some really good videos of the practical skills you will need to develop.
I appreciate money is tight but invest in a few of the materials and practice at home. Even build a replica of the boards that you’ll see in the videos if you can afford it.
Once you’ve done that bit actually approach some employers and sell yourself.
You’ll need the level 3 afterwards, followed by a year or two completing an NVQ so it won’t be quick but it’s certainly achievable.
Good luck

Hi Handymann.

I hope you are fine.

How is it going with distance learning?

You mentioned that you did your level 2 via distance learning and attended the centre for exams. I would like to know if you used any training centre which was offered distance learning and they booked exam for you at the centre or you did privately?

I have tried to google for the exam centres in London I could book myself but unsuccessful. It seems I need to register with training centre which I can not afford at the moment. Money is to tight and I would like to do level 2 exam then 3

I would appreciate your insight.