Chemistry graduate looking into retraining as an electrician; how is the industry and is it worth it

[Tcol91]

I'm new here and I apologise in advance if I've posted this in the wrong place. I would just like some advice on the electrician route as I'm meeting conflicting opinions on it from family and friends.

First and foremost, I completed my degree in chemistry in 2014 and have been working various chem jobs since. I don't enjoy it, I'm often bored out of my mind and clock watching. The pay is shocking and jobs are getting fewer and far between.

I've been thinking about becoming a spark for a while now, however my parents are saying they know loads of sparks that are out of work. On the other hand, I know of a few sparks that seem relatively happy and are busy constantly. My point is, is this going to be another job in which I get qualified and then cannot find work in?

I'm looking at a training with a local provider that uses the EAL courses; level 2, 3 + 17th ed and wiring regs. I'd do the course in the evenings and once finished I understand I'd have to find experience in order to build my portfolio.

My question is, I'm having to get a loan to do this course and I don't want to end up spending the money only to be in another industry that's suffering. Is it worth it? Why are there so many bad reviews about becoming a spark?

Thanks to anyone that replied.

 

[Squid]

Have you ever thought about Project Management?

 

[Krystof]

Tell me about Project Management?

 

[Des 56]

What sector would you be intending to operate?
Is it basic Domestic installation,Commercial installation,Industrial or maintenance The term electrician covers a very broad spectrum The qualification requirements and experience varies quite a lot

Maybe a look at the website for the JIB may give you indication of the requirements that employers look for,the criteria to be registered with the Jib
If you can attain a Jib grading it opens up many opportunities

Domestic installation may require you to become self employed to get started,becoming scheme registered soon after you start up, get most of your experience on the job (unfortunately winging it at the expense of your customer)it is not morally right, however,it has been a choice countless would be sparks have taken when the doors remain closed to them as Domestic sparks

For more complex installation or maintenance work there appears to be no short cut and both qualification and experience is required over very long periods

Good luck with your choice of route to getting where you deserve and keep a tight reign on funds to enable you to reach your goal

 

[StephenRowley]

I was until very recently in a similar position, so cant really give andy advice on teh proper route. Looked at spakie work but couldn't really afford it, but got something slightly different route of Substations apprenticeship.

If you can get an apprenticeship remember as a older student it's only your first year that's at a lower rate of pay.

Had friend who put himself doing while working as an evening replen supervisor in a B&Q store.

Try and sell yourself remember yes you'll be more costly to employer but you've got a few years of work experience, you are not a green 16 years old you are used to turning up work on time 5 days a week. Use that to your advantage in selling yourself.

 

[LankyWill]

• I did the youngster route and served my apprenticeship which I completed at the age of 22. I'm now working for an agency/subbing to gain more experience in other industries. Being apprenticeship time served puts you steps above: mates and improvers. Most firms prefer you to have experience in Industrial and Commercail sectors as they are more demanding than domestic. Agency work will help to gain experience whilst still taking home £8ph as a mate.

 

[telectrix]

How long would it take to be qualified to do even the most basic kind of work such that you can begin to gain at least a little money and experience?

3 years if you get practical experience at the same time. IMO. then yous still wet behind your ears.

 

[GlenTavener]

How long would it take to be qualified to do even the most basic kind of work such that you can begin to gain at least a little money and experience?

So many people know the basic physics and the people posting on here are clearly intelligent enough to grasp this. However, the application requires a practical approach to application and actual experience is really the only way.