Newbie needing advise

Lucas J · Oct 27, 2017

After years of not being able to land myself an apprenticeship and being stuck in a job I don't want to do I'm becoming more and more frustrated.

I've tried to get work as an Electricians mate but all have asked for 2+ years experience, so I feel as if I'm at a dead end right now.

Is there any other way to becoming fully qualified and getting into the Industry without completing an Apprenticeship?

Qualification's I currently have;

Level 2 Diploma in Electrical Installations (Buildings and Structures)

Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Performing Engineering Operations (Engineering Practices)

Level 3 BTEC National Diploma in Electrical/Electronic Engineering

Any advice on any routes I could take will be greatly appreciated.

Gavin John Hyde · Oct 27, 2017

I assume you have the Level 2 2365 C&G?
In an ideal world you need experience and people are asking for 2+ years but it might be down to your age, as if they take an apprentice on who is doing the L3 2365 then they can pay peanuts.
If you are not an apprentice then you cost them more and it comes down to what they can get out of you work wise...
i would at very least sign up for the 2365 L3 and maybe apply for apprenticeships or work. if you are doing the L3 one day a week or in evenings. then you could always work in something else. but the L2 and 3 2365 are your standard routes into the trade.
failing that the forces are in need of quite a few electricians so maybe look at the TA reserves! they give you all the training you could ever wish for be it electrical or engineering... and it will open many a door for you with being in HM forces on your cv...

rolyberkin · Oct 27, 2017

Silly question but what are you looking for an apprenticeship in and if you wanted to be an electrician what made you switch to the BTec as opposed to the 2365 L3? The qualifications you have are a bit of a mixed bag and I agree as per the advice above that you may need to consider a 2365 (L3) if you are looking to be an electrician.

Lip.82 · Oct 27, 2017

Hi
I put myself through college on a evening course and have just completed my 2365 L3. I got in touch with as many electrical firms as I could find and eventually one firm got in touch and offered me two weeks work to cover someone who was off ill. I took a hit in wages and worked my --- off and that two weeks turned into 2 years after which I left to go to another firm on my own terms. My point being is that if you want it that bad you have to put yourself out there and be prepared to start at the bottom and work your way up and impress. I'm waiting to do the regs then going on to do inspection and testing and NVQ L3.
Hope that helps and good luck