1)    Do you think it would be a better time to learn some new skills or a new trade now, or wait (maybe doing nothing) until the economy turns and companies are ready to hire? If you wait until they are ready to hire you may end up hurting yourself because then you may need to wait until you complete your education or training program before you can get hired. If you get your education now by attending a trade school or college, in say 18 months or maybe two years or longer you will be ready when the economy does pick up.
2)    If you do not have a job, maybe you think you can not afford to get an education, right? That may not be true because if you do not have the resources to pay for an education there are many different alternative ways to help you fund your education. What you should do is contact all the schools of interest and talk to some counselors. At this point do not worry about the financing part of your education. Spend time figuring out what career you would like and one that will pay the bills to support you and your family. Then once you have found the schools with programs of interest seek out all financial assistant options available. Talk to the school to find out how they can help. Research online. You may be surprised by what you find.

Remember where there is a will there is a way. Never give up on your dream of bettering yourself. Now is a great time to learn new skills and trades. It is a great time to get your education, then when the economy turns you should be ready or more ready then you are now to land a new job and career.

So if you are asking yourself how do i decide what career is for me first take note of all your interests. Then you may want to sit down with a college counselor to get some ideas. Plus most counselors will help deciding on career choice however they may try to steer you toward their particular college or school. Therefore an independent counselor may be a better option to ask them can you help decide the perfect career for me and they may be able to guide you some. They should not make the decision for you so do not let them get pushy.

However, even if you do not plan on attending a regular or more traditional college you should still not rule out getting some career training or going to a trade school. If you plan on only getting a high school diploma chances are pretty good you will not make a decent living unless you find a job where you can learn some skills and the employer will teach you.

If you think career training or attending a trade school might be just what you need, guess what? It is not too late to apply! Unlike many traditional colleges that you have to apply for way in advance, you may be able to sign up for a career school or a college that offers some form of a career training program and get started relatively quickly.

Of course if you did just graduate high school or will be you may want to take off some well deserved time and spend the summer with your friends, which is very understandable. But don’t let months turn into years and years turn into decades without a plan to find a decent paying career. In only a little bit of time you can contact several schools with career training options right now and get some ideas of what types of opportunities are available.

There are so many jobs available now that do not require a four year degree, but that do require some form of education and which pay a decent wage. Some examples of jobs in demand that you can get training for in less then four years, maybe even less then two year, are in the medical fields. Think of all the assistants and techs who work in hospitals and doctors and dentists offices. Or if the medical field is not your cup of tea what about computer or office related careers. Many of those type training programs can be completed in just months!

So enjoy your summer, but don’t put off contacting some career schools to find out what they have to offer.

Electricians are usually trained to install, connect, test, and maintain electrical systems for equipment such as climate control, security and communication systems. They learn to work with blueprints that demonstrate the location of circuits, outlets, panel boards, and other equipment. An electrician learns to use testing equipment such as ohmmeters, voltmeters, and oscilloscopes to ensure a proper connection or electrical compatibility between components. Training covers the use of low and high voltage equipment and the installation procedures required of various cable systems, including coaxial and fiber optic cable for computer or telecommunication equipment. Electricians get hands on experience using the tools of the trade, including screwdrivers, pliers, knives, hacksaws, and wire strippers, and power tools including ammeters and test lamps. Finally, special training in welding, communications, cranes and elevators is often included in the process.

In the construction industry, an electrician’s job can be very challenging. They are required to follow the National Electrical Code and remain in compliance with State and local building codes while installing electrical systems. Periodically they are asked to take courses for their employer or union in order to keep up-to-date with changes in the National electrical Code, materials, or new installation procedures. In addition to the training and retraining expected, the work is sometimes physically demanding. Color vision is required in order to follow blueprints and identify electrical wires by color.
To become an electrician, first it’s required to complete an apprenticeship. To find a sponsor, an apprentice must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent, and be able to pass a skills test. A background in electronics is important. In most states, electricians require a license, and it’s obligatory to pass an examination testing electrical theory, the National Electrical Code, and local electric and building codes. It’s probably a good idea to attend a trade school first, but it depends an applicant’s background. Some receive specialized training in the military. Most electricians acquire their skills by completing a three to five year apprenticeship program. The requirements of an apprentice will likely include pulling insulated wires and cables through conduit. Upon completion of the program, an apprentice becomes a journeyman.

There is mobility in the field. Electricians can become supervisors and superintendents. Some start their own contracting business, which also may require an electrical contractor’s license. Many electricians become electrical inspectors. Employment for construction electricians depends on the economy. Maintenance electricians have steadier employment than construction electricians.

Contact an electrician trade school or have them contact you to learn more. For other related careers of interest contact electronics and electrical trade schools and other colleges to find out about their career training programs which they offer.