How to Transition from a Different Trade into Electrical Work

If you're currently working in a trade like plumbing, HVAC, construction, or manufacturing and looking for a new career path with strong job security and high earning potential, transitioning into electrical work could be the perfect choice. The demand for skilled electricians is rising across industrial, commercial, and residential sectors, making it an attractive field for trade professionals who already have hands-on experience in technical work.

Whether you’re seeking better job stability, higher wages, or a more specialized skill set, this guide will walk you through how to transition into electrical work successfully.

Why Transition into Electrical Work?

Switching to electrical work offers several advantages compared to other trades:

✔ Job Security: The electrical industry is always in demand, with growth projected to increase over the next decade.
✔ Higher Earning Potential: Electricians earn competitive salaries, with opportunities to specialize in high-paying fields like automation, industrial power, and renewable energy.
✔ Opportunities for Growth: With training and licensing, you can advance from an apprentice to a journeyman, master electrician, or even an electrical contractor.
✔ Diverse Work Environments: Electricians work in construction, industrial facilities, oilfields, commercial buildings, automation systems, and renewable energy projects.

If you have experience in plumbing, HVAC, welding, carpentry, or mechanics, your existing skills—such as troubleshooting, blueprint reading, and using hand tools—can give you a head start in an electrical career.

Step-by-Step Guide to Transitioning into Electrical Work

Step 1: Assess Your Transferable Skills

Many skills from other trades can be applied to electrical work, making the transition smoother. Here are some examples:

• Plumbers & HVAC Technicians – Experience with piping, wiring layouts, and system installations.

• Carpenters & Welders – Strong foundation in construction, blueprint reading, and structural work.

• Mechanics & Machine Operators – Familiarity with electrical motors, circuits, and troubleshooting machinery.

If you’ve worked in a technical trade, you likely already understand safety regulations, blueprint interpretation, and troubleshooting systems, which are essential in electrical work.

Step 2: Research Electrical Career Paths

There are different types of electrician jobs, depending on what interests you:

✔ Residential Electrician – Works on home wiring, outlets, and lighting installations.
✔ Commercial Electrician – Installs and maintains electrical systems in businesses and offices.
✔ Industrial Electrician – Works with high-voltage power systems in factories, oilfields, and manufacturing plants.
✔ Automation & Controls Electrician – Specializes in PLC programming, SCADA systems, and industrial automation.
✔ Oilfield Electrician – Maintains drilling rig electrical systems, power distribution, and safety controls.

If you’re coming from an industrial or mechanical trade, industrial and oilfield electrical work might be the best fit.

Step 3: Enroll in an Electrical Apprenticeship or Training Program

To become a licensed electrician, you must complete an apprenticeship program or attend a technical school.

✔ Apprenticeship Route:

• Typically 4-5 years long, combining classroom instruction and on-the-job training.

• You will work under a licensed journeyman or master electrician.

• You'll learn wiring, circuits, electrical safety, and troubleshooting.

✔ Trade School or Community College Route:

• If you want a faster start, enrolling in a technical school or electrical program can teach you fundamentals and reduce apprenticeship time.

Where to Find Training in Oklahoma:

• Oklahoma Electrical Apprenticeship Programs

• Trade Schools & Community Colleges (like Autry Technology Center, Tulsa Tech, or Francis Tuttle Technology Center)

• On-the-Job Training with Companies Like Houston Electric

Step 4: Get Licensed and Certified

To work as an electrician in Oklahoma, you need to obtain the necessary licenses and certifications:

✔ Journeyman Electrician License – After completing 8,000 hours of training, you can take the state exam.
✔ Master Electrician License – Requires additional experience and allows you to run your own electrical contracting business.
✔ OSHA Safety Training – Helps you work safely on job sites.
✔ PLC and SCADA Certifications – Beneficial if transitioning into automation and industrial controls.

Some companies offer training and certification reimbursement, making it easier to obtain the required credentials.

Step 5: Apply for an Electrical Job

Once you complete your training or apprenticeship, you can start working as a licensed electrician. Companies like Houston Electric are always looking for apprentices, journeyman electricians, PLC programmers, and automation technicians.

Houston Electric is hiring!
📍 Location: Garber, OK
📞 Phone: (580) 863-2863
📧 Email: contact@houstonelectricinc.net

Final Thoughts: Start Your Electrical Career Today

Transitioning into electrical work is a smart career move for those in other skilled trades. With strong demand, excellent pay, and room for career advancement, becoming an electrician is a great long-term investment in your future.

If you're ready to make the switch, start by researching apprenticeship programs, enrolling in training, and gaining hands-on experience. Companies like Houston Electric are here to help you get started.

Are you ready for a high-paying, stable, and rewarding career in electrical work? Contact Houston Electric today to explore your opportunities!