What an Electrical Technician Does
What type of work does an Electrical Technician do?
Electrical Technicians perform a variety of duties including (but not limited to) installing, troubleshooting, repairing, replacing, and maintaining a variety of electrical wiring, fixtures, and system equipment. Positions in this field may be found with independent electrical contractors, engineering firms, home builders, physical plant maintenance crews, and other organizations with independently maintained electrical systems.
Where do Electrical Technicians work?
Electrical Technicians are traditionally employed in the industrial, residential, construction, commercial, municipal, or utilities industries.
Will I be able to find a job?
It’s important to note that no school can guarantee employment. Here at Dorsey College, we offer career services assistance to all program completers of the Electrical Technician program. You can learn more about the assistance our Career Services team offers by visiting our Career Services for Students and Graduates page
Becoming an Electrical Technician
How might I determine if this is a good career choice for me?
In choosing any career, it’s important that someone look at a variety of factors, some of which include:
- Can I see myself doing the work that this position/occupation performs and am I going to be happy performing those tasks in that type of work setting?
- Do I have the skills/traits/characteristics that one may need to be successful in a position like this?
- How is the employment outlook/trends for this position?
Can I really do this?
You can! Many Electrical Technicians have little to no formal Skilled Trades experience prior to beginning their training. That’s why it’s very important for someone interested in becoming an Electrical Technician to evaluate their school and training options closely.
What type of training is needed?
Electrical Technicians typically attend a post-secondary school or institution to obtain training. Many of these programs lead to a certificate or a diploma and typically take one year to complete. It’s also important to note that since Electrical Technicians work very closely with this equipment in the actual occupational setting, it can be advantageous to a student to choose a program that has a strong hands-on component so they can “learn by doing.” Some Electrical Technicians may also learn on the job by way of an apprenticeship.
How long do I have to go to school?
Many Electrical Technician programs can be completed in a year. In choosing a program, it’s important for someone to evaluate the training that is included so they can ensure they are receiving the training they need (and want) prior to entering the Skilled Trades field as an Electrical Technician.
What are important characteristics for Electrical Technicians to have?
While this isn’t a full list of important characteristics, Electrical Technicians should have good communication skills, technical skills, troubleshooting skills, and have color vision. If you’re lacking in one or more of these areas, it doesn’t necessarily mean you wouldn’t be a good Electrical Technician, and it may be an area you wish to focus on as part of your training.
Is Certification/Licensure required to obtain employment as an Electrical Technician?
It’s always important to check if the state and/or locality in which you want to work has specific requirements for Electrical Technicians to obtain employment.
How much can I expect to make as an Electrical Technician?
Here are some helpful websites that will allow you to view information on Wages & Employment trends:
- Michigan Occupational Wage Information (The SOC for Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers, Transportation Equipment (positions that can be filled by Electrical Technicians) is 49-2093)
- O*NET Online (Scroll down to Wages & Employment Trends to view helpful info on National/State trends)
Are there other career opportunities for Electrical Technicians?
Some may choose to use a career as an Electrical Technician as an entryway into the Skilled Trades field. It would not be uncommon for an Electrical Technician to work in the field to gain experience and/or later go back to school to further their education and/or strengthen their credentials.
The Dorsey College Electrical Technician program
What will be covered in the program?
The Dorsey College Electrical Technician program offers instruction in both a classroom setting as well as a hands-on environment by way of the labs at Dorsey College. Students enrolled in the Electrical Technician program will be exposed to a variety of topics including (but not limited to):
- Electrical Fundamentals and Safety
- Electrical Theory
- Introduction to Construction Drawings and Blueprinting
- National Electrical Code
- Applications of Raceways
- Electrical Test Equipment
- Wiring Methods
- Lighting and Grounding Circuits
- Basic and Advanced Control Systems
- Distribution Systems
- Motor Circuit Applications
- Programmable Logic Controllers
- And more…!
Is your program hands-on?
Yes! Students will have opportunities to practice the skills they are learning in the labs on campus at Dorsey College.
How long is the program?
The Dorsey College Electrical Technician program is designed to be completed in one year.
Who are the instructors?
Our instructors are caring individuals that possess experience and expertise in their respective field. Our instructors meet or exceed State of Michigan and accreditation criteria, guidelines, and qualifications. It’s not uncommon for students of Dorsey College to see their instructors as their coach and mentor throughout their studies.
Why should I choose Dorsey over another school?
Students choose Dorsey College over other Career Training Schools for a variety of reasons. You can learn more by visiting The Dorsey Difference page.
Which Dorsey campuses offer the Electrical Technician program?
The Electrical Technician program is offered at the following Dorsey College campus locations: Dearborn, MI (a branch campus of Madison Heights) and Madison Heights, MI (Main Campus).
How do I enroll?
If you’re interested in enrolling in the Electrical Technician program at Dorsey College, the first step you should take is meeting with one of our Admissions Representatives. You can read more about our Admissions process on our Admissions information page.
Does your program include certification?
Certification is not included in the Dorsey College Electrical Technician program, however, graduates will be issued a diploma upon graduation from the program.
Is your school accredited?
Yes! You can read more by visiting our Accreditation page.
What is the tuition for the program?
The current tuition for the Dorsey College Electrical Technician program can be accessed by clicking here.
What is included in my tuition?
In addition to the program instruction, tuition includes books, an electronic device, and a basic toolkit.
Is Financial Aid available?
Financial Aid is available to those who qualify. For additional information on Financial Aid and Tuition Assistance, we would encourage you to visit our Financial Aid Information page.
Can you help me find a job after graduation?
Dorsey College offers employment assistance to all program completers, however, job placement is not guaranteed. You can learn more about the assistance our Career Services team offers by visiting our Career Services for Students and Graduates page.
