Are you considering a new career this year? Do you want better pay? Do you want a career that offers better flexibility? These are just a few reasons to consider making 2024 the year you become an electrical contractor. This guide discusses a few top reasons for becoming an electrical contractor in Tennessee today.
Increasing Demand
Due to the increasing demand, Tennessee is continually ranked as one of the best states for construction workers. More people are moving into the state each year than those moving out, meaning construction laborers of all types are needed to accommodate the increasing population. Construction and electrical contractors are required to complete residential and commercial projects in Tennessee.
Additionally, electrical contractors have unique skills that are highly in demand in the state. If you know your craft well and have the necessary training and certifications, you can expect ample work in Tennessee. Increasing demand also means better job security. Whether you work for a contracting company or start your own business, you should have plenty of earning opportunities as an electrical contractor.
Flexible Schedule
Many contractors enjoy the flexibility of the position. Hands-on work with varying work schedules can make your workday fly by. No two jobs are the same, which can make working as an electrical contractor exciting. You also get the sense of pride that comes with completing projects with your own two hands.
Even better, if you don’t enjoy the idea of sitting in an office all day, you’ll love the work environment of an electrical contractor. Your job will consist of traveling to and from multiple job sites throughout the workday. Many electrical contractors also participate in other job duties, like sales, project management, or project planning. Depending on where you work, you may have control over the work tasks you complete each day.
Transferable Skills
There is always room for advancement when working as an electrical contractor. Construction and building companies are always seeking highly qualified electricians. Many are also hiring for project management or leadership positions. Contractors with electrical skills may find success in positions like site superintendent or foreman.
The skills learned as an electrical contractor can also transfer to other contractor positions, helping you fill your work schedule while you’re just starting out. Your license educates you on most electrical work types, including residential, commercial, and industrial. You could also branch out to other electric specializations, including electrical assembler, solar panel electrician, or industrial electrician. Some electrical contractors may even use their skills to start a franchise electrical business. Franchise ownership allows you to enjoy the benefits of owning your own business while providing you with a business plan that has proven to work.
Additionally, Tennessee has reciprocity agreements with other states. Once you’re a licensed electrical contractor, you can also work in Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Ohio, and West Virginia. While you will still need a state-specific license to complete electrical contracting duties, the reciprocity agreement allows you to waive testing.
No College Degree Required
One of the biggest benefits of becoming an electrical contractor is that while it’s a skilled career, it doesn’t require a college education. No college degree requirement means no student loan debt. Instead, you can obtain your Tennessee electrical contractor license by successfully completing two exams with at least a 73% score. You’ll also need to show proof of sufficient insurance coverage and include a few documents with your application, but this is an easy process that can be done in just a few months.
Taking a pre-licensing class is the best way to ensure you achieve the required score for your Tennessee electrical contractor license. Licensing and exam prep classes provide you with study guides, practice tests, expert instructors, and ongoing assistance to ensure you know the material you need to get your license.
Competitive Pay
The average salary for an electrical contractor in Tennessee is $25.34 per hour. Electrical contractors also tend to enjoy good benefits, including paid time off, vacation days, retirement contributions, and health insurance. Additionally, many electrical contractors are subject to overtime, with an average of $9,438 per year in additional income.
The more certifications you acquire as an electrician, too, the more you can earn. Some careers as electrical contractors also come with union representation in Tennessee. Union benefits can provide you with even more job security when working as an electrical contractor.
Opportunity To Go Into Business for Yourself
Some electrical contractors may eventually decide to go into business for themselves. Self-employment as an electrical contractor offers many benefits, including an even more flexible work schedule and unlimited earning potential. As a business owner, you also get control over which projects you accept.
Electrical contractors enjoy many benefits, including a flexible work schedule and good job security. While you do need to take a pre-licensing class and complete an exam to become an electrical contractor in Tennessee, you don’t need a college degree. This means you can complete the requirements in a shorter period, making this the year you pursue a new career.
