What to Expect as an Electrician Apprentice
When you decide to pursue a career as an electrician, you choose a job with security and projected growth over the next several years. So, how do you get started on the journey? Most people start as an electrician’s apprentice. Apprenticeship allows you to get paid while you learn the skills of the trade. Walker Electric shares how to get started and what you can expect as an electrician apprentice.

What is an Electrician’s Apprentice?
An apprentice is an aspiring electrician who learns the necessary skills under the supervision of an experienced journeyman electrician. As they advance in the trade, apprentices receive more responsibility. Many people prefer apprenticeships over trade schools because apprentices receive a salary as they learn and learn through on-the-job, direct working experience.
Requirements to Begin an Electrician Apprenticeship
There are a few basic requirements to apply for an apprenticeship position:
- You must be 18 years of age or older
- A valid ID or driver’s license
- A high school diploma or equivalent
- Pass an aptitude test
What Are the Duties of an Electrician Apprentice?
Apprenticeships usually take about four years to complete. You learn skills in a classroom and then apply them in the field. While working in the field, a journeyman electrician provides supervision and instructions. As an apprentice, you can expect to be responsible for:
- Preparing and cleaning up work sites
- Learning and adhering to safety codes and building regulations
- Learning the design of various electrical systems
- Assisting with the installation, repair, and troubleshooting of systems
- Learning to read blueprints and wiring diagrams
What Skills Does an Electrician’s Apprentice Need?
- When someone calls with an electrical problem, they often don’t know what is wrong. You must have analytical and critical thinking skills to help troubleshoot electrical system malfunctions.
- An electrician apprentice must be familiar with algebra, geometry, and trigonometry. These forms of mathematics determine angles, distances, and measurements used frequently in electrical work.
- Electrical work involves a lot of physical labor. Apprentices must be able to bend, lift, carry equipment, and stand for extended periods. Some jobs may require climbing ladders or crawling into tight spaces.
- Practical communication skills are another essential skill for apprentices. You must be able to follow directions and relay accurate information while performing jobs.
Electrician’s Apprentice Positions Near Lexington, Kentucky
Are you getting ready to graduate from high school and want to get started on a lucrative career path right away? Walker Electric is always looking for ambitious apprenticeship candidates who are prepared to work hard and learn the trade. We have been a fixture in the community since 1976 and have a reputation for providing exceptional and reliable services, including electrical installations, industrial service work, and electrical design-build.
Call us at (859) 252-2892 with any questions, or fill out an application and bring it to our office at 2308 Frankfort Court in Lexington. You can also apply online. Walker Electric is located in Lexington, Kentucky, and proudly serves Fayette County, Lexington, Frankfort, Richmond, Georgetown, and surrounding counties.