Are you seeking a career path offering stability, growth, and the chance to make a positive impact? Look no further than the dynamic field of electrical work! In the UK, the demand for skilled electricians is soaring, driven by various factors including technological advancements and infrastructure developments. At Learn Trade Skills, we're passionate about highlighting the diverse array of opportunities awaiting aspiring electricians. Here are ten compelling reasons why choosing an electrician career in the UK could be your most rewarding decision yet:
Sustained Demand: The need for electricians spans across various sectors, from residential to commercial and industrial. With the UK’s ongoing infrastructure projects and construction boom, skilled electricians are in high demand to ensure safe and efficient electrical installations. According to the Office for National Statistics, employment of electricians is projected to grow by 5.5% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations.
Job Security: Electricians enjoy a secure career path with consistent demand for their expertise. As essential contributors to various industries, electricians can expect long-term job stability and opportunities for growth. A survey conducted by the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) found that 90% of electrical contractors reported difficulty finding skilled electricians to hire in the UK.
Competitive Compensation: Electricians command competitive salaries, reflecting the value of their specialised skills and the demand for their services. According to the Office for National Statistics, the median annual salary for electricians in the UK is £33,636, with experienced professionals earning significantly higher wages. Additionally, electricians who specialise in renewable energy installations or smart home technologies may command even higher salaries.
Diverse Career Paths: The electrical trade offers a broad spectrum of career pathways to suit every interest and ambition. Whether you’re drawn to residential installations, commercial projects, or industrial maintenance, there’s a niche within the electrical industry to match your aspirations. According to data from the Joint Industry Board (JIB) for the Electrical Contracting Industry, electricians work in a wide range of settings, including construction sites, factories, and private residences, across the UK.
Hands-On Engagement: Electricians thrive in a hands-on work environment where they can apply their practical skills to solve complex challenges. From wiring installations to system troubleshooting, each task offers an opportunity for personal and professional growth. A survey by the Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA) found that 86% of electricians cited “working with their hands” as one of the most enjoyable aspects of their job.
Continuous Learning: In the ever-evolving field of electrical work, there’s always something new to learn. Electricians have access to ongoing training and development opportunities, ensuring they stay abreast of industry trends and emerging technologies. According to the Learning and Skills Council, 73% of electricians participate in continuing education and training programs to enhance their skills and knowledge in the UK.
Independence and Flexibility: Electricians have the flexibility to choose their work arrangements, whether it’s working independently as contractors or joining established firms. This independence allows electricians to tailor their careers to suit their lifestyle and goals. According to the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), 42% of electricians are self-employed, enjoying the freedom and autonomy that comes with running their own businesses in the UK.
Sense of Achievement: There’s immense satisfaction in knowing that your work as an electrician contributes to the smooth functioning of society. From powering homes to supporting critical infrastructure, electricians play a vital role in keeping communities safe and functional. A survey by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) found that 78% of electricians feel a strong sense of pride in their work and its impact on society.
Opportunities for Advancement: With experience and further training, electricians can advance to supervisory roles, project management positions, or even start their own electrical contracting businesses. The potential for career progression within the electrical trade is vast and rewarding. According to the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), 65% of electricians aspire to move into management or leadership roles within the next five years in the UK.
Contribution to Society: By choosing a career as an electrician, you become an essential contributor to the well-being of society. Your work ensures that homes are powered, businesses operate smoothly, and communities thrive, making a positive impact on society’s overall quality of life. According to the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU), the transition to renewable energy sources supported by skilled electricians is crucial for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change in the UK.
At Learn Trade Skills, we’re dedicated to empowering aspiring electricians with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to excel in this dynamic profession. With our comprehensive training programs and expert guidance, you’ll be well-equipped to embark on a fulfilling career journey in the exciting world of electrical work.
Want to find out more? Fill out the form in the link below to get connected to one of our specialists
Tolga Aramaz is the Director of Learn Trade Skills (LTS), a family-run training centre specialising in electrical installations. With years of experience and a deep understanding of the electrical industry, Tolga is known for their exceptional organisational skills, attention to detail, and commitment to delivering outstanding results. They provide valuable insights and guidance to electricians, contractors, and businesses, ensuring compliance with industry regulations and safety protocols. Through engaging training programmes and consultancy services, Tolga empowers professionals to excel in their roles, fostering long-term relationships built on professionalism and customer satisfaction.
In a landmark deal, National Grid has agreed to sell its Electricity System Operator (ESO) to the UK Government for £630 million. This sale marks a pivotal step in the UK’s transition towards a greener, more sustainable energy future. The ESO, responsible for balancing supply and demand across the national electricity grid, will now be transformed into the National Energy System Operator (NESO), an independent public body tasked with overseeing both the UK’s electricity and gas networks. Expected to finalize by 1st October 2024, this move aims to enhance energy security, drive market development, and support the country’s goal of achieving net zero emissions.
Ørsted, a global leader in renewable energy, has secured significant Contracts for Difference (CfD) in the UK’s latest Allocation Round 6 for its two major offshore wind projects, Hornsea 3 and Hornsea 4. These projects, with a combined capacity of nearly 3,500 MW, represent a major step toward the UK government’s goal of increasing offshore wind capacity to 60 GW by 2030. As the world’s largest offshore wind farm zone, Ørsted’s Hornsea projects will provide clean, affordable energy to millions of UK households and businesses, reinforcing the nation’s energy security while promoting sustainability.
In a monumental step towards its ambitious climate goals, the UK government has successfully secured 131 new renewable energy projects in its latest Contracts for Difference (CfD) auction. This marks the largest number of projects ever approved in a single auction round, reflecting the country’s growing commitment to transitioning to clean energy. With an array of developments spanning offshore wind, onshore wind, solar, and tidal energy, these projects are set to play a pivotal role in the UK’s strategy to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 and deliver 100% clean power by 2030.
