The world relies on electricity to keep running. From residential to commercial spaces, electronics and electrical systems have to be installed, serviced and repaired by professionals.
Those interested in electrical careers can get ready to answer the call by receiving training on fundamentals, electronic systems, and industrial and manufacturing equipment.
Keep reading to learn more about the industry and different career paths you can take.
Train for an Electrical, Industrial Technology or Electronics Career
In the Electrical, Electronics, & Industrial Technology (EEIT) program offered at Universal Technical Institute (UTI), you'll train hands-on and receive the education you need to pursue entry-level electrical technician jobs after graduation.131
Our EEIT program can be completed in just a year. From labs with the same tools and tech used by professionals in the field to supportive instructors with industry experience, UTI can be a great place to get trained.
Our Career Services team is also here to help you, whether you're searching for part-time employment during school or career opportunities post-graduation.1
Types of Careers in the Electrical Field
With electrical training, there are various electrical technician-related careers a graduate could pursue.
Grads from our Electrical, Electronics, & Industrial Technology program are prepared to pursue entry-level roles. As with any industry, over time, they may be able to advance in their careers with experience and hard work.77 UTI’s electrical programs do not prepare graduates for employment as electricians, and graduates will not be eligible for certification as an electrician without additional training and meeting state licensing requirements.
However, graduates can pursue roles such as:131
Electrician's assistant
An electrician's assistant supports licensed electricians in installing, maintaining and repairing electrical systems in residential, commercial and industrial settings. They are responsible for tasks like organizing tools, preparing materials, running cables and ensuring job sites are safe and clean.
Fire alarm technician
Fire alarm technicians specialize in the installation, maintenance and repair of fire alarm systems to ensure compliance with safety codes and standards. Their role includes wiring systems, testing alarms, troubleshooting malfunctions and performing routine inspections.
Security systems technician
Security systems technicians take care of electronic security systems, including alarms, access control systems and surveillance cameras. They configure and program security equipment, integrate systems with networks and troubleshoot technical issues.
Mechatronics technician
Mechatronics technicians combine skills in mechanics, electronics and computer systems to design, install, and maintain automated and electromechanical equipment. They work on systems like conveyor belts, robotic arms and production lines, troubleshooting issues and upgrading components to improve performance.
Cable technician
A cable technician has the job of installing, maintaining and repairing cable and internet systems for residential and commercial customers. Their tasks include running cables, configuring modems and routers, and diagnosing connectivity issues.
EEIT Courses To Help You Prepare for an Electrical Career
Students gain a foundation of knowledge that covers electrical fundamentals, electronic systems knowledge, and industrial manufacturing equipment and technology.
In the Electrical, Electronics, and Industrial Technology program, courses include:
- Introduction to Technical Trades
- Electrical Wiring
- DC Electrical Theory
- AC Electrical Theory
- Electrical and Electronics Troubleshooting
- Computers and Networking
- Security Systems, Access Control and CCTV Systems
- Fire Alarm Systems
- Satellite/Cable Wireless Technology
- Industrial Robotics
- Mechanical Systems and Maintenance
Graduates are prepared to apply for entry-level electrical technician jobs like those listed above.
Is a Career in EEIT the Right Fit for You?
If you can see yourself in a role that keeps you active, engaged and always learning, the EEIT program might be a good match for you. Here are a few signs you’re built for it:
You enjoy working with your hands
An electrical technician isn’t a desk job. It’s a career where you’ll be maintaining, repairing, installing and making things work every day. If you like physically engaging tasks and the satisfaction of seeing your work in action, you’ll feel right at home.
You’re curious about how things work
Do you catch yourself taking apart gadgets just to see what’s inside? That natural curiosity is a big advantage in the electrical field, where understanding the “why” behind a system is as important as knowing how to fix it.
You’re comfortable with tools and technology
From multimeters to programmable logic controllers, you’ll use a mix of traditional tools and modern tech in electrical careers. If you like working with your hands while also learning new devices and systems, you’ll likely find the work exciting.
You like solving problems
Every project comes with challenges. Troubleshooting and creative thinking are part of the daily routine as an electrical technician. If you enjoy finding solutions and fixing things under pressure, it may be a good match.
You’re looking for a stable, skilled trade
Electrical and electronic systems power nearly every industry, from manufacturing to renewable energy. That means that employers are looking for workers with the right skills.
Common FAQs About Electrical Careers
In electrical technician-related careers, being detail-oriented and technically curious can be beneficial. It also helps to have a desire to solve problems and troubleshoot.
The salary of a tech in an electrical role can vary on a range of factors, including the industry they end up working in and the specific role they choose. Of course, experience and time in the field can also impact salary, along with location, demand, employer and certifications. Electrician technician job growth can vary depending on the path taken.
The daily tasks of someone in an EEIT-related role can vary depending on their specific job title and field. However, it's common for them to install, maintain and repair various low-voltage electrical and electronic systems. They may also do some programming and data analysis.
The time it takes to graduate from an Electrical, Electronics, and Industrial Technology program may vary depending on the path you take. UTI's EEIT program can be completed in just a year.
Yes, graduates of the EEIT program have access to our Career Services team, who are happy to help them find employment opportunities and begin electrical careers in the industry.1 They’re available to help with resume building and interview prep as well!