It's my senior year in high school, and its time to choose a college. I know that they're two different careers, but was looking for some advice. I have grades in the 90's, and like to think of as being pretty smart. I really don't care for sitting behind an office all day, and like to move around and work on things. Thats why I was moving towards being an electrician. I'd like to make a decent living, but money's not really to big of a decider. Can anyone in both fields tell me what they do day to day, and any advice on choosing? It's appreciated.
2007-11-26 09:56:17 · 5 answers · asked by Anonymous in Business & Finance ➔ Careers & Employment ➔ Technology
I am neither an electrical engineer or an electrician, but i can guaranty you that you will more than likely have a desk job as an engineer than as an electrician.
An electrician does not necessarily have to attend college, which can be both good and bad. If you end up making a career out of being an electrician, than you will not miss the college. If, however, you decide midstream that working in the "field" is not all it's cracked up to be, then going back to college may be a issue.
I know it's very geographically dependent, but electricians make very good wages and more than college grads in alot of cases, especially if you end up hanging your own shingle.
At 18 it's a tough decision, and I would personally lean towards going to college, because it's always tough to start later, and nothing is stopping you from changing your mind later on. If you can afford it, go that route, gain a little more life experience and make the decision later on.
One other thing to consider is that in a lot of cases, you'll have to serve years as an apprentice to become an apprentice, so it's crappy work and taking alot of orders...but again, well worth the time and effort if you are smart and good at it.
Personally, I started out as a carpenter at 16, skipped college and am now in the energy business (behind a desk, I might add). But one of my regrets was always not getting a degree straight away.
Hope this helps and good luck.
2007-11-26 10:24:10 · answer #1 · answered by Javaman 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
First, getting a BS in Electrical Engineering won't prevent you from being an Electrician (instead of just going to a vocational school for electricians). The same can't be said about vocational school.
Second, engineers don't just sit at a desk.
Before you make a decision, I think you should strongly consider talking to practicing professionals in both fields and trying to tour a working facility.
2007-11-26 18:13:18 · answer #2 · answered by Reformed Nice Guy 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Do both. The knowledge you gain from engineering math and physics along with the practical experience from being an electrician ought to get you into some high tech application activities. The math and science are invaluable whatever you do. You might also look into an FCC license; it is also a door opener and looks good on a resume. Good lock.
2007-11-26 18:16:21 · answer #3 · answered by clintb32 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I'd recommend being a Test Engineer for a power utility. Those guys are always in the field doing stuff. I'm a new Protection Engineer, and setting up the protection is interesting but I rarely go into the field.
2007-11-29 08:22:27 · answer #4 · answered by Dude 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Go for electrical engineering and then seek hands on jobs.
2007-11-26 17:59:37 · answer #5 · answered by WhydoIdothis 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋