What's the difference between an electrical engineer and an electrician? Which way to go?

Summary

The video discusses the pros and cons of becoming an electrical engineer versus an electrician. It highlights the hands-on nature and quicker entry into the workforce for electricians, with lower upfront costs. In contrast, electrical engineers face a more significant time and financial investment but enjoy higher earning potential and career progression. The video also touches on the versatility of an engineering degree and the ability to work in various industries and roles.

Takeaways

• 🛠️ Being an electrician offers more hands-on work opportunities.
• 🏫 Electrician training programs can be completed more quickly and cost less than engineering degrees.
• 🏢 Some construction companies pay for electrician certification if you work as an electrical helper.
• 💼 Electrical engineers have a higher earning potential compared to electricians.
• 🏗️ Electricians may work long hours and in challenging locations, which can lead to higher pay.
• 🏡 Electrical engineers often have more stable work environments and opportunities to work from home.
• 👨‍💻 Electrical engineers can work longer as their job is less physically demanding compared to electricians.
• 🔩 Electrical engineers have the ability to design electrical systems, not just install them.
• 🌐 An engineering degree provides flexibility to work in various fields beyond electrical systems.
• 🎓 The choice between being an electrician or an electrical engineer should consider academic inclination and career goals.

Q & A

What are the advantages of becoming an electrician?

Becoming an electrician offers hands-on work, quicker entry into the workforce, lower upfront costs, and potential for companies to pay for your trade school certification.

How does the time investment differ between becoming an electrician and an electrical engineer?

The time investment to become an electrician is less compared to completing an engineering degree.

Can high school students get a head start in becoming an electrician?

Yes, some high schools offer trade school programs where students can begin their journey towards becoming an electrician for free.

What are the potential financial benefits of being sponsored by a construction company to become an electrician?

Construction companies may pay for your trade school education to obtain an electrician certification, reducing your financial burden.

What are the pros of becoming an electrical engineer despite the higher initial investment?

An electrical engineering degree can lead to higher earning potential, more career progression opportunities, and the ability to work in various industries.

Is the electrical engineering program more academically challenging than becoming an electrician?

Yes, the electrical engineering program is significantly more rigorous and academically challenging than the training to become an electrician.

What are the potential work-life balance implications for an electrical engineer versus an electrician?

An electrical engineer may have more opportunities for a stable work-life balance, including the possibility of working from home, compared to an electrician who might work long hours in various locations.

How does the earning potential of an electrician compare to that of an electrical engineer?

While electricians can earn well, especially in remote areas or on construction projects, the earning potential of an electrical engineer is generally higher.

What are the career longevity prospects for electrical engineers compared to electricians?

Electrical engineers may have the opportunity to work longer as their work is less physically demanding compared to electricians who rely on physical labor.

What additional career paths can an electrical engineer pursue that an electrician might not?

Electrical engineers can design electrical systems and have the flexibility to work in various engineering fields, unlike electricians who are more specialized in installation and maintenance.

What advice does the speaker give to someone who is academically inclined but unsure about pursuing a college degree?

The speaker recommends considering the electrical engineering route for those who are academically inclined.

What is the final thought the speaker shares regarding choosing between an electrician and an electrical engineer?

The speaker suggests that if someone is not interested in a college degree, it makes the choice to become an electrician easier.