Becoming an electrician in the military

I'm interested in electrical work and thinking about joining the military. What does it take to become an electrician in the Forces, and what should I do now to prepare while I'm still in high school?

Firstly, it's fantastic that you're considering a career as an electrician in the military. It's a well-respected trade that can set you up with a lot of career opportunities, both during and after your service.

There are a few steps you can take right now, while still in high school, to set yourself up for success. It's beneficial to start by focusing on your academics: math and science are particularly important as they are often heavily involved in trade work. Physics, algebra, and even computer science can provide a great base for understanding electrical systems.

It can also be helpful to look into vocational classes or part-time work that exposes you to the field. This could be an apprenticeship, a part-time job, or classes that give you a basic understanding of electrical systems. Doing so will give you hands-on experience and a taste of what the work involves.

Then, when it comes to joining the military, each branch has its own specific procedures for becoming an electrician. Generally, you would enlist, go through basic training, and then enroll in a technical school or training program through the military where you would learn the specifics of your trade. It’s also worth noting that military electricians receive further specialized training depending on their deployment and role.

So, you’ll need to research the specific requirements for the branch you're interested in. The Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, and Space Force all have roles for electricians, but each branch might have different prerequisites and training processes.

Lastly, keep in mind that most military branches require a high school diploma (or sometimes a GED), as well as a minimum score on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test. The score needed can vary by branch, so that's something else you'll need to look into.

I hope this gives you a good starting point! Best of luck with your journey towards becoming a military electrician.