How to Prepare For a Career in Commercial Electrical Maintenance

Choosing Commercial Electrical Maintenance as a Career Path

I chose to pursue a career in commercial electrical maintenance because I enjoy working with my hands, solving complex problems, and keeping buildings running smoothly. As a commercial electrician, I get to work on a wide variety of electrical systems and equipment in settings like office buildings, hospitals, schools, and factories. It's a career path that offers job stability, competitive wages, opportunities for advancement, and the satisfaction of providing an essential service.

Some key reasons why commercial electrical maintenance appeals to me:

I like troubleshooting electrical issues and coming up with solutions. It's very rewarding to diagnose problems and get systems back up and running.
I enjoy the hands-on nature of the work. It's active and allows me to use specialized tools and test equipment.
Commercial sites have complex electrical systems like lighting, climate control, security, backup power, etc. I appreciate the variety and challenge this brings.
Electrical maintenance techs are in steady demand. As long as buildings need electricity, there will be job opportunities.
The work provides a great sense of accomplishment. Keeping the lights on and equipment operating is essential for businesses.

Overall, a career in commercial electrical maintenance aligns very well with my interests, skills, and professional goals. The work is engaging and meaningful, and provides stability and growth potential.

Getting the Necessary Training and Education

To become a commercial electrical maintenance technician, proper training and education are essential. Here are the main steps I took in preparing for this career:

I earned a high school diploma or equivalent GED credential. A basic high school education establishes foundational skills in math, science, communications, etc.
I completed a formal apprenticeship program or earned an associate degree from a technical/vocational school. These programs cover topics like electrical theory, wiring, troubleshooting, safety protocols, tools, building codes, and more. Hands-on training is a big component.
I acquired my journeyman electrician license after finishing my apprenticeship training hours. The license certifies my skills and allows me to work independently.
I focused my training specifically on commercial electrical work rather than residential. This involved learning about HVAC systems, large appliances, three-phase power, backup generators, etc.
I will continue taking courses and training to stay current on the National Electrical Code and new technologies like smart lighting controls, solar panels, EV chargers, etc. Ongoing learning is vital in this field.

Proper licensing, hands-on training, and specialized knowledge in commercial systems were the keys to launching my career as an electrical maintenance technician. It provides me with credentials that are in high demand.

Developing Additional Skills and Qualities

Beyond technical training, there are several additional skills and qualities that contribute to success in commercial electrical maintenance:

Troubleshooting expertise - I practiced diagnosing electrical problems and thinking logically through solutions. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are very important.
Physical fitness - I improved my fitness since this job involves a lot of lifting, climbing, crouching, etc. Good health and stamina allow me to perform at my best.
Mechanical aptitude - I worked on building mechanical competence in areas like installing wiring, operating tools, repairing equipment, etc. This job relies heavily on mechanical skills.
Communication abilities - I practiced communicating clearly with colleagues, clients, and vendors. Electrical maintenance requires collaboration and explaining technical matters understandably.
Computer/tech literacy - I learned new software, equipment, and systems quickly. Electrical technology is rapidly evolving, and mechanics need to adapt.
Time management - I honed skills in managing multiple tasks efficiently. Electrical issues require swift response, often while juggling other duties.
Commercial systems knowledge - I studied building systems like HVAC, generators, distribution panels, lighting controls etc. The more exposure the better.

Cultivating these additional skills and qualities helps maximize my performance and opportunities as a commercial electrical maintenance technician. Technical expertise opens the door, but these other abilities really allow long-term success.

Gaining Hands-On Experience

While education and training were crucial foundations, I further prepared for this career by gaining as much hands-on experience as possible:

I completed multiple co-op terms and internships with commercial electrical contractors during school. This allowed me to apply classroom theories in the real world.
I volunteered to help electricians that I knew with basic tasks like hauling materials and tools. This built familiarity with the work environment.
I took part-time jobs in related fields like construction and facilities maintenance. The experience helped me develop my skills.
I asked seasoned commercial electricians if I could shadow them or informally assist on jobs prior to licensing. This exposure was invaluable.
I practiced key hands-on skills like conduit bending, wiring, motor controls, troubleshooting circuits, etc. whenever possible. Repetition builds competence.
I studied electrical drawings and diagrams to grow familiar with the symbology and layout. Understanding technical documents is critical.
I toured the electrical spaces of various commercial buildings to see systems firsthand. Direct observation cemented the learning.

By actively seeking out hands-on training opportunities, I gained vital experience that smoothed my transition into a full-time commercial electrical maintenance role. Nothing builds job readiness like real-world application.

Landing My First Job

When I felt fully prepared through education, skills development, and experience, I began applying for commercial electrical maintenance jobs. Some key steps in launching my career included:

I updated my resume to emphasize my specialized training, hands-on experience, and commercial knowledge. Quantifying achievements helps.
I reached out to my instructors, former supervisors, co-workers, and professional contacts asking if they knew of any current job openings. Networking was hugely beneficial.
I joined relevant professional associations which offer job boards and networking events. This expanded my connections substantially.
I practiced interviewing and prepared stories that highlight successes applicable to the role. Interview skills make a big impression.
I got my foot in the door by applying broadly, including for apprentice/helper jobs at electrical shops. Starting somewhere small can lead to bigger roles.
I made sure to exhibit professionalism, positive attitude, technical enthusiasm, and communication skills throughout the hiring process. Intangibles matter.

With persistence and preparation, I was able to land a commercial electrical maintenance job aligned with my long-term career goals. Staying focused while building knowledge, abilities, and contacts paid off tremendously.

Conclusion

A career in commercial electrical maintenance has been very rewarding for me thus far. The days are challenging but extremely fulfilling. I enjoy knowing my specialized skills help maintain safe, comfortable, and operational facilities. The keys for me were choosing commercial electrical specifically based on my interests, completing formal technical training, developing critical hands-on abilities, and supplementing education with as much real-world experience as possible. With diligent preparation, others can follow a similar path into this stable and engaging career field. The demand for skilled commercial electrical maintenance techs will continue to grow, so it's an excellent time to get started down this career path.