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Those who are unfamiliar with the role of an electrician might think that they all simply fall under one category. But this industry is incredibly diverse as there are many different types of electricians. Some are based on certification level, such as apprentice, journeyman, and master electrician. Others are based on specialization, including commercial, industrial, residential, installation, maintenance, construction, automotive, marine electricians, and more. Although they all possess similar electrical knowledge and skill sets, their wiring work, equipment used, work environment, and responsibilities differ. They also follow different procedures. While commercial electricians work in residences, commercial buildings, or outside, industrial electricians work in industrial facilities like power plants, warehouses, and mines. The type of control systems and equipment they maintain often means they have more specialized expertise. This post is your ultimate “industrial vs. commercial electrician” guide that will help you discover what their key differences are.
What Is an Industrial Electrician?
Industrial electricians work in high-risk environments such as chemical plants, construction sites, warehouses, and large manufacturing and production facilities. They are trained to install, repair, and maintain large and complex electrical machinery, and data and communication systems (much like commercial electricians) at industrial facilities of all sizes. However, their work is more extensive, sensitive, and complex as it involves micro-currents to high-voltage electrical components.
Required Skills
An industrial electrician must have the following skills:
Mechanical Proficiency
Part of an industrial electrician’s job is managing, maintaining, and repairing complicated machinery. Thus, he is expected to have a thorough understanding of operative machinery, hydraulics, pneumatic systems, industrial motors, robotics, motor circuits, boilers, and mechanical components often found in industrial facilities.
Analytical Thinking and Problem-Solving
Just like commercial electricians, an industrial electrician is also called to analyze electrical problems and use logic to determine faults and find solutions.
Physical Fitness
The job may also involve crawling, lifting heavy objects, climbing ladders, or standing for extended periods in order to install or repair equipment.
Comprehension Skills
Industrial electricians must also have the skills necessary to interpret and make decisions based on technical documents such as electrical schematics and blueprints.
Training and Licensing Needed
Generally, these are the training and licensing requirements that must be fulfilled to work as an industrial electrician:
- Completion of at least grade 10 education for non-union electricians in Ontario and grade 12 for those in a union;
- Obtain pre-apprenticeship training from a credible institution like Skilled Trades College;
- Completion of industrial electrician technical training and 9,000 hours of work experience in the field;
- Construction electrician certification if the employers are not owners of industrial electrical equipment; and
- A Red Seal endorsement upon completion of IP Red Seal exams.
What Is a Commercial Electrician?
Businesses and organizations need commercial electricians to operate. Their job is to install, maintain, and repair electrical systems and devices. They must also ensure the safety and full operational capability of commercial establishments such as stores, offices, schools, supermarkets, restaurants, and shopping centres. The scope of their job could be anything from HVAC and power outlet installations to lighting control systems and switchboard alterations. They can also design, plan, and diagram electrical systems during the construction of new buildings.
Required Skills
A commercial electrician must have the following skills:
Critical Thinking
A large portion of a commercial electrician’s role is to diagnose and troubleshoot electrical problems, which requires critical thinking.
Interpersonal Communication Skills
Commercial electricians don’t work alone. They may work independently on a project, but they still need to communicate with and report to clients who often don’t have extensive knowledge about electrical systems. Aside from that, they must also learn from more experienced colleagues in order to develop and train apprentices in the future as well. Both of these tasks require good interpersonal communication skills.
Resourcefulness
Resourcefulness is a skill all commercial electricians should have. They need to come up with creative solutions to sudden electrical problems—especially those that have not been encountered before—which often happens in a commercial setting.
Training and Licensing Needed
Depending on your province or territory, you might need a certification from a regulatory authority before you can start working. In general, however, these are the things you need to fulfill to become a commercial electrician:
- Completion of at least grade 10 education for non-union electricians in Ontario and grade 12 for those in a union;
- Obtain pre-apprenticeship training from a credible institution like Skilled Trades College;
- Completion of a four to five year-apprenticeship program under the supervision of a journeyperson; and
- Completion of the Interprovincial (IP) Exam to qualify for the Interprovincial Standard’s Red Seal (you can work as an electrician anywhere in Canada once you have the Red Seal).
Industrial vs Commercial Electrician
Become a Successful Apprentice with STC
Industrial vs commercial electrician—which is for you? Both offer a rewarding career, but it all starts with getting the right training so you can become a successful apprentice. That’s exactly what Skilled Trades College of Canada provides. We offer pre-apprenticeship training and mentorship for all types of skilled trades. Most colleges offer similar courses, but they typically span 1.5 years. At Skilled Trades College of Canada, you can complete the course in just three months! Our program focuses on hands-on training with an 80:20 ratio—perfect for those who like to learn by doing. So if you’re ready to kickstart a career in trades, enroll now or get in touch with us for more information.
