NICEIC encourages school leavers to consider electrotechnical careers

NICEIC, the UK's leading certification and training body for the electrical industry, is encouraging students receiving their GCSE results to explore a career in the electrical and energy sector.

The electrical industry is experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing demand for sustainable energy solutions and net zero goals. According to the government’s latest Energy Trends Report*, the renewable share of total electricity generation in the UK reached 50.9% in the first quarter of 2024.

As electricity becomes the primary energy source for homes, businesses, and transport, advancements in electrical generation and storage technologies are creating more career path opportunities for young people. Paul Collins, NICEIC Technical Director, said: "A career in the electrotechnical industry offers a fantastic opportunity for young people to gain valuable skills and build a successful future.

“With excellent salary prospects and job security, this provides an attractive option for those seeking a stable and well-paid career. As the UK looks to individuals and businesses to step-up and achieve its net zero goals, the demand for skilled electricians and engineers is continuing to grow, creating ample opportunities for career progression and advancement.”

Unlike traditional academic routes (such as a university degree), training courses and apprenticeships provide practical experience and allow individuals to learn while they earn. With a wealth of opportunities and a strong job market, the electrotechnical industry offers a rewarding and fulfilling path for those seeking a dynamic and skilled profession.

Demi Whitehead (pic), Electrician at NICEIC-certified business William Davis Homes, exemplifies the career progression possible within the electrotechnical industry. Having started as an apprentice, Demi has developed a comprehensive skill set, which was demonstrated when she reached the final of SkillELECTRIC 2023, a competition which showcases the UK's top electrical talent.

Demi commented: “The electrotechnical industry provides such a wide range of areas that you can choose to specialise in, whether that’s working within a business to work on new homes like I do, installing electric vehicle charging points and solar panels, or even becoming a teacher in the subject.

“Working as an electrician means that no two days are the same. It’s a great way to start earning money while learning, after leaving school. My advice to school leavers who are considering this as a career is to make sure you listen to and retain as much knowledge as possible early on and to prioritise having strong communication and time-keeping skills.”

NICEIC works with over 40,000 certified businesses across the UK and is committed to supporting those in the industry through its training course offerings and wide range of exclusive resources. The leading certification and training body encourages school leavers to learn more about upskilling and becoming qualified in the electrical and energy sector.