Becoming an Electronics Technician
Let's take a look at the definition and growth statement that originated with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Department of Employment and Training: "Electronics technicians test, repair, and service most types of electronics equipment. They may build prototypes of newly-designed equipment and assist engineers in routine design. Electronics technicians must possess an understanding of the field in which they are working. Increases in research and development budgets should spur the growth of new products, meaning rapid job growth for electronics technicians to test equipment for product quality. In addition, companies are expected to improve and update products more rapidly than in the past as competition increases and technology advances. Well-qualified Electronics Technicians should have the most opportunity for employment."
What does this all mean to you? If you are thinking about a career in electronics, would like earn a good salary, and enjoy working with your hands in a clean, modern environment, then you may want to consider a career in Electronics Technology. Electronics offers a broad range of possibilities, including hands-on positions in Computers, Networking, Audio, Video, Communications, Telecommunications, Medical Electronics, Aviation, Radio/Television, Automotive Technology, Fiber Optics, Security Systems, Satellites, and more!
Often, prospective students ask, "how long do I need to go to school?" The answer lies in understanding just what "electronics" is. When broken down to basic building blocks, most electronics equipment is made up of components and circuits. A well-trained electronics technician thoroughly understands these components and circuits from the ground up and is therefore able to perform service on just about anything electronic. This translates into solid career potential for the technician. Complete, fundamental and solid career training takes time to complete properly, typically in the range of 18 months from start to completion.
Positions available to a well trained, electronics technician can be divided into two categories. In-house or field service. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. In-house technicians generally do not meet with the public, so are able to dress casually for work. They also work in the same location every day. Field-service technicians often meet and work with the public. Therefore, they must dress accordingly and have good customer relation skills. Also, their work is at different locations and requires travel. Depending on the position, the travel could be local, regional, national, and even international. Salaries are extremely varied, depending on the type of position, how much training you have, and other economic factors, such as size and type of employer you work for. Well trained electronics technicians are less likely to be severely affected by economic downturns since they can move about in so many different areas of electronics, wherever employment lies.
If you consider this field, it is advisable to contact a few electronics employers in your area and ask lots of questions about career opportunities. Libraries, high school guidance counselors, and the Internet can also provide you with lots of information. Don't forget to contact local schools. Colleges and technical schools have career advisors who can meet with you to discuss career options, too.
Editorial provided by Don Harris, Director of RETS Technical Center.
