Employment of electricians is expected to grow 23 percent from 2010 to 2020, faster than the average for all occupations. Homes and businesses need more wiring than ever before, and electricians will be needed to install the necessary components. Overall growth of the construction industry and maintenance of older equipment in manufacturing plants also will require more electricians.
Alternative power generation, such as solar and wind, is an emerging field that should require more electricians for installation. Furthermore, electricians will be needed to link these alternative power sources to homes and power grids. Employment growth stemming from these sources, however, is largely dependent on government policy.
With greater efficiency and reliability of newer manufacturing plants, demand for electricians in manufacturing should be offset by the closing of old facilities.
Employment of electricians fluctuates with the overall economy. On the one hand, there is great demand for electricians during peak periods of building and manufacturing. On the other hand, workers may experience periods of unemployment when the overall level of construction falls. Inside electricians in factories tend to have the most stable employment.
Electricians with the widest variety of skills should have the best job opportunities.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition