Invest In Yourself
Why is it that most electricians just love to spend money to buy hand tools, but do not seem to spend much money on brain tools?
Simply from an investment perspective, money invested in any kind of tool is better
than the same amount put in the bank. And yes, hand tools are essential to get a job
done. Couldn't the same be said for brain tools?
I think of brain tools as including the most recent edition of the National Electrical
CodeŽ, theory books, workbooks, educational field trips, workshops, seminars of all kinds, license exam
preparation materials, college courses, continuing
education, and even tutors.
What I have noticed over the years as an electrician, electrician instructor, and provider
of electrical study materials is that most electricians do nothing much to
advance their education beyond what they pick up on the job. Obviously you are
an exception if you are reading this. That means you will advance over other
workers.
Back to knowledge. Sure, electricians might not want to invest more in
their education because they feel they learn enough on the job each day. That is
certainly true to a point. So the need for education might partially be satisfied with
daily exposure. But what about those topics which will come in the future? Some
advanced theory study is essential to be ready for the future.
A book I have found useful and have recommended it many many times is
What Color Is Your Parachute? It is available at most
libraries and book stores. There is even a companion web site at http://www.jobhuntersbible.com
where additional tips are given to aid in the career decision process which is
difficult for everyone.
I believe that professional development must be structured to constantly
challenge each electrician to be the best they can be in a career progression.
Take a look at some of the possible career progressions for an electrician by
clicking HERE.
Some plan in needed to include development through the various license levels, specialty
technical training now and then as preparation for job satisfaction, career advancement,
and financial rewards. Static is no better on the radio than it is in a career.
To that end I suggest a career path design. And where the various
educational materials available for sale on web sites like mine suit that path, go ahead and
invest
in yourself.
Check out these titles from Amazon.com which may be of interest to you. Click on the cover to go to Amazon and investigate more about each item.
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