Installer: what they do, how to become one, and where to study

If you're someone who loves working with your hands, enjoys problem-solving, and is passionate about making things work, then a career as an Installer might be the perfect fit for you. Installers are responsible for setting up and installing various types of equipment and systems, including mechanical, electrical, and electronic systems. Whether you're interested in installing home appliances, industrial machinery, or technology infrastructure, this profession can be a great way to turn your skills and interests into a rewarding career. By the way, recently the ProfGuide career guidance center has developed a precise career orientation test, which will tell you which professions are suitable for you, provide a conclusion about your personality type and intelligence.

Specializations

The field of installation is vast, and there are many different specializations that Installers can pursue. Some of the most popular specializations include:

• Electrical installation: Installers in this field specialize in installing and maintaining electrical systems, including wiring, lighting, and other electrical equipment.
• Mechanical installation: Mechanical Installers focus on installing and maintaining machinery and other mechanical systems, such as heating and cooling systems, plumbing, and ventilation systems.
• Electronic installation: Electronic Installers work with electronic equipment, including computers, telecommunications systems, and audio and video equipment.
• Appliance installation: Appliance Installers specialize in installing household appliances, such as refrigerators, ovens, and washing machines.

Tasks and Responsibilities

As an Installer, you will be responsible for a wide range of tasks and responsibilities. Some of the most common include:

• Reading and interpreting installation instructions and blueprints
• Measuring and cutting materials to fit specific spaces
• Assembling and installing equipment and systems
• Testing and troubleshooting systems to ensure they are working properly
• Maintaining and repairing systems over time
• Communicating with customers and other team members to ensure installations are completed on time and to the customer's satisfaction

Pros and Cons

Like any profession, there are pros and cons to working as an Installer. Here are some of the key factors to consider:

Pros:

• Hands-on work that can be satisfying and rewarding
• High demand for Installers in many industries
• Opportunities for advancement and career growth
• Good earning potential

Cons:

• Physical work that can be strenuous and demanding
• Potential for working in tight spaces or at heights
• May require working outside in various weather conditions
• Potential for travel or long hours depending on the job

Demand

The demand for Installers varies by industry and location, but overall, there is a high demand for skilled Installers in many areas. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in the installation, maintenance, and repair field is projected to grow 4% from 2019 to 2029, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. Some of the industries with the highest demand for Installers include:

• Construction
• Manufacturing
• Telecommunications
• Electrical and electronic equipment repair
• Home appliance repair

Salary Ranges

The salary range for Installers varies depending on the industry, location, and level of experience. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for Installers in the United States was $42,070 in May 2020. Here are some examples of median salaries for Installers in different countries:

• United States: $42,070
• Canada: CAD 51,878
• United Kingdom: £28,000
• Australia: AUD 63,630

Where do Installers work?

Installers work in a variety of settings, including homes, offices, factories, and construction sites. Installers are needed wherever equipment and systems need to be installed or repaired. Some Installers work for specific companies or industries, while others work as independent contractors or are self-employed.

Important qualities of a successful Installer

To be a successful Installer, there are several important qualities that you should possess. Here are some of the key traits that can help you succeed in this profession:

• Attention to detail: As an Installer, you will need to be able to follow detailed instructions and blueprints to ensure that systems are installed correctly. Paying close attention to details is crucial for ensuring that installations are safe, reliable, and efficient.
• Problem-solving skills: Installers often encounter unexpected challenges or problems during installations, and it's important to be able to quickly and creatively solve these issues to keep the project on track.
• Physical fitness: This profession can be physically demanding, so it's important to be in good physical shape and able to handle the physical demands of the job.
• Communication skills: Installers often work with customers, contractors, and other team members, so strong communication skills are essential for ensuring that installations are completed on time and to the customer's satisfaction.
• Technical knowledge: Depending on the specialization, Installers may need to have specific technical knowledge or certifications to work with certain equipment or systems.

Step-by-Step Career Path

If you're interested in becoming an Installer, here is a step-by-step career path you can follow:

1. Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent.
2. Consider vocational or technical training in a specific field of installation, such as electrical, mechanical, or electronic installation.
3. Gain on-the-job experience through apprenticeships, internships, or entry-level positions.
4. Pursue additional certifications or licenses, depending on the specialization and industry.
5. Consider additional education, such as an associate's or bachelor's degree, to advance in your career or move into a management position.

How to Become an Installer

The path to becoming an Installer can vary depending on the specialization and industry. In some cases, a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training may be sufficient to enter the profession. In other cases, specific certifications or technical training may be required. Some industries may also require additional education, such as an associate's or bachelor's degree. Here are some common steps you can take to become an Installer in the United States:

1. Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent.
2. Consider vocational or technical training in a specific field of installation, such as electrical, mechanical, or electronic installation.
3. Gain on-the-job experience through apprenticeships, internships, or entry-level positions.
4. Consider obtaining industry-specific certifications, such as the Certified Electrical Contractor (CEC) or the Certified Electronics Technician (CET) certification.
5. Pursue additional education, such as an associate's or bachelor's degree, to advance in your career or move into a management position.

Where to Become an Installer

If you're interested in becoming an Installer, there are many educational and training programs available in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Here are some examples of schools or organizations that offer Installer training or education:

United States:

• National Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (NJATC)
• National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA)
• Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC)
• Penn Foster Career School
• Ashworth College

Canada:

• Ontario College of Trades
• British Columbia Institute of Technology
• Saskatchewan Polytechnic
• Northern Alberta Institute of Technology
• Nova Scotia Community College

United Kingdom:

• City & Guilds
• The Electrical Contractors' Association (ECA)
• The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET)
• Association of Plumbing and Heating Contractors (APHC)
• Construction Industry Training Board (CITB)

Australia:

• Master Builders Association of Victoria (MBAV)
• Master Plumbers and Mechanical Services Association of Australia (MPMSAA)
• Australian Institute of Refrigeration, Air Conditioning and Heating (AIRAH)
• TAFE NSW
• Holmesglen Institute

 Can You Enter the Profession with a Different Degree?

While a degree in a relevant field can be helpful for entering the profession of an Installer, it is not always required. Depending on the industry and specialization, on-the-job training or vocational training may be sufficient for entry-level positions. However, having a degree in a related field such as engineering or construction management can help you advance in your career or move into management positions.

In conclusion, the profession of an Installer offers a variety of specializations and career opportunities in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and telecommunications. With the high demand for skilled Installers in many areas, this profession offers good earning potential and opportunities for advancement. To become a successful Installer, you should possess attention to detail, problem-solving skills, physical fitness, communication skills, and technical knowledge. With the right education, training, and experience, you can build a fulfilling and rewarding career as an Installer.