A Detailed Overview of Our Home Professional Infographic

In this post, we’ve listed all of the information found in our most recent Infographic about Home Professionals. Important segments of the Infographic were broken down to give you an overall view of the Home Professional contracting business in text form.

This information includes education, training, certifications, income and much more to give you more insight as to what these professions do and are capable of.

Electricians

What is an Electrician?

An Electrician is a highly skilled Home Professional. Electricians not only face risk at work, but are also trained to handle a wide variety of issues with electrical power, lighting and control systems.

The Road to Becoming an Electrician

1. Start with a high school diploma or GED.

• An electrician needs a foundation in math , science and other courses such as electronics.

2. Receive formal training.

• Electrician apprenticeship programs are sponsored by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) or Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC).
• These programs include both classroom courses and on-the-job training, and take about 4 years to complete.

3. Start working.

• Those already with a year or more of training are usually called Helpers.
• Helpers work alongside at least one journeyman electrician on job sites.

4. Get licensed.

• Although electrician licensing requirements vary from area to area, electricians usually must pass a location-specific examination that tests their knowledge of electrical theory, the National Electrical Code, and local electric and building codes.

5. Continue learning.

• Regulations are always changing.
• Continuing education by taking courses that offer unique certifications can not only keep electricians up-to-date, but can look very nice on a resume.

Electrician Job Statistics

• The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects jobs opportunities to grow by 14 percent between 2014 to 2024
• In Arizona, the annual job growth for electricians is 43.2%
• The average annual salary for an electrician is $51,880

Electrician Certification – Common Courses

For certification as an Electrician, you can expect to take the following courses some time in your education:

• Introduction to Electricity – prepares students to perform electrical work safely with an introduction to reading floor plans and blueprints
• Residential Wiring – common installations and issues with residential wiring, including lighting, major appliances and working with older wiring and components
• Commercial Wiring – focuses on the electrical requirements and distribution for a typical commercial facility, including factories; touches on special circuits, large-scale appliances, load requirements, and the calculations necessary to create a successful electrical system
• Electrical Code – An overview of the National Electrical Code, including applications, intent, evolution, applicable tables, minimum requirements and protection devices

Plumbers

What are Plumbers?

Plumbers install and repair water supply lines, waste disposal systems, and related appliances and fixtures to keep homes and businesses flowing smoothly.

The Road to Becoming a Plumber

1. Get your high school diploma or GED.

• A plumber needs a foundation in math , science and computers. Taking classes in Drafting as well as blueprint reading would be beneficial.

2. Receive your vocational training.

• Take plumbing vocational classes at a trade school or technical or community college. The education you will receive will be on the topics of water supply and drainage systems, as well as their respective piping equipment.

3. Complete an apprenticeship program.

• Apprenticeships can be found in local unions and organizations such as the Associated Builders and Contractors and the National Association of Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors.

4. Get licensed.

• A majority of states require that you have a plumber’s license. Licensing standards vary from state to state.

Plumber Job Statistics

• The projected job growth for Plumbers from 2012 to 2022 is expected to be 21%
• On average, plumbers make approximately $21.94 per hour
• Many current plumbers are expected to retire over the next decade, and some employers are already reporting a shortage of qualified applicants in the plumbing field

Plumbing – Common Courses

For certification as a Plumber, you can expect to take the following courses some time in your education:

• Home Plumbing Inspection – In this course, you will learn what to inspect and how to communicate the repairs that are recommended to put the system, fixtures and components back in top operation.
• Piping, Tubing and Soldering – Students will receive a certification from the manufacturer for PEX tubing and CSST/TracPiping. Students will receive classroom and hands-on training for copper soldering and they will also work with PVC.
• Plumbing Repair – This course guides you through the repairs of plumbing fixtures throughout the home. Students will completely rebuild water closets, faucets and learn the many techniques that it takes to make repairs successful.
• The Hot Water System – This course teaches you about the construction and operation of both gas and electric water heaters.
• The Sewer and Drain System – This course teaches the various configurations of sewer and drain systems along with the fittings used. Students will understand the need for proper venting and the many different ways the sewer and drain system is vented.

Roofing Contractors

What is a Roofing Contractor?

A roofing contractor (or roofer) is a craftsperson who fixes and replaces roofs on homes and other structures, ensuring that they’re safe and secure from inclement weather.

The Road to Becoming a Roofer

1.Apprentice Programs

• Roofers are required to gain their education through 3-year apprentice programs, which are provided by local roofers’ unions.

2. Skills Required

• Due to the fact that roofing requires physical labor, it is important to be in great physical condition.
• Any experience with metal-working can prove beneficial in helping prospective roofers install metal roofing.

3. Contractor’s Exam

• The passing score is determined by your state licensing board.

4. Get licensed

• A majority of states require that you have a roofer’s license which have requirements that vary from state to state

Roofing Job Statistics

• The expected job growth for the Roofing industry from 2014 to 2024 is expected to be 13%
• The average annual pay is around $37,000
• The projected numeric change in employment from 2014 to 2024 is 15,800

Roofing Learning Courses

• Courses to learn the Roofing trade varies in both apprenticeship programs and certificate programs
• Generally, Roofing contractors learn skills based on carpentry

Carpet and Flooring Contractor

What do they do?

Carpet and Flooring contractors install various floor coverings in both commercial buildings and residences. This type of Home Professional measures, cuts, stretches, and lays carpeting, while gluing or securing flooring. These contractors also prepare the uncovered floors, often by sanding down any uneven spots in the floorboards.

The Road to Becoming a Carpet and Flooring Contractor

1. No degree is required

• An Associate’s degree in Business Management is helpful for independent contractors as well as supervisors
• State licensing requirements vary with some states having little to no regulations

2. Key skills

• Customer Service, Math and Measuring, Physical Strength and knowledge of carpeting and flooring tools

3. No formal training is required

• Most workers in this profession learn on the job

Job Salary

• The median annual salary for carpet installers is approximately $37,220

Pest Control Technicians

What do they do?

Pest Control Technicians (also known as contractors) are a type of Home Professional that diagnose and control pest problems, which can include cockroaches, termites and even small rodents. They are also expected to perform inspections and form methods to eliminate pests.

The Road to Becoming a Pest Control Technician

1. Most employers require a high school diploma or equivalent for employment

• Some employers and state agencies require formal training

2. Most states require licensing or certification in order to work

• A minimum age of 18 years and a passing score for a written exam required for licensing

3. Some states require continuing education to maintain licenses

Job Statistics

• The national average annual salary is $30,723
• Projected job growth from 2012-2022 is 20%

Landscaping Contractor

What do Landscaping Contractors do?

A landscape architect or designer interacts with clients and follow their guidelines in order to artfully design outdoor spaces.

Architects analyze, design, and oversee the implementation of outdoor spaces such as parks, historic areas and highways.

Landscaping Designers design the landscape and typically focus on smaller spaces, such as residential property and gardens.

Landscaping and Groundskeeping workers maintain, care, and upkeep plants and structures around them.

The Road to Becoming a Landscaping Contractor

• Landscaping Architect: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in landscape architecture
• Landscape Designer: Associate, bachelor’s or master’s in horticulture, botany and/or soil science
• Both types of contractors require certification, with architects also requiring internship
• There is no required education for Groundskeeping, but they must be licensed for pesticide use

Job Statistics

• The median annual salary for Architects is $64,570
• The median annual salary for Designers is $42,142
• The median annual salary for Groundskeeping is $24,290
• Projected job growth from 2012-2022 for architects and designers is 14%
• Projected job growth from 2012-2022 for Groundskeeping is 13%

Window Contractor

What do Window Contractors do?

Window contractors set up installations, removals, and repairs of window treatments in residential and commercial buildings.

The Road to Becoming a Window Contractor

• Employers often require documented experience of at least on year
• Workers are expected to be well versed in customer service skills, communication, interpersonal, organizational, and punctuality
• Personal vehicle ownership, valid driver’s license with a clean record
• EPA Certification may be required alongside local and regional licensing
• Licenses are valid for two years

Job Salary

• The median annual salary is approximately $49,434

Doors, Gates and Activating Devices Contractors

What do these Contractors do?

These types of contractors modify repair all types of residential, commercial and/or industrial doors, including overhead and sliding door assemblies, as well as power activated doors, gates and other access control device.

The Road to Becoming this type of Contractor

• Licensing is required with average requirements being 407 days of training and $282 in fees
• Workers must be able to pass an exam
• No education is required, but a high school diploma or equivalent helps in finding an employer

Job Salary

• Annual salaries vary, with Door Technicians receiving $37,933 and Installers receiving $43,200

HVAC Contractor

What do HVAC Contractors do?

HVAC stands for Heating, Venting, and Air Conditioning. This brand of Home Professional installs, repairs and maintains the ductwork, electrical equipment and controls found in residential and commercial heat, ventilation, and cooling systems.

The Road to becoming a HVAC Contractor

• Certificate, associate degree or apprenticeship program
• Some employers offer on-the-job training
• A Certification in Refrigerant Handling from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is mandatory
• Some states require licensing
• While not required, HVAC contractors who have completed formal training typically have better employment opportunities

Job Statistics

• HVAC Service Manager: $63,972 annual salary
• HVAC Technician: $41,643 annual salary
• Projected job growth of 14% from 2014-2024

Pool Contractor

What do Pool Contractors do?

Pool contractors build, install, and repair swimming pools, hot tubs, and other large water equipment. Contractors fit and install pipes, filters, wires, lines, valves and pool heaters, making sure to discuss the parameters and requirements of the work with the customer throughout the process.

The Road to Becoming a Pool Contractor

• No education is required, but education in construction-related or home professional fields or experience can be beneficial
• Licensing requirements vary from state to state
• Some states require contractors pass an exam for licensing
• Others require licensed contractors to complete the work when cost is above a certain threshold

Job Statistics

• Construction Project Manager: $60,000 annual salary
• Pool & Spa Service/Technician: $36,425 annual salary
• Projected growth of 1.6% from 2011-2021

Final Thoughts

As you can probably tell yourself, this is a hefty amount of information and data provided. If you’re looking for something easier to digest, then look no further than here!