Electronics technicians work for companies that design, manufacture, test, and maintain electronic equipment. Certification is offered by organizations such as ISCET and ETA, which require passing exams. A degree is not required, but it can make you more employable. Good problem-solving and communication skills are important.
Electronics technicians work for companies that design, manufacture, test, and maintain electronic equipment. You can gain the technical knowledge to test to become a certified electronics technician by attending a community college or technical school program in electronics technology. Other technicians pursue an internship or position program that provides on-the-job training or gain a combination of education and experience through courses in electronic technology and on-the-job learning. Voluntary certification is offered by several organizations, including the International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians (ISCET) and the International Association of Electronics Technicians (ETA). Student chapters from these organizations, designed to help familiarize students with the field and prepare them for certification, are available at many colleges and technical schools around the world.
Certification typically does not require a college or technical school degree, but does require candidates to pass exams in which they demonstrate detailed knowledge of the field. People seeking certification, especially certifications that specialize in travel, often have already spent years working in the field. If you’re just starting out in the field, you can still earn a lower-level certification. For example, an associate-level electronic certification covering basic electronics is available for technicians or students working for ISCET.
Keep in mind that while a degree is not required for certification, employers looking for electronics technicians may require a formal education when hiring. Many will require a two-year degree, and others may only require a high school diploma and necessary experience. Pursuing a degree program can potentially make you more usable in the field.
Many community college and technical school programs are designed to prepare electronics technicians for certification. Some programs also offer internship and apprenticeship opportunities, so pursuing formal education can help you make connections and find employment in the field. If you decide to major as a certified electronics technician, some of the core courses you can likely expect include classes in electricity, electrical computing, basic wiring, and digital electronics. If you plan to specialize in a specific area of electronics, such as radar, computer or industrial, additional courses in those areas would be required.
Another quality that will help you become a certified electronics technician is good problem-solving skills. Strong communication skills are also important. The ability to be flexible and work alone in a lab or team environment can also be valuable in this field.
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