Paul James

Paul James is training to become an electrician.

Trades World spoke to Paul to find out more about his life, changes, and future ambitions in the trades.

What did motivate you to pursue a career in the trades?  

It has been a long dreamed ambition of mine to become an electrician from leaving school.

Can you tell us about your employment history?

Up to now I have worked as a security guard. Recently, I obtained a professional qualification in PAT testing which actually motivated me to do the electrical course.

How is the electrical training going for you?

It is going really well. I am enjoying it a lot.

What qualities does someone need to have in order to be a good electrician? 

As long as they understand the course material, people would do absolutely fine in their training. My English and Maths are not very good, but with help of the tutors and the distance learning from home, I managed to do well.

What things have you being doing in your electrical training?

I have learnt how to connect and test different electrical systems. Inspecting and testing is an important part of the course, as well as knowing how to wire cables and other similar things from the electrical trade.

What is your most enjoyable part of the course? 

I enjoy all of the practical training.

How easy is it for you to find the balance between the practical and the theoretical part of the course?

It is very to find the balance because the tutors are always there for you. They will explain everything for you, especially when you have questions and want to know more about the industry.

What advice would you give to people considering a career in the trades?

If you are thinking of entering the trades…take the pledge and go for it.

What is your plan after you finish your course and become fully qualified electrician?

I am already running my PAT testing business and my end goal is to expand it further and see how it goes from there.