Within the US electrical industry, a construction wireman, or a CW for short, is considered an entry-level, non-registered electrical worker classification.
It’s typically used with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW). It’s a role that serves as a bridge for those who are entering the trade and are not yet part of a formal apprenticeship program.
In this guide, we’ll delve further into what a CW electrician does and how this role differs from other electricians within this competitive industry.
The Role of a CW Electrician
As touched briefly above, the role of a CW electrician is an entry-level position. CWs are typically individuals who have fewer than 8,000 hours of electrical work experience, who have not yet passed an apprenticeship aptitude test, or, as mentioned, not accepted into a formal program.
The primary tasks of a CW electrician include performing basic electrical installation on residential and light commercial projects. A lot of which is done under the supervision of a superior.
The progression path of a CW is considered the pre-apprenticeship stage, which helps enable the individual to eventually become a construction electrician or a Journeyman.
Key Differences from Other Electricians
There are some primary differences between a CW and other electricians, whether that’s an apprentice or a journeyman.
For CWs, they’re a non-registered trainee. Apprentices are registered with the state, and journeymen are licensed professionals in comparison.
Training for CWs is self-paced and less structured than what you’d get in a classroom. For apprentices, training involves a highly structured program lasting four to five years, with mandatory schooling.
CWs require constant supervision, and while apprentices require some supervision, it’s not always constant. Once you reach journeyman status, you can work independently and supervise others.
Generally, CWs get paid a lower fee and have fewer retirement and health benefits. Whereas as you move up the ladder, you get higher pay and full union benefits packages too.
Qualifications and Training
To apply for a CW position for most local Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committees, the candidate in question will need to meet several standards. These include the following:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- A high school diploma or GED equivalent
- Proof of completing one full year of high school algebra
- Documentation of a valid driver’s license, birth certificate, and social security card
- Must be physically fit to perform tasks like working in cramped quarters and lifting or carrying significant weight.
Unlike apprentices, CW training is a lot more flexible and self-paced. You’re likely to experience on-the-job training. As such, CWs accumulate up to 8,000 hours of documented field experience. Classroom requirements are a lot less intensive than those for apprentices, and some locals will allow advancement through work hours accrued alone.
The program is divided into levels from CW-1 through to CW-4/5. Advancement to the next pay grade will often occur as the worker reaches the specific hour milestones required, as well as evaluations.
The transition to professional licensing will often happen when reaching those 8,000 hours in the field. For journeyman status, a CW must typically complete a total of 8,000 to 12,000 hours, as well as pass the state’s journeyman licensing exam.
Many CWs will use the experience gained to strengthen their application for the more competitive and full-benefit indentured apprenticeship program on offer.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
The job duties and responsibilities of a CW electrician will typically require the following
Conduit and raceway systems
Measuring, cutting, and bending various types of conduit with hand tools and mechanical benders.
Device installation
Mounting and connecting basic electrical components like receptacles, wall switches, and light fixtures.
Wire pulling
Assisting in the pulling of electrical, telecommunication, or data cables through conduit systems and open structures.
Rough-in work
Installation of brackets, junction boxes, and support structures for electrical panels and wiring might also be something that is involved in daily tasks.
There are also a number of responsibilities when it comes to material and site management. From transporting heavy materials, equipments and tools to specific work or resource management, where keeping an inventory of materials is crucial for current and future jobs. Site preparation is also sometimes required for facilitating installation.
Career Opportunities and Growth
There are a great deal of career opportunities to be had as a CW electrician. The direct advancement pathway involves pay progression and transitioning to a construction electrician once the 8,000 hours have been reached.
Beyond that, Journeyman status is also achievable. By fast-tracking to an apprenticeship, it can help the individual to quickly rise and advance through the ranks.
A CW electrician is certainly a role worth exploring, so why not consider it as a potential career path this year? Read our electrical course articles to find the best electrician courses in your state.
