Why the Trades Industry Needs More Electricians with Jon Lock

Host Andrew Brown sits down with Jon Lock—a working electrician and trades advocate—to break down the real-world journey through the electrician apprenticeship program, what it’s like navigating the union vs non-union electrician landscape, and the often-overlooked realities of pursuing a skilled trades career path.

Whether you're curious about how to become an electrician, preparing for your electrical journeyman license requirements, or simply passionate about the future of the trades industry, this episode is packed with practical advice, honest reflection, and expert insights from someone who’s lived it.

IN THIS EPISODE:

(00:01) – The reality of starting out in the trades: Jon talks about attitude, attendance, and being coachable when entering an electrician apprenticeship program.

(08:42) – Union vs Non-Union: The insider’s take: What to expect from union vs non-union electrician routes, pay differences, and access to tools and training.

(15:36) – Getting into the trades without knowing anyone: Jon shares how he got into the skilled trades career path without prior connections—and how YouTube played a role.

(22:14) – The wages, the timeline, and what to expect: Breaking down the electrical journeyman license requirements and the pay scale from apprentice to journeyman.

(30:50) – Failing the test—then passing it: Jon opens up about failing the licensing exam twice and how he finally earned his license.

(39:05) – Advice for new tradespeople: His top 3 qualities for apprentice success—and how to stand out in today’s trades industry.

Key Takeaways:

Electrician apprenticeship programs are highly competitive—especially in the union system—so showing up, staying humble, and learning fast are key.

Understanding the pros and cons of union vs non-union electrician jobs can change your entire career trajectory.

The skilled trades career path offers solid pay, pride in your work, and long-term job security—but only if you're willing to put in the time.

To meet electrical journeyman license requirements, apprentices need 8,000 hours of work and often several attempts at the licensing test—persistence pays off.

About the Guest:

Jon Lock is a licensed electrician and content creator behind Daily Electrician, where he shares the day-to-day realities of the trade on YouTube and Instagram. With experience in both commercial and residential electrical work, Jon speaks from the front lines of the skilled trades industry—offering advice, mentorship, and career insight for those exploring how to become an electrician. He's passionate about craftsmanship, lifelong learning, and helping the next generation navigate their skilled trades career path.

Keywords:

electrician apprenticeship program, union vs non-union electrician, how to become an electrician, skilled trades career path, electrical journeyman license requirements, Skilled Trades, Trades Industry, Andrew Brown, Jon Lock, Toolfetch, Carpentry, HVAC, Electricians, Plumbers, Millwrights, Construction, Craftsmanship, Problem-solving, Creativity, Tradespeople, Advocacy, Trades Careers, Industry Experts, Contractors, Education, Skilled Trades Advisory Council

Resource Links:

• YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@DailyElectrician
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DailyElectricianYT