24 Electricity & Electronics Skilled Workers Skilled workers have thorough knowledge of, and skill in, a particular area. Th is knowledge and skill are gained through advanced study, Figure 2-5. Advanced study is obtained through apprenticeship programs or community college programs. Some skilled workers also obtain advanced training from the military services. An apprenticeship is a period of time spent learning a trade from an experienced, skilled worker. Th is training is done on the job. Th is training is usually combined with special classes or self-study courses. Four years is the usual length of time for an apprenticeship program. Many community colleges off er courses and programs in the electronics fi eld. Courses can be taken to learn more about a particular subject, or a program can be followed to gain a particular skill. Th e military services off er many specialized areas of study in the electronics fi eld. Th e opportunities for learning a trade are very good in the military services. Many jobs in the electronics fi eld are skilled positions. Some of these jobs are maintenance and construction electricians, assemblers, and quality control inspectors. Assemblers wire and solder various parts for electronics, such as televisions, speakers, and computers. Quality control inspectors check the fi nished work of the assemblers. Technicians Technicians are specially trained workers capable of doing complex, technical jobs. Many technicians receive their training in two-year programs at community colleges, Figure 2-6. Technicians work with electronic equipment and assist engineers. Th ey have the training needed to service and repair complex machines and components. Engineers rely on technicians to help them conduct research, test machines and components, and design new devices. Th erefore, technicians must stay up-to-date on developments in the electronics industry. Careers for technicians include broadcast technicians, robotics technicians, and computer technicians. Professionals Nearly all professional workers have four years of college training. Many have more advanced degrees, such as masters and doctorates. Professionals have excellent opportunities for advancement. One of the best known professional positions in the electronics industry is the engineer, Figure 2-7. Engineers design and monitor the building of new equipment. Th eir goal is to design equipment that runs smoothly and completes a job effi ciently. Once this goal is met, technicians are assigned to maintain the equipment. Engineers must have a solid background in math and science. Th is background allows them to visualize designs before putting them down on paper. Teaching is another professional position in the elec- tronics industry. Teachers of electronics have the opportunity to challenge students interested in electronics. Th ey can share their knowledge and interest in electronics with their students. Th e rewards of teaching are many. Phovoir/Shutterstock.com Figure 2-6. Technicians may be required to do complex tasks. Advanced classes and on-the-job training are usually required. Intel Corp. Figure 2-5. Skilled workers are needed in all areas of electronics. Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.