Electricians and Electrical Engineers are both professions that work with electrical systems, ensuring their proper functioning. Both careers are vital for powering our world and ensuring the safety and functionality of electrical systems.
Despite some similarities, the scope and nature of these professions differ, with Electricians focusing more on hands-on installation and maintenance, and the role of Electrical Engineers emphasising design, development and innovation.
Learning areas/subjects
You may be interested in this occupation group if you enjoyed these learning areas at school:
- Physics
- Automotive
- Electronics
- Metalwork and engineering
Skills
- Problem-solving
- Teamwork
Electrical Engineers
Electrical Engineers design, develop and supervise the manufacture, installation, operation and maintenance of equipment, machines and systems for the generation, distribution, utilisation and control of electric power.
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Electricians
Electricians design, assemble, install, test, commission, diagnose, maintain and repair electrical networks, systems, circuits, equipment, components, appliances and facilities for industrial, commercial and domestic purposes, and service and repair lifts, escalators and related equipment.
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Electronics Engineers
Electronics Engineers design, develop, adapt, install, test and maintain electronic components, circuits and systems used for computer systems, communication systems, entertainment, transport and other industrial applications.
FIND OUT MORELatest stories from women in STEM
"To see every woman emancipated from the “heavy” work of the household by the aid of electricity is in itself a worthy object."
Electrical Engineer
"We have female engineers to thank for many of the world’s greatest innovations, yet they make up only 12 per cent of engineers employed in Australia. [Recognition can] … provide inspiration to others to break down barriers and excel in the engineering industry."
Engineer
"The most rewarding part of my job is seeing my team excel and achieve and sometimes exceed our goals."
Senior Engineering Officer 37 Squadron
Meet Rachel, Signalling Electrician Apprentice
Find out about Rachel's life as an Apprentice Signalling Electrician, working in the rail industry.
Source: (c) 2023 Australasian Railway Association via MyFuture
Sonja Basson, Technical Director Renewables
Sonja Basson is an Electrical Engineer whose curiosity, imagination and drive have led her to an exciting global career in renewable energy.
Video source: STELR via MyFuture
Only 3% of construction industry tradies are women. Electrician Amanda Hewer says girls can build on that
Traditional preconceptions about who belongs in trade are starting to shift, slowly! Read about some of the women in trade who are paving the way and changing the culture.
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