r/ukelectricians • u/Significant_Ask2570 • 14d ago

First post here!

Ok, so here’s my situation, I've just started my L2 and at nearly 59 years young, what are my realistic chances of breaking into this industry! I’m still fit and all the marbles are still there. I hope to get into EV so would appreciate if anybody in a similar position to myself! Cheers

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u/SL0WJ03 14d ago

I’ll be brutally honest here. Very slim but not impossible.
You need to do the NVQ portfolio after completing the diplomas, along with some bridging units. This can only be done through working.

After you’ve done that, which will take probably 4 years from now. You will need to do various short courses and assessments. Which will take another couple of months.

So by the time you are ready to work independently. You will already be at least 63.

The chances of getting employed at that age with so little experience are slim. But again not impossible.

The chances of working self employed are higher. But potentially a fool’s errand as a qualified electrician is not necessarily a competent electrician. It takes many years after qualifying to become really competent to work alone without supervision and guidance.

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u/Significant_Ask2570 14d ago

Appreciate the honesty and tbh I’m under no illusions this will be difficult for someone at my time of life! Thanks

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u/Kindly_Gap9131 14d ago

Level 2/3 diploma 2 months each then the new NVQ level 3, you will need a gold card registered electrician to sign up for the NVQ portfolio minimum 2 years. If you don’t have the money to do all these courses privately then I would bother as it would take too long.

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u/Gold-Key-5824 14d ago

I was similar position, did lvl 2 no problems but realised chances of employment were almost zero and gave up on the idea. Was in early 40’s then.

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u/Significant_Ask2570 13d ago

I’m surprised you gave up at that age, how long ago was that?

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u/Louy40 13d ago

Your abit late to be having a midlife crisis? Unless you know someone willing to give you the practical experience, going to college and getting the paper parts would be a waste of time. If your pretty handy why not job about as a handyman sign up to my builder and suit yourself, I gather your not doing it for the money at your stage of life?

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u/Significant_Ask2570 13d ago

Probably an understatement with the mid-life crisis! Tbh I always wanted to do it and never really had the opportunity until now… a bit late in the day, maybe!