Electrician starting advice

[Gary Tollison]

Greetings
Is 45 a bit long in the tooth to start out as a sparky?
I’ve only got my 2391-52 exam left to do in two weeks time. After that, it’s prep for AM2.
Spoke to a chap at a work expo recently. He said that without an ECS card, I wouldn’t have scoobydoo of getting work on any kind of construction site, be it domestic, commercial or industrial.
Advice given by some top peeps on here, electricians mate is the best way to get started. Yes?
And being cheeky, does anyone know anyone in the general Cambridgeshire region who’ll be willing to take a risk on a 45 year old kiwi who, wile limited in experience, isn’t too shabby with theory?
Thanks
Gary

 

[James]

Lots of electricians don’t have an ecs card
There is plenty of work in buildings that are already built.
P.s. I haven’t got one as I have no interest in working in the construction industry.

 

[davesparks]

Ive never had an ecs card and it's never hindered me

 

[Andy78]

I have an ECS card and don't use it, but that's because I'm self employed with mainly all private customers.

Yes it is advantageous to have if you are intending to work employed or self employed on large sites as it is the accepted standard.

Check out the positions you would be interested in applying for and their requirements, this should give you an indication of what you may need.

 

[Jon Bateson]

Just get the card, it’s only a quick h s test then you have options

 

[Deleted account]

Never to late in the day to start up.

I’ve also never had an ecs card. Never needed or been asked for one.

 

[Dustydazzler]

Had one and only ever asked for it once.

45 is no too old to take up a trade , just look after your back and knees otherwise it will be a short career

 

[Jon Bateson]

And your eyes !! Put a terminal through one of mine

 

[Risteard]

Always had a JIB card. Asked for it a couple of times, often with agencies etc. However strangely those asking for it generally aren't actually prepared to pay the JIB rates of pay. Go figure.