2 answers
Miraj
Student
Duquesne, Pennsylvania
1
Question
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would it be more worth it to get a CDL or certification for electrical
What would be more worth it. general contracting and electrical, or general contracting and CDL?
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2 answers
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1464
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey there Miraj!
Good question man! Alright so, It really comes down to what kind of work you see yourself enjoying and how soon you want to start making money.
Going the electrical route takes more time, but it can set you up for a long, stable career. You’ll start as an apprentice, work your way up to a journeyman, and eventually, if you want, become a master electrician. The pay grows as you gain experience, and electricians are always in demand because people and businesses will always need electrical work done. You could end up working in residential homes, commercial buildings, or even specialized fields like industrial automation. Plus, once you get enough experience, you can start your own business, giving you more control over your work and income.
Getting a CDL is much quicker—just a few weeks of training and you’re ready to hit the road. Trucking jobs pay well, especially for long-haul or specialized freight, and the demand is pretty steady. It’s a good option if you want to start earning as soon as possible. The trade-off is the lifestyle. Trucking can mean long hours on the road, being away from home, and dealing with unpredictable schedules. Some people love the freedom of the open road, while others find it exhausting.
If you’re in it for the long game and want a skill that lets you build a career over time, electrical is the way to go. If you want to start making money sooner and don’t mind life on the road, CDL is a solid choice. Either way, both options offer good job security—it’s just about which path fits your life better.
Try shadowing or talking to professionals in both fields before making a decision. Spend a day with an electrician and a truck driver to see what their daily work is actually like. You might find that one fits your personality and lifestyle better than the other. Plus, networking with people in the industry can open doors to job opportunities, apprenticeships, or company-sponsored training programs.
If you’re unsure which path to take, consider getting a basic construction job first. Working in general contracting will expose you to both electrical work and CDL-related tasks (like operating heavy machinery or transporting materials). This hands-on experience can help you decide which career feels like a better fit while earning money and building valuable skills in the meantime. Plus, if you decide to go the electrical route, you’ll already have experience in construction, which can be a big advantage.
Look into union apprenticeship programs for both electricians and CDL drivers. Many trade unions offer paid training, job placement, and even benefits while you learn. This way, you can get hands-on experience without the financial burden of paying for school upfront. Plus, unions often have strong job security and higher wages compared to non-union work.
Consider cross-training in both fields to maximize job opportunities. You could start with a CDL for quick income while slowly working toward an electrical certification. This way, you have immediate earning potential and a backup plan while investing in a long-term career. Some companies even need employees who can both drive and handle electrical work, making you more valuable in the job market.
Look into military or government training programs that offer free or low-cost education for both trades. The military, for example, trains electricians and truck drivers while paying you, and many government workforce programs provide grants or scholarships for trade certifications. This could be a great way to gain skills, experience, and even job placement without taking on debt.
Good question man! Alright so, It really comes down to what kind of work you see yourself enjoying and how soon you want to start making money.
Going the electrical route takes more time, but it can set you up for a long, stable career. You’ll start as an apprentice, work your way up to a journeyman, and eventually, if you want, become a master electrician. The pay grows as you gain experience, and electricians are always in demand because people and businesses will always need electrical work done. You could end up working in residential homes, commercial buildings, or even specialized fields like industrial automation. Plus, once you get enough experience, you can start your own business, giving you more control over your work and income.
Getting a CDL is much quicker—just a few weeks of training and you’re ready to hit the road. Trucking jobs pay well, especially for long-haul or specialized freight, and the demand is pretty steady. It’s a good option if you want to start earning as soon as possible. The trade-off is the lifestyle. Trucking can mean long hours on the road, being away from home, and dealing with unpredictable schedules. Some people love the freedom of the open road, while others find it exhausting.
If you’re in it for the long game and want a skill that lets you build a career over time, electrical is the way to go. If you want to start making money sooner and don’t mind life on the road, CDL is a solid choice. Either way, both options offer good job security—it’s just about which path fits your life better.
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Syuk Chang, always an insightful presence! Appreciate the support!
Dr H
Duane Foley
Draftsman/ Carpenter
11
Answers
Palmer, Alaska
Updated
Duane’s Answer
I would say Electrical. A CDL is relatively easy to get at any point I believe it can be a 6 week course. To become a Journeyman electrician takes several years depending on the state.