To work as an electric motor repairer, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• have one to five years of related work experience; and
• complete moderate-term, on-the-job training.

Education after high school

Some electric motor repairers learn their skills through formal training programs. Professional-technical schools and two-year colleges offer programs in electrical equipment installation and repair. In these programs you learn about electrical circuitry, simple gearing, and linkages.

Some manufacturers offer training programs that lead to a certificate. These programs cover a variety of motors and appliances or focus on a specific type of motor.

Work experience

Most people prepare for this occupation by working up to it. You typically begin by helping in machine or electrical workshops, gaining experience with tools and motors.

On-the-job training

Most electric motor repairers learn additional skills on the job from experienced workers. Usually you begin by working on one type of motor. As you gain skills, you learn to repair other types of motors and appliances. Training includes:

• blueprint reading;
• use of tools and equipment;
• equipment repair; and
• safety procedures.

Training lasts up to one year.

Military training

Some branches of the military train people to be electrical products repairers. Training lasts four to 22 weeks, depending on your specialty. Additional training is on the job.