The evolution of technology has impacted all walks of life. Most significantly, it has fundamentally changed the way we communicate and some would argue for better and for worse. For electricians, who’ll likely be just as adept at social media as the rest of us, advances in the equipment we use within our homes, businesses and commercial premises have also changed the nature of their profession.
“Electrician_22” (CC BY
2.0) by IFA
teched
Remaining Flexible in an Era of Evolution
Developing technology has meant electricians have had to remain flexible to an ever-changing market. Ten years ago, an electrical engineer would not need to know how to design, automate and computerize controls for electrical processes but now it is increasingly common. In the property sector, for example, a number of estate management companies are using cloud-based software to monitor, analyse and manage energy. Today’s electrician not only needs to know how to fix a light bulb and perhaps its associated network, for example, but must ensure the integrity of its integration with digital monitoring technology remains intact and operational.
The Specifics of this New Technology
Some of the key areas now impacting the work of electricians include the operation of smart technology across homes and businesses. Understanding how different systems “talk” to each other will be something every engineer will need to know in future. Specialism in systems integration and building automation will likely influence career paths. In addition, the internet of things is significantly affecting electrical distribution, while data capture and storage, and technology that has self-learning capabilities will all require a knowledgeable professional in future.
The Challenges of Change
Adapting to changes within the sector is a significant challenge for the modern electrician. With technology impacting the way we live in increasingly diverse ways, an electrical engineer must be similarly pliable to demand. Learning new technologies through training is a must, as is preserving your own integrity by protecting against the risk associated with working with new and often innovative and unfamiliar systems.
Applying Fixes from Afar
Wireless technologies are already picking up issues with single-user tech tools and relaying that information to centralized maintenance centers to allow for fixes to be made directly from an off-site location. This is reducing time and cost. Future technology will continue to support “smart products” that understand their own limitations and can report on faults. Aside from initial installation, an electrician’s job in regards to software could potentially be done entirely from afar.
The Approach of the Modern Electrician
For the modern electrician, the need for comprehensive electrical contractors insurance is even more critical. With advances in OLED lighting, the growth of the electric vehicle market, and PV roof panel innovation amongst many other new and emerging technologies, the work of the electrician is increasingly dynamic. Good insurance will provide both contractor and client with peace of mind that products and property are covered against damage or failure in addition to bodily injury.
“LG Smart Meter – CES 2011 –
Consumer Ele” (CC BY 2.0) by David
Berkowitz
Looking Ahead
The future promises to be challenging for the modern electrician. Yet, for those that truly embrace the profession, it’ll be an exciting journey, and one of constant discovery.
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