Riley Electrical Works LLC

It's a smart decision to hire a licensed electrician.

Who am I?

William, Bill, or Billy. 

What work do you do? 

I am a 32 year old Electrician. 

How did you start? 

I started in high school. My uncle was an electrician and my parents thought it would be a great path. So it was kind of a family thing but not like other companies are.  

What was it like when you first started working? 

Man, I started working right after I graduated, that summer, June, that same month. I really started from the bottom. 17, electrician’s helper. I found jobs on craigslist and linkedin.

Who was your boss and what was it like working for them? 

It was hard. You’re not going to get rich working for someone else. I had to work hard to make an honest living. I always try my best. Don’t doubt a master because you can learn something new everyday. My bosses helped me through a lot and if everyones happy, make magic.

How did you grow as an electrician? 

I try my best to get to work on time. Fully envelope myself into the job. Give it everything I got. I learn more working on my own. I take on the responsibility. 

What was it like completing a job? 

Once everything has been turned on and it tested out perfect. Well then it’s time to head home. haha. Feels great! Master electricians are always looking ahead though. 

What is it like on a job site? 

It’s hectic. You have to protect yourself at all times. Pay attention to other workers and be safe. 

Once you generate an understanding of the trades and construction then the walls and the ceilings, it all starts to come together.

What is it like transitioning from rough to trim? 

You plan and prepare and push through the rough. Then you come back for the trim out and everything culminates to this. It’s a big obstacle to overcome. Electricians are on the job start to finish, so lately I try to make things simple for me and my co-workers. 

How many years have you been at it? 

I started school in 2010, and that counts to me. So, 15 years.

How does it stay engaging? 

Really I spend more time on it. Researching how things are done. Reading the code. Reading the text books. Do tasks well. Look at how other people solved their problems on their jobs. Try to be as well rounded as possible.  

How do you communicate with your team? 

Point at stuff with a tape measure. Mark studs. Use a laser. Scream GOOD if you got too. Use your senses and stay busy. When you have experience it gets easier. Ask questions. There will be certain humps but you can get over them. Stick to your guns. 

The industry is huge and there are a lot of people in it. Make it easier to work together sustainably. Be patient.

Working on a new project? 

I wish that it was easier to buy tools. I like to create kits for certain jobs. I carry around toolboxes and tool bags with the specific tools I need. Things like a torque wrench, pvc torches or a rotary hammer should be easier for trades people to access. Workers need tools! 

I’m paying more attention to where the real value is.