A Proper Guide to Become a Locksmith
The job of a locksmith seems very simple to others. On the contrary, it is one of the most difficult jobs on earth. Technology advances at a rapid pace, due to which the locking system of a lock gets tougher almost every year. This means that a locksmith has to keep pace with the new technologies used in modern day locks. A locksmith has to work with various types of safes and locks.
They also need to provide a wide range of services to people related to locks. Locksmiths come for your rescue if you find yourself locked out of your home or car, they can also help you choose the best possible lock for your business and home.
Locksmiths also have to deal with new lock installation jobs, cutting keys for locks, rekey locks, and even repair defective or malfunctioning locking devices. Such a professional has to work with several products and tools in order to deal with simple locks and also some of the toughest security and locking systems on earth. As a locksmith, it is very important that you also use various tools such as grinders, drills, and lathes with ease.
Training Necessary to Become a Locksmith
When you talk about proper training to become a locksmith, it basically involves hands-on experience and classroom training. You will come across several training programs and locksmithing schools, which provide online courses and in-person courses. You may also visit the website for ALOA or Associated Locksmiths of America where you will find a list of approved training programs.
Locksmith training programs include key identification, lock installation, key making, residential locks, lock picking, automotive locks, commercial locks, electronic access locks, high-security locks, master key systems, business and home security systems, and vault and safe locks. If you can successfully complete in-person programs, you can have an opportunity to put your training into practice on the various tools used by locksmiths.
In order to gain some additional experience, there are several locksmiths that complete an apprenticeship with experienced locksmiths. However, there are several experienced locksmiths that do not wish to work with trainees. As a trainee, you may either go out in the field with an experienced locksmith or perform tasks in the office.
Time Needed To Become a Locksmith
In order to become a locksmith, it may take several months to complete the training course. However, there are some training programs that last for around 2 months. At the same time, there are some training programs that last for even 4 months or more. On the other hand, on-the-job training will take additional time in order to complete. If you work as a trainee, then it can last for around 2 to 3 years.
Earning Potential of a Locksmith
On an average, the annual pay of a locksmith in the US is around $50,000 in the year 2018 according to Locksmith Vancouver. However, as a locksmith trainee, you will have to start off at a minimum wage. As the productivity of a trainee increases, the salary also goes up.
About Christian Reynolds
Christian is the chief reporter, editor, and webmaster at Cleveland Leader. An aspiring news anchor, his hobbies outside of investigative reporting are golf, martinis, and adventure travel. If you have a scoop on any developing story, please contact him on this page.
