If you are looking for a trade that allows you to work with your hands in order to keep people safe, becoming a locksmith could be perfect for you. This is a rewarding and challenging trade and locksmiths are currently in demand so you can be assured of regular work.  If you are interested in becoming a locksmith, here’s what you need to know.

What is a Locksmith?

A locksmith is a highly trained security professional that is responsible for giving as much security to their clients as possible.  This can be through installing new locks on doors and windows, installing electronic locks, installing alarm systems, and installing closed circuit camera systems, as well as devising protection plans for homes and businesses.  A locksmith is also responsible for helping people to gain access to their homes or businesses in times of emergency (when they are locked out, for example), or to restore security after a premises has been broken into etc.

To be a locksmith, you will need to be good with tools, computer technology, mathematics, and similar things.  You will also need to be willing to undergo regular security and police checks in order to obtain and keep a security license.  A locksmith can work for a security company or as part of a locksmith’s business.  Alternatively, they can choose to open their own business once they are fully qualified.

Training to Be a Locksmith

There are several courses available that allow you to study locksmithing and these courses can cover just the basics or they can be very advanced and lead to a career in this trade.  Generally, the courses are either short courses or certificates and they can be done full or part time on campus, or completed at your own time and in your own pace through distance or online learning.  The latter two options (distance and online learning) are great if you require flexibility in your study.

If you have done a shorter course and have decided that you would like to learn more and to make a career out of locksmithing, the next step in becoming fully qualified is to do an apprenticeship. These generally run for 3 to 4 years in duration and you will complete the apprenticeship underneath an employer. An employer will provide all the on the job training that you need and you will also need to go to a registered training organisation such as TAFE to learn the theoretical components necessary for this trade.  The good thing about an apprenticeship is that you are being paid to learn

Questions to Consider

Whether you simply want to learn the basics about locksmithing or turn it into a career, there are some questions that you will need to ask to ensure that the course is right for you, and will take you where you want to go. These include:

• Do you understand what is involved with being a locksmith (possibility of emergency callouts etc)?
• Is the training recognised and accredited?
• Is a police check required and will these need to be done regularly?
• What is the cost of the course and are materials included?
• Is the course provided by a reputable organisation/employer?
• What can I expect my income to be while I’m learning, and what will be once I am fully qualified?
• Are any incentives provided by the government to help me while I learn?