Not really sure where you live in the country... i.e. union vs non- union but where I am it takes about 7 to 10 years to become a master plumber or electrician. Until then you're a journeyman making much less.
Master electricians have to get at least a bachelor's but most have a masters in electrical engineering on your own time after working all day. This is all city / state dependent but i would get a lay of the land first.
You're also not getting in the union unless you have an in.