What’s an Electrical Training Program Like?

What an Electrical Training Program Entails

• Basic trade Math: The program starts with foundational math skills tailored to the electrical trade, ensuring students can accurately measure, calculate, and solve problems relevant to electrical work.
• Fundamentals of electric and power distribution: Students learn the principles of electrical distribution systems to understand how electricity is generated, transmitted, and distributed to homes, businesses, and industries.
• Electrical wiring: This part of the training covers the specific wiring techniques and requirements for different settings, including commercial buildings, industrial facilities, and residential homes.
• National electrical code requirements: Understanding and adhering to the National Electrical Code (NEC) is paramount for safety and compliance. Students become well-versed in NEC regulations, which dictate electrical installation standards.
• Safety and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards: Trainees learn about electrical hazards, safe work practices, and OSHA standards. This area of training ensures they can work safely in potentially risky environments.
• Customer Communications: Effective communication is crucial in the electrical field. Trainees acquire skills to interact with clients, understand their needs, and provide clear explanations of electrical issues and solutions.
• Other motor control fundamentals: This component explores motor control systems, including how to install, troubleshoot, and maintain motors used in various applications.

How Long Does It Take to Become an Electrician?

The duration of an electrical training program varies depending on the specific type of program and the level of certification being pursued. Certification-based programs offered by electrician trade schools are usually completed in 12 months. If you choose to attend an associate degree program, the degree will take about 18-24 months to complete. After completing your training, you’ll need to seek out an apprenticeship and complete 144 hours of technical training and at least 2,000 hours of on-the-job training.