There are many reasons to pursue a career as an electrician: great program value, the ability to enter into a growing field, being able to ultimately find a job you can take pride in. But the first step toward any career in trades involves training. Factors like location and cost are obviously important when choosing your electrical school, but accreditation and length of training are essential too.
Electrical training is an investment in your future, so spending a little more money or driving a little further to join a credible, reputable program will pay off dividends long-term.
If you’re looking to find a training program in your area, many of our partner schools are able to help you become career-ready in as few as 10 months! Read further to learn more about what a typical electrical training program entails.
How Long are Electrical Training Programs?
The duration of your training will vary by school and your focal area, but most programs can usually be completed in about 12 months.
Our partner schools offer certification-based programs, meaning your core classes would focus almost entirely on electrical education. These programs are built to be expedited and hyper-focused, meaning you can be career-ready in as few as 10 months and potentially start earning faster — the average electrician pay in 2023 was $67,810. (bls.gov).
However, an alternative option is an associate degree program. These programs typically incorporate a blend of both core electrical classes and general education classes, and take roughly 18-24 months to complete.
Both certification and associate programs will prepare students for an electrical career, it really comes down to personal preference.
If you’re seeking a faster, cost-efficient training program with a narrowed focus on electrical education, certification-based training programs will provide just that. If you want a longer, more diverse curriculum beyond electrical classes, associate programs may be right for you.
What is the Classroom Setting Like?
Electrical courses are meant to prepare students by providing a comprehensive understanding of the trade. Through lectures, hands-on training, and eventually real-world trial experience, electrical programs focus on providing a well-rounded education.
Electrical training programs typically take students through electrical fundamentals, theories of wiring systems, troubleshooting and maintenance repair, and a number of other practical requirements that will benefit you once you complete training and join the workforce.
Core Classes in Electrical Training Programs
Your core electrical courses will likely consist of the following specialties:
- Basic Electrical Theory
- Wiring/Lighting
- Conduit Bending
- Load Calculations
- Electrical Control Systems
- Customer Communications
This curriculum is designed to teach students how to install, maintain, and repair multiple systems that electricians will encounter on a daily basis.
Benefits of Electrical Training
While every training program may operate a bit differently, they’re all built to prepare you to join a growing field! In as few as 10 months, you can be career-ready and start putting your education to good use.
Find local electrical training now!
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