Electrician Programs in Birmingham, Alabama

Becoming an Electrician in Birmingham, Alabama

Why Become an Electrician in Birmingham

Birmingham, Alabama, known as the “Magic City,” is a vibrant place with a rich history and a growing economy. The city offers numerous opportunities for aspiring electricians, with a strong demand for skilled tradespeople. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for electricians is promising, with a projected job growth of 8% from 2020 to 2030. The average salary for electricians in Birmingham is competitive, making it an attractive career choice.

Electrician Training Programs in Birmingham, Alabama

If you’re looking to become an electrician in Birmingham, several local schools and organizations offer excellent training programs:

1. Jefferson State Community College
   Located in the eastern part of Birmingham, Jefferson State Community College offers an Electrical Technology program that provides comprehensive training for aspiring electricians. The program covers both theoretical and practical aspects of electrical work.
   Jefferson State Community College Electrical Technology Program

2. Lawson State Community College
   Situated in the southwestern part of Birmingham, Lawson State Community College offers an Electrical Technology program designed to prepare students for a career as an electrician. The program includes hands-on training and coursework in electrical theory, wiring, and safety.
   Lawson State Community College Electrical Technology Program

3. Birmingham Electrical JATC
   Located in the heart of Birmingham, the Birmingham Electrical Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC) offers a comprehensive apprenticeship program. This program combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction, providing a well-rounded education for aspiring electricians.
   Birmingham Electrical JATC

Typical Program Curriculum

Electrician training programs in Birmingham typically include a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Courses often cover:

• Electrical theory and principles
• National Electrical Code (NEC)
• Residential and commercial wiring
• Safety practices and procedures
• Blueprint reading and electrical schematics
• Motor controls and industrial electrical systems

Programs usually take about 4-5 years to complete, especially if you are pursuing an apprenticeship. Some programs may offer specializations in areas such as renewable energy or industrial electrical systems.

Electrician Employment Opportunities in Birmingham

Birmingham is home to several major electrical contractors and companies that offer employment opportunities for electricians. Here are a few notable ones:

1. Mister Sparky Birmingham
   Located in the Avondale neighborhood, Mister Sparky Birmingham is a well-known electrical service company that offers a range of services from repairs to installations. They frequently have job openings for electricians.
   Mister Sparky Birmingham Careers

2. White Electrical
   Based in the Five Points South neighborhood, White Electrical is a large electrical contractor that provides services to industrial, commercial, and residential clients. They offer various employment opportunities for electricians.
   White Electrical Careers

3. Grove Electric Company
   Located in the Southside neighborhood, Grove Electric Company specializes in commercial and industrial electrical services. They are always on the lookout for skilled electricians to join their team.
   Grove Electric Company Careers

Electrician Licensing Requirements in Alabama

To become a licensed electrician in Birmingham, AL, you’ll need to meet the requirements set by the state of Alabama, Jefferson County, and the city of Birmingham. Here’s a breakdown of the necessary certifications, licenses, and requirements:

State Requirements

• Alabama Electrical Contractors License: Required for electrical contractors and journeyman electricians. Issued by the Alabama Electrical Contractors Board. Requires passing the NECA or IAEI exam. Application fee: $150; License fee: $200 (initial), $150 (renewal).
• Alabama Journeyman Electrician License: Required for journeyman electricians. Issued by the AECB. Requires 8,000 hours of work experience as an apprentice electrician and passing the NECA or IAEI exam. Application fee: $100; License fee: $150 (initial), $100 (renewal).

County Requirements

• Jefferson County Business License: Required for all businesses operating in Jefferson County, including electrical contractors. Issued by the Jefferson County License Commission. Application fee: $25; License fee: varies based on business type and gross receipts.

City Requirements

• City of Birmingham Business License: Required for all businesses operating in the city of Birmingham, including electrical contractors. Issued by the City of Birmingham Revenue Department. Application fee: $25; License fee: varies based on business type and gross receipts.
• City of Birmingham Electrical Permit: Required for electrical work performed in the city of Birmingham. Issued by the City of Birmingham Building, Engineering, and Environmental Department. Permit fee: varies based on project type and value.

Certifications

• National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) Certification: Optional, but recommended for electricians. Issued by NECA. Requires passing a certification exam. Certification fee: varies based on certification type.
• International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI) Certification: Optional, but recommended for electricians. Issued by IAEI. Requires passing a certification exam. Certification fee: varies based on certification type.

Insurance Requirements

• Liability Insurance: Required for electrical contractors in Alabama. Minimum coverage: $100,000 per occurrence, $300,000 aggregate.
• Workers’ Compensation Insurance: Required for electrical contractors with employees in Alabama. Coverage requirements vary based on number of employees and payroll.

Other Requirements

• Background Check: Required for electrical contractors and journeyman electricians in Alabama. Conducted by the Alabama State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
• Continuing Education: Required for electrical contractors and journeyman electricians in Alabama. 8 hours of continuing education every 2 years.

Licensure Reciprocity

Alabama has reciprocity agreements with several states, allowing electricians licensed in those states to obtain a license in Alabama without retaking the exam. For more information, consult the Alabama Electrical Contractors Board.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as an electrician in Birmingham, Alabama, is a rewarding and promising journey. With the right training and dedication, you can become a skilled professional in a high-demand field. Contact a local school or apprenticeship program today to take the first step towards your new career. Don’t wait—start your journey to becoming an electrician in Birmingham now!