Electrician Programs in Chico, California

Becoming an Electrician in Chico, California

Why Become an Electrician in Chico

Chico, California, located in the heart of Butte County, is a vibrant city known for its beautiful parks, including Bidwell Park, and its thriving downtown area. With a growing population and a strong demand for skilled tradespeople, Chico is an excellent place to start a career as an electrician. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for electricians in California is competitive, and the job growth rate is projected to be faster than average, making it a promising career choice.

Electrician Training Programs in Chico, California

If you’re looking to become an electrician in Chico, several local programs can help you get started:

1. Butte College
   • Location: Oroville, CA (approximately 20 miles from Chico)
   • Program: Electrical Apprenticeship Program
   • Description: Butte College offers a comprehensive apprenticeship program that combines classroom instruction with hands-on training. The program prepares students for various certifications and licensure exams.
   • Website: Butte College Electrical Apprenticeship
2. Northern California Electrical Training Center
   • Location: Sacramento, CA (approximately 90 miles from Chico)
   • Program: Electrical Apprenticeship Program
   • Description: This center offers a robust apprenticeship program that includes extensive hands-on training and classroom instruction. The program is designed to prepare students for a career as a journeyman electrician.
   • Website: Northern California Electrical Training Center
3. California State University, Chico
   • Location: Chico, CA
   • Program: Construction Management with Electrical Specialization
   • Description: While not exclusively an electrician program, CSU Chico offers a Construction Management degree with an electrical specialization, providing a strong foundation in electrical systems and project management.
   • Website: CSU Chico Construction Management

Typical Program Curriculum

Electrician programs typically include a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Courses may cover topics such as:

• Electrical theory and safety
• Blueprint reading
• Residential and commercial wiring
• Conduit bending
• Motor controls
• National Electrical Code (NEC) standards

Programs usually last between 4 to 5 years, depending on whether you are pursuing an apprenticeship or a degree. Specializations may include residential, commercial, or industrial electrical work.

Electrician Employment Opportunities in Chico

Several major electrical contractors and companies in Chico offer employment opportunities for electricians:

1. Holt of California
   • Location: Chico, CA
   • Description: Holt of California is a leading provider of heavy equipment and electrical services. They offer a range of employment opportunities for electricians.
   • Website: Holt of California Careers
2. Collins Electrical Company, Inc.
   • Location: Chico, CA
   • Description: Collins Electrical is a full-service electrical contractor providing services across Northern California. They frequently hire electricians for various projects.
   • Website: Collins Electrical Careers
3. Interstate Electrical Contractors, Inc.
   • Location: Chico, CA
   • Description: Interstate Electrical Contractors offers comprehensive electrical services and has a strong presence in the Chico area.
   • Website: Interstate Electrical Contractors Careers

Electrician Licensing Requirements in California

To become a licensed electrician in Chico, CA, you’ll need to meet the requirements set by the state of California, as well as any additional requirements at the county or city level.

State Requirements

Licensure

• The California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) requires electricians to be licensed to work in the state.
• To become a licensed electrician, you’ll need to:
  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Have a high school diploma or equivalent
  • Complete an approved apprenticeship program or have equivalent work experience
  • Pass the CSLB’s electrician examination

Certifications

• The California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) requires electricians to be certified to work on certain types of projects.
• The DIR offers certifications in:
  • General Electrician
  • Residential Electrician
  • Fire/Life Safety Technician
  • Voice Data Video Technician

Training and Education

• The California Apprenticeship Coordinators Association (CACA) offers apprenticeship programs in electrical work.
• The International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI) offers training and certification programs for electricians.

County Requirements

• Butte County, where Chico is located, does not have any additional licensing or certification requirements for electricians.

City Requirements

• The City of Chico requires electricians to:
  • Obtain a business license from the City of Chico
  • Meet the city’s building and safety codes

Federal Requirements

• The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires electricians to follow federal safety guidelines.
• The National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) offers training and certification programs for electricians.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as an electrician in Chico, California, is a rewarding and promising journey. With the right training and certification, you can join a growing field with excellent job prospects. Contact a local school or apprenticeship program today to take the first step towards your new career. The future is bright for skilled electricians in Chico—start your journey now!