Electrician Programs in Colorado Springs, Colorado

Becoming an Electrician in Colorado Springs, Colorado

Why Become an Electrician in Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs, known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant community, is an excellent place to start a career as an electrician. Nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, this city offers a blend of urban amenities and outdoor adventures. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for electricians in Colorado is competitive, and the job market is expected to grow by 8% from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations.

Electrician Training Programs in Colorado Springs, Colorado

If you’re looking to become an electrician in Colorado Springs, there are several local programs to consider:

1. Pikes Peak Community College (PPCC)
   • Location: Centennial Campus, Colorado Springs
   • Program: Electrical Technology
   • Description: PPCC offers a comprehensive Electrical Technology program that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training. The program covers residential, commercial, and industrial electrical systems.
2. Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) Rocky Mountain Chapter
   • Location: Colorado Springs
   • Program: IEC Apprenticeship Program
   • Description: IEC provides a four-year apprenticeship program that combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction. This program is designed to prepare students for the journeyman electrician exam.
3. Colorado Springs Electrical JATC
   • Location: Colorado Springs
   • Program: Apprenticeship Training
   • Description: The Colorado Springs Electrical Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC) offers a robust apprenticeship program that includes extensive hands-on training and classroom education.

Typical Program Curriculum

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

• Electrical theory and safety
• Blueprint reading
• Residential, commercial, and industrial wiring
• National Electrical Code (NEC)
• Motor controls and programmable logic controllers (PLCs)

Programs usually last between 2 to 4 years, depending on whether you’re pursuing a certificate, diploma, or associate degree. Specializations may include residential, commercial, or industrial electrical work.

Electrician Employment Opportunities in Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is home to several major electrical contractors and companies that frequently hire electricians:

1. Bret’s Electric
   • Location: Colorado Springs
   • Website: Bret’s Electric
   • Description: Bret’s Electric is a full-service electrical contractor specializing in commercial and industrial projects. They offer career opportunities for apprentices, journeymen, and master electricians.
2. Berwick Electric Co.
   • Location: Colorado Springs
   • Website: Berwick Electric Co.
   • Description: Berwick Electric Co. has been serving Colorado Springs since 1921, providing electrical services for residential, commercial, and industrial clients. They are known for their commitment to quality and safety.
3. Encore Electric
   • Location: Colorado Springs
   • Website: Encore Electric
   • Description: Encore Electric offers a wide range of electrical services, including design-build, preconstruction, and maintenance. They are dedicated to training and developing their workforce.

Electrician Licensing Requirements in Colorado

To become an electrician in Colorado Springs, CO, you’ll need to meet both state and local requirements:

State Requirements

• Licensure: The State of Colorado requires electricians to be licensed through the Colorado Office of Licensing (OOL).
• Journeyman Electrician License: Requires completion of an approved apprenticeship program or at least 8,000 hours of electrical work experience, passing the journeyman electrician exam administered by the International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI), and applying for the license through the OOL.
• Master Electrician License: Requires holding a journeyman electrician license for at least 2 years, completing an additional 2,000 hours of electrical work experience, passing the master electrician exam administered by the IAEI, and applying for the license through the OOL.

Local Requirements

• City of Colorado Springs: Electricians must be registered with the City of Colorado Springs Building Department.
• El Paso County: While El Paso County does not have specific requirements for electricians, you may need to obtain a business license or permit to operate in the county.

Licensure Reciprocity

Colorado has reciprocity agreements with several states, allowing electricians licensed in those states to obtain a Colorado license more easily. Check with the Colorado Office of Licensing (OOL) for specific details on reciprocity agreements and the application process.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as an electrician in Colorado Springs is a rewarding and promising path. With a variety of training programs and a strong job market, now is the perfect time to take the first step. Contact a local school or apprenticeship program today to begin your journey toward becoming a skilled electrician. The future is bright—get started now!