Electrician Programs in Thornton, Colorado
Becoming an Electrician in Thornton, Colorado
Why Become an Electrician in Thornton
Thornton, Colorado, located just north of Denver, offers a vibrant community with a growing demand for skilled tradespeople like electricians. Known for its beautiful parks and family-friendly neighborhoods, Thornton is an excellent place to start your career. The average salary for electricians in Colorado is around $56,900 per year, with a projected job growth rate of 8% from 2020 to 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Electrician Training Programs in Thornton, Colorado
If you’re looking to become an electrician in Thornton, several local schools and organizations offer excellent training programs:
- Front Range Community College (FRCC)
- Location: Westminster Campus, approximately 10 miles from Thornton
- Program: Electrical Apprenticeship Program
- Description: FRCC offers a comprehensive apprenticeship program that combines classroom instruction with on-the-job training. The program is designed to meet the requirements for becoming a journeyman electrician.
- Independent Electrical Contractors Rocky Mountain (IECRM)
- Location: Northglenn, CO, neighboring Thornton
- Program: Apprenticeship Training Program
- Description: IECRM provides a four-year apprenticeship program that includes hands-on training and classroom education. The program is recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor and the Colorado State Electrical Board.
- Emily Griffith Technical College
- Location: Denver, CO, approximately 15 miles from Thornton
- Program: Electrical Program
- Description: Emily Griffith offers an electrical program that prepares students for entry-level positions and apprenticeships. The curriculum covers essential skills and knowledge needed for a successful career in the electrical field.
Typical Program Curriculum
Electrician training programs typically include a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Courses may cover topics such as:
- Electrical theory and safety
- National Electrical Code (NEC)
- Residential and commercial wiring
- Blueprint reading
- Motor controls
- Renewable energy systems
Programs usually last between 4 to 5 years, depending on whether you are pursuing an apprenticeship or a vocational training program. Specializations may include residential, commercial, or industrial electrical work.
Electrician Employment Opportunities in Thornton
Thornton and the surrounding areas have several major electrical contractors and companies that offer employment opportunities for electricians:
- Sturgeon Electric Company, Inc.
- Location: Henderson, CO, approximately 5 miles from Thornton
- Website: Sturgeon Electric Careers
- Description: Sturgeon Electric is a leading electrical contractor in the region, offering a range of services from electrical construction to maintenance.
- Weifield Group Contracting
- Location: Denver, CO, approximately 15 miles from Thornton
- Website: Weifield Group Careers
- Description: Weifield Group is known for its innovative electrical solutions and offers various career opportunities for electricians at different levels.
- Encore Electric, Inc.
- Location: Lakewood, CO, approximately 20 miles from Thornton
- Website: Encore Electric Careers
- Description: Encore Electric provides comprehensive electrical contracting services and is committed to workforce development and training.
Electrician Licensing Requirements in Colorado
To become an electrician in Thornton, CO, you’ll need to meet the requirements at both the state and local levels. Here’s a breakdown of the necessary certifications, licenses, and requirements:
State Requirements
- Licensure: The State of Colorado requires electricians to be licensed through the Colorado State Electrical Board.
- Journeyman Electrician License: To become a journeyman electrician, you’ll need to:
- Complete an approved apprenticeship program or have at least 8,000 hours of electrical work experience.
- Pass the journeyman electrician exam administered by the International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI) or the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
- Apply for the license through the Colorado State Electrical Board.
- Master Electrician License: To become a master electrician, you’ll need to:
- Hold a journeyman electrician license for at least 2 years.
- Complete an additional 2,000 hours of electrical work experience.
- Pass the master electrician exam administered by the IAEI or NFPA.
- Apply for the license through the Colorado State Electrical Board.
Local Requirements
- City of Thornton: The City of Thornton requires electricians to register with the city and obtain a City of Thornton Electrical License.
- Adams County: Adams County, where Thornton is located, does not have additional licensing requirements for electricians.
Certifications
- National Certification: While not required, obtaining a national certification, such as the Certified Electrician (CE) or Certified Master Electrician (CME) certification, can demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the profession.
- OSHA Certification: Electricians may also want to consider obtaining OSHA certification, which demonstrates knowledge of workplace safety and health regulations.
Licensure Reciprocity
Colorado has reciprocity agreements with several states, allowing electricians licensed in those states to obtain a Colorado license without retaking the exam. For more information, visit the Colorado State Electrical Board.
Get Started Today
Becoming an electrician in Thornton, Colorado, is a rewarding career choice with excellent growth prospects. Whether you choose an apprenticeship or a vocational training program, the journey to becoming a licensed electrician is well worth the effort. Contact a school or apprenticeship program today to take the first step towards your new career. Take action now and start your journey to becoming a skilled electrician in Thornton, Colorado!