Electrician Programs in Melbourne, Florida
Becoming an Electrician in Melbourne, Florida
Why Become an Electrician in Melbourne
Melbourne, Florida, located on the Space Coast, is a vibrant city known for its beautiful beaches, thriving tech industry, and proximity to the Kennedy Space Center. With a growing population and a strong demand for skilled tradespeople, becoming an electrician in Melbourne offers a promising career path. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for electricians in Florida is competitive, and the job growth for electricians is projected to be strong in the coming years.
Electrician Training Programs in Melbourne, Florida
If you’re looking to become an electrician in Melbourne, Florida, several local institutions offer excellent training programs:
- Eastern Florida State College
- Location: Melbourne Campus
- Program: Electrical Apprenticeship Program
- Description: Eastern Florida State College offers a comprehensive apprenticeship program that combines classroom instruction with hands-on training. The program covers residential, commercial, and industrial electrical work.
- Link: Eastern Florida State College Electrical Apprenticeship
- Brevard Electrical Apprenticeship Program (BEAP)
- Location: Cocoa, FL (approximately 15 miles from Melbourne)
- Program: Electrical Apprenticeship
- Description: BEAP provides a four-year apprenticeship program that includes on-the-job training and classroom instruction. The program is designed to prepare students for a career as a journeyman electrician.
- Link: Brevard Electrical Apprenticeship Program
- Florida Electrical Apprenticeship & Training (FEAT)
- Location: Orlando, FL (approximately 70 miles from Melbourne)
- Program: Electrical Apprenticeship
- Description: FEAT offers a state-approved apprenticeship program that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on experience. The program covers various aspects of electrical work, including residential, commercial, and industrial applications.
- Link: Florida Electrical Apprenticeship & Training
Typical Program Curriculum
Electrician training programs typically include a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Students can expect to cover topics such as:
- Electrical theory and principles
- National Electrical Code (NEC)
- Residential, commercial, and industrial wiring
- Blueprint reading and electrical schematics
- Safety practices and OSHA regulations
- Motor controls and programmable logic controllers (PLCs)
Programs usually take about four years to complete, with students earning both classroom hours and on-the-job training hours. Some programs may offer specializations in areas like renewable energy or advanced industrial systems.
Electrician Employment Opportunities in Melbourne
Several major electrical contractors and companies in Melbourne offer employment opportunities for electricians:
- Brevard Electric Services, Inc.
- Location: Melbourne, FL
- Description: Brevard Electric Services provides a wide range of electrical services, including residential, commercial, and industrial projects. They offer career opportunities for apprentices, journeymen, and master electricians.
- Link: Brevard Electric Services Careers
- Gaylor Electric
- Location: Melbourne, FL
- Description: Gaylor Electric is a national electrical contractor with a strong presence in Melbourne. They offer comprehensive electrical services and have a robust apprenticeship program.
- Link: Gaylor Electric Careers
- Moss Electric
- Location: Melbourne, FL
- Description: Moss Electric specializes in commercial and industrial electrical services. They are known for their commitment to safety and quality, offering various career opportunities for electricians.
- Link: Moss Electric Careers
Electrician Licensing Requirements in Florida
To become a licensed electrician in Melbourne, FL, you’ll need to meet the requirements set by the state of Florida, Brevard County, and the city of Melbourne. Here’s a breakdown of the necessary certifications, licenses, and requirements:
State of Florida Requirements
– Licensure: Electricians in Florida must be licensed by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).
– Certification: Electricians must hold a certification in their specialty area, such as residential, commercial, or industrial electrical work. The DBPR offers certifications in various electrical specialties.
– Education: Electricians must complete an approved apprenticeship program or have at least 8,000 hours of work experience in the electrical trade.
– Examination: Electricians must pass a written examination administered by the DBPR.
Brevard County Requirements
– Business Tax Receipt: Electricians must obtain a Business Tax Receipt from the Brevard County Tax Collector’s Office.
– Local Licenses: Some cities within Brevard County, such as Melbourne, may require additional licenses or permits. Check with the City of Melbourne’s Building Department for specific requirements.
City of Melbourne Requirements
– Electrical Contractor License: Electricians must obtain an Electrical Contractor License from the City of Melbourne’s Building Department.
– Business Tax Receipt: Electricians must obtain a Business Tax Receipt from the City of Melbourne’s Finance Department.
Federal Requirements
– OSHA Certification: Electricians may need to comply with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations and obtain certification in certain areas, such as fall protection or scaffolding.
Licensure Reciprocity
Florida has reciprocity agreements with several states, allowing licensed electricians from those states to obtain a Florida license without retaking the examination. For more information on reciprocity agreements and the application process, visit the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).
Get Started Today
Becoming an electrician in Melbourne, Florida, is a rewarding career choice with numerous opportunities for growth and advancement. Take the first step towards your new career by contacting a local school or apprenticeship program today. With the right training and dedication, you can become a skilled electrician and enjoy a stable and fulfilling career. Don’t wait—start your journey to becoming an electrician now!