Electrician Programs in Champaign, Illinois

Becoming an Electrician in Champaign, Illinois

Why Become an Electrician in Champaign

Champaign, Illinois, known for its vibrant community and the prestigious University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, offers a promising environment for aspiring electricians. With a blend of urban and suburban neighborhoods, Champaign provides diverse opportunities for electrical work in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for electricians in Illinois is competitive, and the job growth is projected to be steady over the next decade.

Electrician Training Programs in Champaign, Illinois

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

Parkland College – Located in the heart of Champaign, Parkland College offers an Electrical Power and Distribution program. This program provides hands-on training and coursework in electrical theory, wiring, and safety. Parkland College Electrical Program
I.B.E.W. Local 601 – The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 601 offers a comprehensive apprenticeship program. This program combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction to prepare you for a career as a journeyman electrician. I.B.E.W. Local 601 Apprenticeship Program
Champaign-Urbana Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC) – The JATC provides a robust apprenticeship program that includes both theoretical and practical training. This program is designed to equip you with the skills needed to succeed as an electrician. Champaign-Urbana JATC

Typical Program Curriculum

Electrician programs typically cover a range of courses and hands-on training, including:

Electrical Theory: Understanding the principles of electricity and how it works.
Wiring and Installation: Learning how to install electrical systems in various settings.
Safety Practices: Emphasizing the importance of safety on the job.
Blueprint Reading: Interpreting electrical blueprints and diagrams.
National Electrical Code (NEC): Familiarizing yourself with the NEC and local regulations.

Programs usually last between 4-5 years, combining classroom instruction with on-the-job training. Specializations may include residential, commercial, or industrial electrical work.

Electrician Employment Opportunities in Champaign

Champaign boasts several major electrical contractors and companies that offer employment opportunities for electricians:

Bodine Electric of Champaign – Located in the Midtown neighborhood, Bodine Electric provides a wide range of electrical services, including residential, commercial, and industrial projects. Bodine Electric Employment Opportunities
ABC Heating & Air Conditioning – Situated in the Campustown area, ABC Heating & Air Conditioning offers electrical services as part of their HVAC solutions. ABC Heating & Air Conditioning Careers
Illini Electric – Based in the Downtown Champaign area, Illini Electric specializes in electrical contracting services for both residential and commercial clients. Illini Electric Employment

Electrician Licensing Requirements in Illinois

To become an electrician in Champaign, IL, you’ll need to meet the requirements at both the state and local levels:

State Requirements

Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL)

Electrician License: Required to work as an electrician in Illinois. IDOL Electrician License
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Must have completed an approved apprenticeship program or have equivalent experience
- Pass a written exam administered by the IDOL
Continuing Education: Electricians must complete 12 hours of continuing education every 3 years to maintain their license. IDOL Continuing Education

Local Requirements

City of Champaign

Electrical Permit: Required for electrical work in the City of Champaign. City of Champaign Electrical Permit
- Must be obtained by a licensed electrician or a registered electrical contractor
Electrical Inspector: The City of Champaign has its own electrical inspector who enforces the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local ordinances. City of Champaign Electrical Inspector

Champaign County

No specific requirements: Champaign County does not have specific requirements for electricians beyond the state and local requirements.

Licensure Reciprocity

Illinois does not have specific licensure reciprocity agreements with other states. Electricians licensed in other states must meet Illinois’s requirements to obtain a license.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as an electrician in Champaign, Illinois, offers a rewarding path with numerous opportunities for growth and development. Contact a local school or apprenticeship program today to begin your journey. Take the first step towards a fulfilling career as an electrician and make a difference in your community.