Electrician Programs in Chicago, Illinois

Becoming an Electrician in Chicago, Illinois

Why Become an Electrician in Chicago

Chicago, Illinois, known as the “Windy City,” is a vibrant metropolis with a rich history and a diverse economy. Home to iconic landmarks such as the Willis Tower and Millennium Park, Chicago offers a dynamic environment for aspiring electricians. The city’s growing infrastructure and construction projects create a high demand for skilled electricians. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for electricians in Illinois is approximately $61,550, with a projected job growth rate of 8% from 2020 to 2030.

Electrician Training Programs in Chicago, Illinois

If you’re looking to become an electrician in Chicago, several local schools and organizations offer excellent training programs:

1. City Colleges of Chicago – Electrical Construction Technology Program
   • Located in the Near West Side neighborhood, this program provides comprehensive training in electrical theory, code, and hands-on skills. Students can earn an Associate in Applied Science degree.
   • City Colleges of Chicago Electrical Program
2. IBEW Local 134 – Electrical Joint Apprenticeship and Training Trust (EJATT)
   • Situated in the Bronzeville neighborhood, EJATT offers a five-year apprenticeship program combining classroom instruction and on-the-job training. Graduates become journeyman electricians.
   • IBEW Local 134 EJATT Program
3. Coyne College – Electrical Construction and Planning Program
   • Located in the Loop neighborhood, Coyne College offers a diploma program focusing on electrical construction and planning. The curriculum includes both theoretical and practical training.
   • Coyne College Electrical Program

Typical Program Curriculum

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

• Electrical theory and principles
• National Electrical Code (NEC)
• Blueprint reading
• Residential, commercial, and industrial wiring
• Safety practices and OSHA standards
• Specialized areas such as renewable energy systems

Programs generally last from six months to five years, depending on whether you pursue a diploma, certificate, or apprenticeship. Specializations may include residential wiring, commercial installations, or industrial electrical systems.

Electrician Employment Opportunities in Chicago

Chicago is home to numerous electrical contractors and companies offering employment opportunities for electricians:

1. Gibson Electric & Technology Solutions
   • Located in the West Loop neighborhood, Gibson Electric provides electrical contracting services for commercial and industrial projects. They offer career opportunities for electricians at various levels.
   • Gibson Electric Careers
2. Meade Electric
   • Based in the Garfield Ridge neighborhood, Meade Electric specializes in electrical construction, maintenance, and emergency services. They frequently hire apprentices, journeymen, and master electricians.
   • Meade Electric Careers
3. Kelso-Burnett Co.
   • Located in the Ravenswood neighborhood, Kelso-Burnett Co. is a full-service electrical contractor offering a range of services from design to installation. They provide career opportunities for electricians.
   • Kelso-Burnett Careers

Electrician Licensing Requirements in Illinois

To become an electrician in Chicago, IL, you’ll need to meet the requirements at the city, state, and federal levels:

City of Chicago Requirements

• Electrician License: The City of Chicago requires electricians to be licensed through the Department of Buildings. To qualify, you’ll need:
  • 4 years of experience as an apprentice electrician or 2 years as a journeyman electrician
  • Pass the City of Chicago’s electrician licensing exam
  • Pay the required licensing fee ($150-$300)
  • City of Chicago Electrician License Application

State of Illinois Requirements

• Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) Certification: Electricians in Illinois need to be certified by the IDPH. To qualify, you’ll need:
  • Complete an approved apprenticeship program or have 4 years of experience as an electrician
  • Pass the IDPH certification exam
  • Pay the required certification fee ($50-$100)
  • Illinois Department of Public Health Electrician Certification

Federal Requirements

• OSHA Certification: While not mandatory, OSHA certification is highly recommended for electricians. You can obtain OSHA certification through the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
  • Complete an OSHA-approved training program
  • Pass the OSHA certification exam
  • OSHA Certification

Licensure Reciprocity

Illinois does not have formal licensure reciprocity agreements with other states. Electricians licensed in other states must meet Illinois’ certification and licensing requirements to work in the state.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as an electrician in Chicago, Illinois, can be a rewarding and lucrative journey. With the city’s robust infrastructure and continuous development, the demand for skilled electricians remains high. Take the first step by contacting a local school or apprenticeship program today. Your future as a professional electrician awaits!