Electrician Programs in Springfield, Illinois
Becoming an Electrician in Springfield, Illinois
Why Become an Electrician in Springfield
Springfield, the capital city of Illinois, is a vibrant community known for its rich history and landmarks such as the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. With a growing demand for skilled tradespeople, becoming an electrician in Springfield offers a stable and rewarding career. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for electricians was $60,040 in 2021, with a projected job growth of 9% from 2020 to 2030. This makes Springfield an excellent place to start your journey as an electrician.
Electrician Training Programs in Springfield, Illinois
If you’re looking to become an electrician in Springfield, there are several local programs and schools to consider:
- Lincoln Land Community College (LLCC)
- Program: Electrical Distribution Lineman Program
- Description: Located in the heart of Springfield, LLCC offers a comprehensive program that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training. Students learn about electrical theory, safety practices, and the installation and maintenance of electrical systems.
- Website: LLCC Electrical Distribution Lineman Program
- Springfield Electrical Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC)
- Program: Electrical Apprenticeship Program
- Description: This program combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Apprentices work under the supervision of experienced electricians and attend classes to learn about electrical theory, code, and practical applications.
- Website: Springfield JATC
- Capital Area Career Center (CACC)
- Program: Electrical Construction Program
- Description: CACC offers high school students and adults the opportunity to gain foundational skills in electrical construction. The program covers basic electrical theory, residential wiring, and safety practices.
- Website: CACC Electrical Construction Program
Typical Program Curriculum
Electrician programs typically include a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Courses often cover:
- Electrical Theory: Understanding the principles of electricity, including voltage, current, and resistance.
- National Electrical Code (NEC): Learning the standards for safe electrical installation and inspection.
- Blueprint Reading: Interpreting electrical blueprints and diagrams.
- Safety Practices: Emphasizing the importance of safety on the job site.
- Residential and Commercial Wiring: Installing and maintaining electrical systems in homes and businesses.
Programs usually last between 4 to 5 years, depending on whether you are pursuing an apprenticeship or a degree.
Electrician Employment Opportunities in Springfield
Springfield is home to several major electrical contractors and companies that offer employment opportunities for electricians:
- Bodine Electric of Springfield
- Description: A leading electrical contractor in the region, Bodine Electric provides a range of services including commercial, industrial, and residential electrical work.
- Website: Bodine Electric Employment Opportunities
- EGS Electrical Group
- Description: Specializing in electrical construction and maintenance, EGS Electrical Group is known for its high-quality work and commitment to safety.
- Website: EGS Electrical Group Careers
- Sangamon Electric Co.
- Description: This company offers a variety of electrical services, including new installations, repairs, and maintenance for both residential and commercial clients.
- Website: Sangamon Electric Co. Careers
Electrician Licensing Requirements in Illinois
To become a licensed electrician in Springfield, IL, you’ll need to meet the requirements set by the state of Illinois, as well as any local regulations. Here’s a breakdown of the necessary certifications, licenses, and requirements:
State Requirements
- Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) Electrician License: Required for all electricians in Illinois.
- Must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Complete an approved apprenticeship program or have at least 8,000 hours of work experience under the supervision of a licensed electrician.
- Pass the IDPH electrician licensing exam.
- IDPH Electrician License Application
- Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL) Electrical Contractor License: Required for electrical contractors.
- Must have a valid IDPH electrician license.
- Provide proof of liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance.
- Pass a background check.
- IDOL Electrical Contractor License Application
Local Requirements
- City of Springfield Electrical Permit: Required for electrical work within the city limits.
- Must have a valid IDPH electrician license.
- Submit plans and specifications for electrical work to the City of Springfield Building and Zoning Department.
- City of Springfield Electrical Permit Application
- Sangamon County Electrical Permit: Required for electrical work in unincorporated areas of Sangamon County.
- Must have a valid IDPH electrician license.
- Submit plans and specifications for electrical work to the Sangamon County Building and Zoning Department.
- Sangamon County Electrical Permit Application
Certifications
- National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) Certification: Optional, but recommended for electricians.
- Demonstrates expertise in electrical installation, maintenance, and repair.
- NECA Certification Program
- International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI) Certification: Optional, but recommended for electrical inspectors.
- Demonstrates expertise in electrical code enforcement and inspection.
- IAEI Certification Program
Insurance and Bonding
- Liability Insurance: Required for electrical contractors.
- Provides protection against claims of property damage or bodily injury.
- Insurance Requirements for Electrical Contractors
- Bonding: Required for electrical contractors.
- Provides protection against claims of non-payment or incomplete work.
- Bonding Requirements for Electrical Contractors
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as an electrician in Springfield, Illinois, is a promising and fulfilling choice. With a variety of local training programs and a strong job market, you have all the resources you need to succeed. Contact a school or apprenticeship program today to take the first step towards your new career. The future is bright for electricians in Springfield—start your journey now!