Electrician Programs in Waukegan, Illinois
Becoming an Electrician in Waukegan, Illinois
Why Become an Electrician in Waukegan
Waukegan, Illinois, located on the shores of Lake Michigan, is a vibrant city known for its rich history and diverse community. With a growing demand for skilled tradespeople, becoming an electrician in Waukegan offers a promising career path. The average salary for electricians in Illinois is approximately $60,000 per year, with a projected job growth of 8% from 2020 to 2030. For more detailed job outlook information, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Electrician Training Programs in Waukegan, Illinois
If you’re considering a career as an electrician in Waukegan, several local programs can help you get started:
- College of Lake County
- Location: Grayslake, IL (approximately 10 miles from Waukegan)
- Program: The Electrical Engineering Technology program offers comprehensive training in electrical systems, circuits, and safety practices.
- Website: College of Lake County – Electrical Engineering Technology
- Gateway Technical College
- Location: Kenosha, WI (approximately 15 miles from Waukegan)
- Program: The Electrical Apprenticeship program provides hands-on training and classroom instruction to prepare students for a career as an electrician.
- Website: Gateway Technical College – Electrical Apprenticeship
- Triton College
- Location: River Grove, IL (approximately 35 miles from Waukegan)
- Program: The Electrical Technology program covers essential skills and knowledge needed for entry-level electrician positions.
- Website: Triton College – Electrical Technology
Typical Program Curriculum
Electrician programs typically include a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Courses often cover topics such as:
- Electrical theory and principles
- National Electrical Code (NEC)
- Residential and commercial wiring
- Blueprint reading
- Safety practices
- Motor controls and automation
Programs usually last between 1 to 4 years, depending on whether you are pursuing a certificate, diploma, or associate degree. Some programs offer specializations in areas like renewable energy or industrial electrical systems.
Electrician Employment Opportunities in Waukegan
Several major electrical contractors and companies in Waukegan offer employment opportunities for electricians:
- Lake County Electrical Contractors Association
- Location: Gurnee, IL (approximately 5 miles from Waukegan)
- Website: Lake County Electrical Contractors Association
- Kellenberger Electric
- Location: Waukegan, IL
- Website: Kellenberger Electric
- North Shore Electric
- Location: Waukegan, IL
- Website: North Shore Electric
Electrician Licensing Requirements in Illinois
To become an electrician in Waukegan, IL, you’ll need to meet both state and local requirements:
State Requirements
- Illinois Department of Labor: Electricians must be licensed by the state. More information can be found on the Illinois Department of Labor – Electrician Licensing page.
- Illinois Electrician License:
- Apprentice Electrician License: Requires registration with the Illinois Department of Labor and completion of an approved apprenticeship program.
- Journeyman Electrician License: Requires 8,000 hours of work experience as an apprentice and passing a written exam.
- Master Electrician License: Requires 2,000 hours of work experience as a journeyman and passing a written exam.
Local Requirements
- City of Waukegan: Electricians must obtain a city license. More details can be found on the City of Waukegan – Electrician License page.
- Lake County: Electricians must obtain a county license. Visit the Lake County – Electrician License page for more information.
Certifications
- National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA): Offers certifications such as the Certified Electrical Contractor (CEC) and Certified Electrical Administrator (CEA). More information is available on the NECA – Certifications page.
- International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI): Offers certifications for electrical inspectors, including the Certified Electrical Inspector (CEI) and Certified Electrical Safety Worker (CESW). Visit the IAEI – Certifications page for more details.
Education and Training
- Apprenticeship Programs: Complete an approved apprenticeship program registered with the Illinois Department of Labor. More information can be found on the Illinois Department of Labor – Apprenticeship Programs page.
- Vocational Training: Complete a vocational training program in electrical technology from an accredited institution. Visit the Illinois Community College Board – Vocational Training page for more information.
Insurance and Bonding
- Liability Insurance: Electricians may need to carry liability insurance. More information can be found on the Insurance Information Institute – Liability Insurance page.
- Bonding: Electricians may need to be bonded. Visit the National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies – Bonding page for more details.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as an electrician in Waukegan, Illinois, is a rewarding journey with numerous opportunities for growth and advancement. Contact a local school or apprenticeship program today to take the first step towards your new career. With the right training and dedication, you can become a skilled electrician and contribute to the thriving community of Waukegan.