Electrician Programs in Fort Wayne, Indiana
Becoming an Electrician in Fort Wayne, Indiana
Why Become an Electrician in Fort Wayne
Fort Wayne, Indiana, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, cultural landmarks, and thriving neighborhoods such as West Central and North Anthony. The city offers a supportive environment for aspiring electricians, with a growing demand for skilled tradespeople. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for electricians is positive, with a projected job growth of 8% from 2020 to 2030. In Fort Wayne, electricians earn an average salary of around $55,000 per year, making it a lucrative career choice.
Electrician Training Programs in Fort Wayne, Indiana
If you’re looking to become an electrician in Fort Wayne, several local schools and organizations offer excellent training programs:
- Ivy Tech Community College – Fort Wayne Campus
- Program: Electrical Engineering Technology
- Description: Ivy Tech offers a comprehensive program that covers electrical theory, wiring, and safety practices. Students can earn an Associate of Applied Science degree, which prepares them for various electrical careers.
- Location: North Campus, Fort Wayne
- Link: Ivy Tech Community College – Electrical Engineering Technology
- Fort Wayne Electrical JATC (Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee)
- Program: Electrical Apprenticeship
- Description: This program combines classroom instruction with on-the-job training. Apprentices learn from experienced journeyman electricians and gain hands-on experience in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
- Location: New Haven, near Fort Wayne
- Link: Fort Wayne Electrical JATC
- Purdue University Fort Wayne
- Program: Electrical Engineering Technology
- Description: Purdue Fort Wayne offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering Technology. The program includes courses in electrical circuits, digital electronics, and programmable logic controllers (PLCs).
- Location: North Anthony, Fort Wayne
- Link: Purdue University Fort Wayne – Electrical Engineering Technology
Typical Program Curriculum
Electrician training programs in Fort Wayne typically include a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Courses may cover:
- Electrical theory and principles
- Wiring methods and materials
- Electrical code and safety regulations
- Blueprint reading and electrical schematics
- Residential, commercial, and industrial electrical systems
- Programmable logic controllers (PLCs)
- Renewable energy systems
Programs can range from a few months for certificate courses to two years for associate degrees. Some programs may offer specializations in areas such as industrial automation or renewable energy.
Electrician Employment Opportunities in Fort Wayne
Fort Wayne is home to several major electrical contractors and companies that offer employment opportunities for electricians:
- Shambaugh & Son, L.P.
- Description: Shambaugh & Son is one of the largest electrical contractors in the region, specializing in design-build construction, electrical contracting, and maintenance services.
- Location: North Anthony, Fort Wayne
- Link: Shambaugh & Son – Careers
- Current Mechanical
- Description: Current Mechanical provides electrical, HVAC, and plumbing services to residential, commercial, and industrial clients. They offer career opportunities for electricians at various levels.
- Location: West Central, Fort Wayne
- Link: Current Mechanical – Careers
- Barton-Coe-Vilamaa
- Description: Barton-Coe-Vilamaa is an engineering and architectural firm that offers electrical design and consulting services. They hire electricians for various projects and roles.
- Location: Downtown Fort Wayne
- Link: Barton-Coe-Vilamaa – Careers
Electrician Licensing Requirements in Indiana
To become an electrician in Fort Wayne, IN, you’ll need to meet both state and local requirements:
State Requirements
- Indiana Electrical License: Issued by the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (IPLA). Requirements include:
- 4 years of experience as an apprentice electrician or 8,000 hours of on-the-job training
- Passing the electrical licensing exam administered by the IPLA
- Indiana Electrical Certification: Optional but recommended. Requirements include:
- Meeting the experience requirements for licensure
- Passing a certification exam in a specific area of electrical work
Local Requirements
- Fort Wayne Electrical Permit: Required by the City of Fort Wayne. Requirements include:
- A valid Indiana electrical license
- Passing a background check
- City of Fort Wayne – Electrical Permits
- Allen County Electrical Inspections: Required for certain types of electrical work. Requirements include:
- A valid Indiana electrical license
- Scheduling an inspection with the Allen County Building Department
Other Requirements
- OSHA Certification: Highly recommended for electricians. Obtainable through the OSHA Training Institute.
- NFPA Certification: Optional certifications offered by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as an electrician in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is a rewarding and promising journey. With the right training and certifications, you can join a growing field with excellent job prospects. Contact a local school or apprenticeship program today to get started on your path to becoming a skilled electrician. Take the first step towards a bright future in the electrical industry!