Electrician Programs in Columbia, Missouri
Becoming an Electrician in Columbia, Missouri
Why Become an Electrician in Columbia
Columbia, Missouri, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, thriving arts scene, and strong educational institutions. Home to the University of Missouri, Columbia offers a blend of urban amenities and small-town charm. The city is growing, and with that growth comes a demand for skilled tradespeople, including electricians.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for electricians in Missouri is competitive, and the job outlook is promising, with projected growth in the coming years. This makes Columbia an excellent place to start your career as an electrician.
Electrician Training Programs in Columbia, Missouri
If you’re looking to become an electrician in Columbia, there are several local programs to consider:
- Moberly Area Community College (MACC)
- Location: Columbia, MO
- Program: MACC offers an Electrical Technician Certificate program that provides foundational knowledge and hands-on training in electrical systems.
- Website: MACC Electrical Technician Program
- State Technical College of Missouri
- Location: Linn, MO (approximately 45 miles from Columbia)
- Program: The Electrical Technology program at State Tech covers residential, commercial, and industrial electrical systems.
- Website: State Tech Electrical Technology Program
- University of Missouri Extension
- Location: Columbia, MO
- Program: Offers various continuing education courses and certifications for electricians, focusing on advanced skills and safety.
- Website: MU Extension Electrical Courses
Typical Program Curriculum
Electrician programs typically include a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Courses often cover:
- Electrical theory and safety
- Blueprint reading
- Residential and commercial wiring
- National Electrical Code (NEC)
- Motor controls and programmable logic controllers (PLCs)
Programs usually last between 1 to 2 years for certificates or associate degrees. Apprenticeship programs, which combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction, typically last 4 years.
Electrician Employment Opportunities in Columbia
Several major electrical contractors and companies in Columbia offer employment opportunities for electricians:
- Midway Electric, Inc.
- Location: Columbia, MO
- Description: A full-service electrical contractor specializing in residential, commercial, and industrial projects.
- Website: Midway Electric Employment Opportunities
- Emery Sapp & Sons, Inc.
- Location: Columbia, MO
- Description: A construction company offering a range of services, including electrical contracting.
- Website: Emery Sapp & Sons Careers
- J. Louis Crum Corporation
- Location: Columbia, MO
- Description: Specializes in electrical contracting and maintenance services.
- Website: J. Louis Crum Corporation Careers
Electrician Licensing Requirements in Missouri
To become a licensed electrician in Columbia, MO, you’ll need to meet the requirements set by the state of Missouri, Boone County, and the city of Columbia.
State of Missouri Requirements
- Missouri Electrical License: Obtain a license through the Missouri Division of Professional Registration.
- Journeyman Electrician License: Complete an approved apprenticeship program (4 years, 8,000 hours), pass the journeyman electrician exam administered by the IAEI, and apply for the license.
- Master Electrician License: Hold a journeyman license for at least 2 years, complete an additional 2,000 hours of work experience, pass the master electrician exam, and apply for the license.
Boone County Requirements
- Boone County Electrical Permit: Obtain a permit before performing electrical work. More information can be found on the Boone County Government website.
City of Columbia Requirements
- City of Columbia Electrical License: Obtain a license to practice within the city limits. Details are available on the City of Columbia website.
- City of Columbia Electrical Permit: Obtain a permit before performing electrical work. More information is available on the City of Columbia website.
Other Requirements
- OSHA Certification: Highly recommended for safety. More information can be found on the OSHA website.
- NFPA Certification: Beneficial for career advancement. More information can be found on the NFPA website.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as an electrician in Columbia, Missouri, is a rewarding choice with numerous opportunities for growth and advancement. Contact a local school or apprenticeship program today to begin your journey. Take the first step toward a fulfilling and in-demand career as an electrician in Columbia!