Electrician Programs in Concord, North Carolina

Becoming an Electrician in Concord, North Carolina

Why Become an Electrician in Concord

Concord, North Carolina, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, thriving economy, and close-knit community. Located in Cabarrus County, Concord offers a blend of suburban charm and urban amenities. The city is home to the famous Charlotte Motor Speedway and Concord Mills, one of the largest shopping malls in the state. With a growing population and increasing demand for skilled trades, becoming an electrician in Concord is a promising career choice.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for electricians in North Carolina is competitive, and the job growth rate is projected to be faster than average over the next decade. This makes Concord an excellent place to start your journey as an electrician.

Electrician Training Programs in Concord, North Carolina

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

1. Rowan-Cabarrus Community College (RCCC)
   • Location: Concord, NC
   • Program: Electrical Systems Technology
   • Description: RCCC offers a robust Electrical Systems Technology program that prepares students for a career as an electrician. The curriculum includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training.
   • RCCC Electrical Systems Technology Program
2. Central Piedmont Community College (CPCC)
   • Location: Charlotte, NC (approximately 20 miles from Concord)
   • Program: Electrical Apprenticeship Program
   • Description: CPCC provides an Electrical Apprenticeship Program that combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction, helping students gain the skills needed to become a licensed electrician.
   • CPCC Electrical Apprenticeship Program
3. NCWorks Apprenticeship Program
   • Location: Various locations across North Carolina
   • Program: Electrical Apprenticeship
   • Description: NCWorks offers apprenticeship programs that provide hands-on training and classroom instruction. This program is ideal for those looking to gain practical experience while earning a wage.
   • NCWorks Apprenticeship Program

Typical Program Curriculum

Electrician training programs typically cover a wide range of topics and skills, including:

• Electrical Theory: Understanding the principles of electricity, circuits, and electrical systems.
• Safety Practices: Learning about electrical safety standards and protocols to ensure a safe working environment.
• Wiring and Installation: Hands-on training in wiring, installing electrical systems, and troubleshooting issues.
• Blueprint Reading: Gaining the ability to read and interpret electrical blueprints and schematics.
• National Electrical Code (NEC): Familiarizing yourself with the NEC, which sets the standards for electrical work in the United States.

Most programs take about 2-4 years to complete, depending on whether you are pursuing a certificate, diploma, or associate degree. Some programs also offer specializations in areas like residential, commercial, or industrial electrical work.

Electrician Employment Opportunities in Concord

Concord is home to several major electrical contractors and companies that offer employment opportunities for electricians:

1. Pike Electric
   • Location: Concord, NC
   • Description: Pike Electric is a leading provider of electrical contracting services, specializing in power delivery, construction, and maintenance.
   • Pike Electric Careers
2. Watson Electrical
   • Location: Charlotte, NC (serving the Concord area)
   • Description: Watson Electrical provides comprehensive electrical services, including installation, maintenance, and repair for residential, commercial, and industrial clients.
   • Watson Electrical Careers
3. Lake Electric Co., Inc.
   • Location: Charlotte, NC (serving the Concord area)
   • Description: Lake Electric offers a wide range of electrical services, including design, installation, and maintenance for various industries.
   • Lake Electric Careers

Electrician Licensing Requirements in North Carolina

To become an electrician in Concord, NC, you’ll need to meet the requirements at both the state and local levels. Here’s a breakdown of the necessary certifications, licenses, and requirements:

State Requirements

Licensure

• The North Carolina State Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors licenses electrical contractors in the state.
• To become a licensed electrician, you’ll need to pass a written exam and meet the experience requirements.
• There are two types of licenses:
  • Limited License: allows you to work on electrical systems up to 600 volts.
  • Unlimited License: allows you to work on electrical systems of any voltage.

NC State Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors

Certification

• The North Carolina Department of Labor requires electricians to be certified in certain areas, such as:
  • Electrical Safety Worker Certification
  • Electrical Contractor Certification

NC Department of Labor

Local Requirements

City of Concord

• The City of Concord requires electricians to obtain a business license and a privilege license.
• You’ll need to provide proof of liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance.

City of Concord Business License

Cabarrus County

• Cabarrus County requires electricians to obtain a permit for electrical work.
• You’ll need to provide proof of liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance.

Cabarrus County Permits

Insurance Requirements

• Liability insurance: $100,000 per occurrence, $300,000 aggregate
• Workers’ compensation insurance: as required by the NC Workers’ Compensation Act

NC Department of Insurance

Other Requirements

• Age: 18 years old
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Pass a background check

Get Started Today

Becoming an electrician in Concord, North Carolina, is a rewarding career choice with numerous opportunities for growth and advancement. With the right training and certification, you can join the ranks of skilled electricians who keep our homes, businesses, and industries running smoothly. Contact a school or apprenticeship program today to start your journey toward becoming a licensed electrician. Take the first step and invest in your future by pursuing a career in this dynamic and essential field.