Electrician Programs in Gresham, Oregon
Becoming an Electrician in Gresham, Oregon
Why Become an Electrician in Gresham
Gresham, Oregon, located just east of Portland, is a vibrant city known for its beautiful parks, thriving local businesses, and strong community spirit. As the fourth largest city in Oregon, Gresham offers numerous opportunities for aspiring electricians. The average salary for electricians in Oregon is approximately $70,000 per year, with a projected job growth of 8% over the next decade. For more detailed statistics, you can visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Electrician Training Programs in Gresham, Oregon
If you’re looking to become an electrician in Gresham, there are several local programs and schools that can help you get started:
- Mt. Hood Community College (MHCC)
- Location: Gresham, OR
- Program: MHCC offers an Electrical Apprenticeship Technologies program that combines classroom instruction with hands-on training. Students can expect to learn about electrical theory, code requirements, and practical skills.
- MHCC Electrical Apprenticeship Program
- Portland Community College (PCC)
- Location: Portland, OR (approximately 15 miles from Gresham)
- Program: PCC provides an Electrical Trades Apprenticeship program that prepares students for careers as electricians. The program includes coursework in electrical systems, safety practices, and technical skills.
- PCC Electrical Trades Apprenticeship Program
- Independent Electrical Contractors of Oregon (IEC)
- Location: Portland, OR (approximately 15 miles from Gresham)
- Program: IEC offers a comprehensive apprenticeship program that includes both classroom instruction and on-the-job training. The program covers a wide range of topics, including electrical theory, code, and practical applications.
- IEC Oregon Apprenticeship Program
Typical Program Curriculum
Electrician programs typically include a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Here are some common courses and training components you can expect:
- Electrical Theory: Understanding the principles of electricity and how electrical systems work.
- National Electrical Code (NEC): Learning the standards and regulations for safe electrical installations.
- Blueprint Reading: Developing the ability to read and interpret electrical blueprints and diagrams.
- Safety Practices: Emphasizing the importance of safety in all electrical work.
- Hands-On Training: Gaining practical experience through supervised on-the-job training.
Programs generally take around 4-5 years to complete, depending on whether you are pursuing an apprenticeship or a vocational training program.
Electrician Employment Opportunities in Gresham
Gresham is home to several major electrical contractors and companies that offer employment opportunities for electricians:
- EC Company
- Location: Portland, OR (approximately 15 miles from Gresham)
- Description: EC Company is a leading electrical contractor in the Pacific Northwest, providing a range of electrical services for commercial, industrial, and residential projects.
- EC Company Careers
- Christenson Electric
- Location: Portland, OR (approximately 15 miles from Gresham)
- Description: Christenson Electric offers comprehensive electrical contracting services, including design, installation, and maintenance for various sectors.
- Christenson Electric Careers
- OEG Inc.
- Location: Portland, OR (approximately 15 miles from Gresham)
- Description: OEG Inc. is a full-service electrical contractor specializing in commercial, industrial, and institutional projects.
- OEG Inc. Careers
Electrician Licensing Requirements in Oregon
To become a licensed electrician in Gresham, OR, you’ll need to meet the requirements set by the state of Oregon, as well as any local regulations. Here’s a breakdown of the necessary certifications, licenses, and requirements:
State Requirements
- Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB) License: You’ll need to register with the CCB and obtain a license to work as an electrician in Oregon. Oregon CCB Website
- Oregon Electrical License: The Oregon Electrical Board issues licenses to electricians. You’ll need to pass a written exam and meet the experience requirements to become a licensed electrician. Oregon Electrical Board Website
- Journeyman Electrician License: To become a journeyman electrician, you’ll need to complete an apprenticeship program or have at least 8,000 hours of work experience as an electrician. You’ll also need to pass a written exam. Oregon Electrical Board Journeyman License Requirements
- Master Electrician License: To become a master electrician, you’ll need to have at least 12,000 hours of work experience as a journeyman electrician and pass a written exam. Oregon Electrical Board Master License Requirements
Local Requirements
- City of Gresham Business License: You’ll need to obtain a business license from the City of Gresham to operate as an electrician within the city limits. City of Gresham Business License Application
- Gresham Electrical Permit: You’ll need to obtain an electrical permit from the City of Gresham for each electrical project you work on. City of Gresham Electrical Permit Application
Licensure Reciprocity
Oregon has reciprocity agreements with several states, allowing electricians licensed in those states to obtain an Oregon license more easily. For more information on reciprocity agreements and the application process, visit the Oregon Electrical Board Reciprocity Information.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as an electrician in Gresham, Oregon, can be a rewarding and fulfilling journey. With the right training and certifications, you’ll be well-equipped to enter this in-demand field. Contact a local school or apprenticeship program today to take the first step towards your new career. Don’t wait—start your journey to becoming an electrician now!