Electrician Programs in Arlington, Virginia

Becoming an Electrician in Arlington, Virginia

Why Become an Electrician in Arlington

Arlington, Virginia, a vibrant urban county located just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., offers a wealth of opportunities for aspiring electricians. Known for its bustling neighborhoods like Crystal City, Rosslyn, and Ballston, Arlington is a hub of economic activity and innovation. The average salary for electricians in Arlington is competitive, and the job market is expected to grow steadily over the next decade. For more detailed statistics on job outlook and salary, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Electrician Training Programs in Arlington, Virginia

Arlington offers several reputable electrician training programs and apprenticeships. Here are three local options:

1. Arlington Career Center
   • Location: Arlington, VA
   • Program: Electrical Technology Program
   • Description: The Arlington Career Center offers a comprehensive Electrical Technology Program that covers both theoretical and practical aspects of electrical work. The program prepares students for entry-level positions and apprenticeships.
   • Website: Arlington Career Center Electrical Technology
2. Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA)
   • Location: Alexandria Campus, Alexandria, VA (approximately 5 miles from Arlington)
   • Program: Electrical Technology A.A.S. Degree
   • Description: NOVA offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Electrical Technology. The program includes coursework in electrical theory, wiring, and safety, along with hands-on training.
   • Website: NOVA Electrical Technology
3. IEC Chesapeake
   • Location: Laurel, MD (approximately 30 miles from Arlington)
   • Program: Electrical Apprenticeship Program
   • Description: IEC Chesapeake provides a four-year apprenticeship program that combines classroom instruction with on-the-job training. Graduates are well-prepared to take the journeyman electrician exam.
   • Website: IEC Chesapeake Apprenticeship

Typical Program Curriculum

Electrician programs typically include a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Courses often cover:

• Electrical Theory: Understanding the principles of electricity and how it is generated, transmitted, and used.
• Wiring and Installation: Learning how to install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
• Safety Practices: Emphasizing the importance of safety on the job, including OSHA standards and best practices.
• Blueprint Reading: Developing the ability to read and interpret electrical blueprints and diagrams.
• Specializations: Some programs offer specializations in areas like renewable energy, industrial electrical systems, or advanced automation.

Programs can range from a few months for certificate courses to two years for associate degrees.

Electrician Employment Opportunities in Arlington

Arlington is home to several major electrical contractors and companies that frequently hire electricians. Here are a few:

1. M.C. Dean, Inc.
   • Location: Tysons, VA (approximately 10 miles from Arlington)
   • Description: M.C. Dean is a leading electrical engineering and systems integration firm. They offer a range of employment opportunities for electricians at various levels.
   • Website: M.C. Dean Careers
2. Power Design, Inc.
   • Location: Alexandria, VA (approximately 5 miles from Arlington)
   • Description: Power Design is a national electrical contractor specializing in large-scale commercial projects. They provide excellent career growth opportunities for electricians.
   • Website: Power Design Careers
3. Rosendin Electric
   • Location: Sterling, VA (approximately 20 miles from Arlington)
   • Description: Rosendin Electric is one of the largest electrical contractors in the U.S., offering a variety of positions for electricians.
   • Website: Rosendin Careers

Electrician Licensing Requirements in Virginia

To become a licensed electrician in Arlington, VA, you need to meet the requirements set by the county, state, and federal governments.

County Requirements
– Arlington County Electrical License: Required for electrical work in Arlington County.
– Must pass a written exam administered by the Arlington County Department of Community Planning, Housing and Development (CPHD).
– Must have at least 2 years of experience as a journeyman electrician or have completed an approved apprenticeship program.
– Must provide proof of liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance.
– Arlington County Government: Electrical Licenses

State Requirements
– Virginia State Electrical License: Required for electrical work in the state of Virginia.
– Must pass a written exam administered by the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR).
– Must have at least 2 years of experience as a journeyman electrician or have completed an approved apprenticeship program.
– Must provide proof of liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance.
– Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation: Electrical Licensing

Federal Requirements
– OSHA Certification: Required for electrical work in the United States.
– Must complete an OSHA-approved training program, such as the OSHA 10-Hour Construction Industry Outreach Training Program.
– Occupational Safety and Health Administration: Construction Industry Outreach Training Program

Certifications
– National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) Certification: Optional, but recommended.
– Must meet the NECA certification requirements, which include passing a written exam and having at least 2 years of experience as a journeyman electrician.
– National Electrical Contractors Association: Certification
– International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI) Certification: Optional, but recommended.
– Must meet the IAEI certification requirements, which include passing a written exam and having at least 2 years of experience as a journeyman electrician.
– International Association of Electrical Inspectors: Certification

Insurance Requirements
– Liability Insurance: Required for electrical work in Arlington County and the state of Virginia.
– Must provide proof of liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $100,000.
– Workers’ Compensation Insurance: Required for electrical work in Arlington County and the state of Virginia.
– Must provide proof of workers’ compensation insurance with a minimum coverage of $100,000.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as an electrician in Arlington, Virginia, is a promising and rewarding path. With a variety of training programs and a robust job market, now is the perfect time to take the first step. Contact a local school or apprenticeship program today to begin your journey toward becoming a skilled electrician. The future is bright, and the opportunities are endless—start your electrician education today!