Electrician Programs in Chesapeake, Virginia

Becoming an Electrician in Chesapeake, Virginia

Why Become an Electrician in Chesapeake

Chesapeake, Virginia, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and thriving economy. Located in the heart of the Hampton Roads metropolitan area, Chesapeake offers a blend of urban and suburban living with a strong sense of community. The city is home to the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge and the Chesapeake Arboretum, making it an attractive place for nature enthusiasts.

Becoming an electrician in Chesapeake can be a rewarding career choice. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for electricians in Virginia is competitive, and the job growth for electricians is projected to be strong in the coming years. With a growing demand for skilled tradespeople, Chesapeake is an excellent place to start your journey as an electrician.

Electrician Training Programs in Chesapeake, Virginia

If you’re considering becoming an electrician in Chesapeake, there are several local programs and schools to help you get started:

1. Tidewater Community College (TCC)
   • Location: Chesapeake Campus
   • Program: Electrical Technology Program
   • Description: TCC offers a comprehensive Electrical Technology program that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training. Students can earn an Associate of Applied Science degree, preparing them for various roles in the electrical industry.
2. Virginia Beach Electrical JATC
   • Location: Virginia Beach (approximately 20 miles from Chesapeake)
   • Program: Apprenticeship Program
   • Description: The Virginia Beach Electrical Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC) offers a robust apprenticeship program. This program combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction, allowing apprentices to earn while they learn.
3. ECPI University
   • Location: Virginia Beach (approximately 20 miles from Chesapeake)
   • Program: Electrical Engineering Technology Program
   • Description: ECPI University offers a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology. This program provides a strong foundation in electrical theory and practical skills, preparing graduates for various technical roles in the electrical field.

Typical Program Curriculum

Electrician training programs typically include a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Here are some common courses and topics you can expect:

• Electrical Theory: Understanding the principles of electricity, including voltage, current, resistance, and power.
• Blueprint Reading: Learning to read and interpret electrical blueprints and schematics.
• National Electrical Code (NEC): Studying the NEC, which sets the standards for electrical installations.
• Wiring and Installation: Hands-on training in wiring techniques, conduit bending, and installing electrical systems.
• Safety Practices: Emphasizing the importance of safety in the electrical trade, including OSHA regulations.
• Specializations: Some programs offer specializations in areas such as residential, commercial, or industrial electrical work.

Programs can vary in length, typically ranging from a few months for certificate programs to two years for associate degree programs.

Electrician Employment Opportunities in Chesapeake

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

1. Bay Electric Co., Inc.
   • Location: Greenbrier West
   • Website: Bay Electric Co., Inc.
   • Description: Bay Electric Co., Inc. is a leading electrical contractor in the region, offering a wide range of services, including commercial, industrial, and residential electrical work.
2. ColonialWebb Contractors
   • Location: Greenbrier East
   • Website: ColonialWebb Contractors
   • Description: ColonialWebb Contractors is a large mechanical and electrical contractor that provides services across the Mid-Atlantic region. They offer various career opportunities for electricians.
3. E. T. Gresham Company, Inc.
   • Location: South Norfolk
   • Website: E. T. Gresham Company, Inc.
   • Description: E. T. Gresham Company, Inc. is a full-service construction and electrical contractor with a strong presence in the Chesapeake area.

Electrician Licensing Requirements in Virginia

To become an electrician in Chesapeake, VA, you’ll need to meet the following state and local requirements:

State Requirements

• Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR)
  • Virginia Board for Contractors
  • Electrician Licensing Requirements
• Virginia Class A, B, or C Electrical Contractor License
  • Required to perform electrical work in Virginia
  • Application and Requirements

Local Requirements

• City of Chesapeake
  • City of Chesapeake Business License
  • Electrical Permit Requirements
• Chesapeake County
  • No specific county-level requirements for electricians

Certifications

• National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA)
  • Certified Electrical Contractor (CEC)
• International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI)
  • Certified Electrical Inspector (CEI)
• National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET)
  • Certified Electrical Technician (CET)

Federal Requirements

• Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
  • OSHA 10-Hour Construction Industry Outreach Training Program
• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
  • EPA Lead-Safe Certification

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as an electrician in Chesapeake, Virginia, is a promising and rewarding decision. With a variety of training programs and a growing demand for skilled electricians, now is the perfect time to take the next step. Contact a local school or apprenticeship program today to begin your journey. Your future as a successful electrician in Chesapeake awaits!