Electrician Programs in Spokane, Washington
Becoming an Electrician in Spokane, Washington
Why Become an Electrician in Spokane
Spokane, Washington, known as the “Lilac City,” offers a vibrant community and a growing job market for electricians. With its scenic beauty, including the Spokane River and Riverfront Park, and a blend of urban and suburban neighborhoods, Spokane is an attractive place to start your career as an electrician. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for electricians is projected to grow by 8% from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. The average salary for electricians in Spokane is competitive, making it a viable career choice.
Electrician Training Programs in Spokane, Washington
If you’re looking to become an electrician in Spokane, several local schools and organizations offer comprehensive programs:
- Spokane Community College (SCC)
- Location: East Spokane
- Program: SCC offers an Electrical Maintenance and Automation program that prepares students for various roles in the electrical field. The program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training.
- Website: Spokane Community College – Electrical Maintenance
- Apprenticeship and Journeyman Training Center (AJTC)
- Location: North Spokane
- Program: AJTC provides apprenticeship programs that combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. These programs are designed to help you become a licensed journeyman electrician.
- Website: AJTC – Apprenticeship Programs
- Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) of the Inland Empire
- Location: Spokane Valley
- Program: IEC offers a four-year apprenticeship program that includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of classroom instruction.
- Website: IEC Inland Empire – Apprenticeship
Typical Program Curriculum
Electrician programs typically cover a range of topics to prepare you for a successful career. Courses often include:
- Electrical Theory: Understanding the principles of electricity.
- National Electrical Code (NEC): Learning the standards for safe electrical installation.
- Blueprint Reading: Interpreting electrical plans and diagrams.
- Residential and Commercial Wiring: Techniques for wiring homes and businesses.
- Safety Practices: Ensuring safe work environments and procedures.
Programs usually last between 2 to 4 years, depending on whether you’re pursuing an apprenticeship or a technical degree. Specializations may include residential, commercial, or industrial electrical work.
Electrician Employment Opportunities in Spokane
Several major electrical contractors and companies in Spokane offer employment opportunities for electricians:
- Colvico, Inc.
- Location: East Spokane
- Description: Colvico specializes in electrical contracting and engineering services, focusing on commercial and industrial projects.
- Website: Colvico, Inc. – Careers
- Power City Electric, Inc.
- Location: North Spokane
- Description: Power City Electric provides a range of electrical services, including design-build, maintenance, and emergency services.
- Website: Power City Electric – Employment
- Moran Electrical Contracting
- Location: Spokane Valley
- Description: Moran Electrical Contracting offers residential, commercial, and industrial electrical services.
- Website: Moran Electrical Contracting – Careers
Electrician Licensing Requirements in Washington
To become a licensed electrician in Spokane, WA, you’ll need to meet the requirements set by the state of Washington, Spokane County, and the City of Spokane.
State of Washington Requirements
– Electrician License: Issued by the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I). You’ll need to pass a written exam and meet the experience requirements.
– Washington State Department of Labor and Industries – Electrician Licensing
– Certifications: Recognized certifications from the International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
– IAEI – Certifications
– NFPA – Certifications
Spokane County Requirements
– Business License: Obtain a business license from Spokane County.
– Spokane County – Business License
City of Spokane Requirements
– Electrical Permit: Required for electrical work in the city.
– City of Spokane – Electrical Permits
– Business License: Obtain a business license from the City of Spokane.
– City of Spokane – Business License
Other Requirements
– Continuing Education: Complete continuing education courses to maintain your license.
– Washington State Department of Labor and Industries – Continuing Education
– Insurance: Carry liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance.
– Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner – Insurance Requirements
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as an electrician in Spokane, Washington, is a rewarding and promising journey. With a variety of training programs available and a robust job market, now is the perfect time to take the next step. Contact a local school or apprenticeship program today and begin your path to becoming a licensed electrician. Your future in this essential and dynamic field awaits!