An electrician in Anchorage AK is a skilled trade professional who installs, maintains and repairs electrical systems in homes and businesses. Their skills are in high demand and they earn a good income.
To become an electrician, you must complete a formal apprenticeship program that typically lasts three years or more. During your training, you learn how to read blueprints and technical diagrams. You also learn how to use testing devices and inspect wiring.
Job Description
Electricians install, maintain and troubleshoot electrical systems. They also repair and replace damaged or defective wiring in buildings.
They use a variety of hand and power tools to test wires, run electrical cables into walls and connect them together. They may also check the serviceability of electric motors.
These electricians often work in commercial facilities such as restaurants, schools or factories. They may also work in industrial settings such as mining or oil and gas industries.
In Alaska, there are a number of union apprenticeship programs and independent electrical trade schools to help you earn your electrician’s license and start your career. You’ll learn about different aspects of the trade during your training, including reading blueprints and technical diagrams, using testing devices and understanding local and state building codes and regulations.
In addition to local licensing and certifications, some electricians choose to earn national certifications as a way to gain additional marketability. They can do so through Independent Electrical Contractors, the Associated General Contractors of America or the National Fire Protection Association.
Education Requirements
With Alaska’s economy centered on fishing, mining and tourism, electricians are essential to keeping residential, commercial and government properties running. In addition to their physical abilities, electricians need soft skills such as teamwork/collaboration, communication, problem-solving, and creativity.
Several vocational schools in Alaska offer training programs for electricians. One is the Alaska Vocational Technical Center, which offers a residential construction diploma and an advanced residential construction degree.
Another is Mat-Su College, which has an electrical apprenticeship program. Students attend evening classes and gain hands-on experience on commercial and residential projects.
Journeyman electricians are required to complete 1,400 hours of classroom work and 4,000 hours of on-the-job training. They then must pass an exam to receive a license from the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development.
Training Requirements
Electricians in Anchorage AK must receive training through an apprenticeship program. Typically, this involves working as an apprentice under a licensed electrician for a period of time and completing 1,400 hours of classroom education and 4,000 hours of on-the-job experience.
In Alaska, apprentices enroll in a union apprenticeship program through Joint Apprenticeship & Training Committees (JATC). The main JATC in this state is the Alaska Joint Electrical Apprenticeship & Training Trust.
After completing the apprenticeship, apprentices can apply for a journeyman license and work as an electrician. The requirements for journeyman level are different in each state, so be sure to check with your local government for specific rules.
License Requirements
Electricians in Alaska need to be licensed in order to work. There are two types of licenses: a trainee electrical license and a journeyman electrical license.
You can start a career as an electrician by enrolling in an apprenticeship program that lasts up to three years. These programs are usually offered by local unions.
Obtaining a job as an electrician can provide you with a good income and a career that is rewarding. The demand for electrical workers is expected to increase by 8 percent through 2026.
The training you receive as an electrician will prepare you to perform a variety of electrical services in both residential and commercial settings. An apprenticeship will teach you the fundamentals of the trade, including reading blueprints and technical diagrams, using testing devices, and adhering to local and state regulations.
Upon completion of an apprenticeship program, you will need to apply for an apprentice certificate of fitness. This certificate allows you to work under a licensed electrical administrator on residential and commercial sites.