5 Best Electrician Schools in Charlotte, NC

The Carolinas JATC is a committee comprised of representatives from the Atlantic Coast Chapter of the National Electrical Contractors Association and Local Union 379 International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers.

Candidates looking to enter the Carolinas JATC apprenticeship program must pass several oral interviews.

Then, once accepted into the four-year CETI Electrical Apprenticeship Training Program, students must complete classroom instruction, 8,000 hours of on-the-job training, and pass the NJATC Craft Certification Examination and Performance Test.

While this may seem like a significant amount of studying, this program is challenging, but graduates will see the fruits of their labor when entering the workforce.

With a certificate program in Electrical Systems Technology and an associate program in Electrical Engineering, Central Piedmont Community College prepares both student types for a successful career as electricians.

The certificate program teaches students how to interpret prints, schematics, and diagrams, select wiring methods, apply codes, conduct energy management calculations, install complex and straightforward electrical control wiring, and program logical controllers for simple functions.

Those in the more advanced associate degree program learn the same content but also have the option of a co-op or industrial safety certification to help build their resume.

In addition, many graduates use this degree to enter a bachelor’s degree program and beyond.

Situated in Dallas, North Carolina, Gaston College has a certificate and associate program in Electrical Systems Technology.

The certificate program was developed to deliver training for those interested in maintaining and installing electrical systems in industrial, commercial, and residential settings.

Coursework varies across firsthand experience and traditional classroom lectures.

The associate degree was designed to cover the same topics as the certificate, only with more complex concepts, theories, and skill set development.

Goodwill offers a free electrical training program for those looking to enter the electrical industry without needing the time and financial commitment of a degree program.

The class is 11 weeks and divided into the following topics:

• Electrical test equipment
• Residential electrical services
• Basic electrical construction drawings
• Conductors and cables
• Raceways and fittings
• Hand bending
• Device boxes
• An introduction to the National Electric Code
• Electrical theory
• Orientation to the electrical trade

The certified instructors are from the National Center for Construction Education and Research, so graduates of the program will receive a certification for Electrical Level 1.

Located in Polkton, South Piedmont Community College offers numerous certificate and associate degree programs.

The Electrical Systems certificate program and the Electrical Systems Technology associate program are excellent options for aspiring electricians.

Both give students the basic knowledge to have successful careers within the electric field.

Still, the electrical systems technology program is significantly more comprehensive and goes into greater detail on all topics.

In addition, the certificate can be completed in approximately one year, while the technology program requires a two-year commitment.