An electrician’s role in Colorado is more than just handling electrical power issues. It’s about being a problem-solver, a skilled professional who can easily perform basic repairs and installations. As a journeyman electrician, you’ll gain more experience, making each day a new learning opportunity.
This page is a treasure trove of resources for individuals looking to embark on their electrician career in Colorado. We’re here to guide you through the key components and considerations, including basic educational requirements and various training alternatives, ensuring you have all the support you need.
We also consider possible licensure and certification options, the top programs in the state, and the salary projections and outlooks given by notable organizations and platforms.
How to Become an Electrician in Colorado
Here’s an outline of the requirements to become an electrician in Colorado.
Basic Knowledge
A high school diploma or GED is often one of the major requirements necessary for aspiring electricians in Colorado to secure training opportunities. Knowledge of mathematics, physics, English language, and technical drawing is also useful.
Training Routes
There are a few routes to consider regarding actual training in electrical technology. These include trade schools, apprenticeship programs, and other on-the-job training arrangements.
Trade Schools
Trade schools, community colleges, technical schools, and vocational institutions all fall under the same umbrella regarding electrical technology training. These academic training programs emphasize classroom instructions and a hint of hands-on training.
They tend to be very helpful in securing employment thanks to their connections.
Apprenticeship Programs
While apprenticeship programs incorporate a few hours of classroom training, the emphasis here is on hands-on training and real-world experience. Trade unions and professional organizations typically organize them, although trade schools may also have their apprenticeship arrangements.
Thanks to the comprehensive nature of their training, it may take up to 4 years to complete an apprenticeship program as an aspiring electrician in Colorado.
Employment
Candidates can secure employment at relevant institutions after completing all the above steps. They may also start their businesses.
Regardless of their choice, professional credentials can provide extra credibility. We explore this and the licensing requirements below.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
To become a licensed electrician in Colorado, candidates must fulfill the steps above. The goal is to acquire at least 288 hours of classroom training and 8,000 hours of work experience.
The state mandates proficiency in grounding and bonding, theory and calculations, national electrical code, wiring methods, and OSHA safety training. Candidates must then apply with a $100 application fee.
They must also sit for an examination and pay a $75 exam fee. Candidates must attain a 70% score to pass.
Some top certification options include the LEED Green Associate credential administered by the U.S. Green Building Council and the Certified Automation Professional credential administered by the International Society of Automation (ISA).
Top Electrician Schools in Colorado
The list below contains some of the most notable electrician schools for candidates in Colorado.
Emily Griffith Technical College
At Emily Griffith Technical College, residents of Denver may enroll in a top-class electrical technology program and enjoy theoretical and hands-on training. Although a technical college offers it, this program operates as an apprenticeship certificate program in partnership with trade unions and organizations that provide real-world training for students and an opportunity to earn on the job.
Red Rocks Community College
Red Rocks Community College boasts several training programs for aspiring electricians in Colorado. Most are two-year associate programs, but short, fast-tracked, six-month certificate programs exist.
Graduates here can work in various electrician positions, including construction electricians, maintenance electricians, industrial controls electricians, and more.
The school has campuses in Lakewood and Arvada.
Colorado Technical University
With campuses in Aurora and Colorado Springs, Colorado Technical University offers highly comprehensive training programs in electrical technology for candidates all over the state. The main program is a two-year electronics technology degree program with strong connections with four-year universities for easy credit transfer and career advancement.
Explore electrician schools in Colorado by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
Electricians in Colorado are not just adequately compensated; they have the potential for significant growth and success. You’re starting on a solid foundation with an annual salary of $68,487, which aligns with the national average. But remember, this is just the beginning. As you gain experience and specialize, your earning potential can increase significantly, offering you a bright and promising future.
Those just starting and the lowest 10% earners can still expect to earn an annual average salary of at least $46,315. Those in the top 10% of earners take home at least $101,272 annually.
Factors such as experience, area of specialization, overtime, and many others can determine an electrician’s earnings in Colorado.
As for the highest-paid cities in the state with the highest salaries for these professionals, Golden, Eaglewood, and Aurora lead the way with annual average salaries of $112,919, $90,765, and $74,215, respectively. They are followed in the top five by Boulder and Loveland, with annual average salaries of $72,086 and $70,197, respectively.
Electricians in Denver earn an annual average salary of $69,473.
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