Electrician Schools in Delaware

As wonderful as it is to work as an electrician in Delaware currently, candidates will be glad to know that the future is even brighter. Employment platforms like the Bureau of Labor Statistics predict a continual increase in demand and favorable salaries for professionals in this field, thanks to sustained technological advancements.

Starting a career in the field can be challenging for the unprepared. To address this, we have provided an extensive guide below, examining all the key considerations and requirements that residents of Delaware must know to start their electrician careers without being caught off guard.

We analyze the educational options, licensing and certification requirements, top programs, and salary projections.

How to Become an Electrician in Delaware

Delaware residents may follow the steps below to start their electrician careers on a strong path.

Fundamental Requirements

Becoming a successful electrician in the state of Delaware begins with proper education. However, before securing admission into a training program, state residents must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license.

A high school diploma or GED equivalent is also necessary.

Technical Training

Candidates must acquire classroom and hands-on work experience training for their education. For the first part, candidates typically apply for admission into community colleges and technical schools with reputable electrician programs.

One of the sections below outlines some of the best options to consider in this regard: one-year certificate programs or two-year associate degree programs.

Apprenticeship Training

Apprenticeship training programs are the most common approach to starting a career as an electrician in Delaware. The state board does not mandate a certain number of classroom hours of training. Still, it does require 8,000 hours of work experience through an apprenticeship or supervision from a licensed electrician.

Licensing & Job Placement

After completing the steps above, candidates can fulfill the state licensing requirements. From there, they may choose an area of specialization and secure employment at notable establishments across the state.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Learn how to become a welder in Delaware

Licensure & Certification Requirements

The state of Delaware oversees licensing requirements for aspiring electricians through the Delaware Board of Electrical Examiners. All electricians need to be licensed before they can start working professionally.

However, the particular category of licensing they will apply for will depend on a few factors, including how long they’ve been on the job. Those just starting will have to go for a journeyperson license. Candidates must have met the abovementioned requirements, including 8,000 hours of work experience, before qualifying.

The process also involves applying for the journeyperson licensing examination, which costs $100 in exam fees. Once applicants pass the examination, they can receive their official license after paying a $99 licensing fee.

Subsequently, journeyman license holders in Delaware may upgrade to a master electrician license after 4 years of experience in that capacity. They will have to pass the master electrician license as well.

Top Electrician Schools in Delaware

The schools below are among the best for prospective electricians in Delaware.

Explore electrician schools in Delaware by city:

• Electrician schools in Wilmington

Salary & Career Outlook

The annual average salary of an electrician in Delaware can vary by location. Currently, the following locations boast the highest annual average salary by city for electricians in the state:

• New Castle, with an annual average salary of $83,649;
• Newark, with an annual average salary of $72,006;
• Clayton, with an annual average salary of $70,514.

Along with location, an electrician’s experience level, professional credentials, specific employer, and specialty area will all play some part in determining their overall yearly earnings. Without highlighting a specific factor, the median annual average salary for electricians in Delaware is $69,429—virtually the same as the national average.

Concerning those who are among the top 10%, the annual average salary to expect is $96,796. As for those among the lowest-paid in the bottom 10%, the annual average salary usually hovers around $49,800.

Looking to the future, candidates can rest assured as the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a continual increase in the employment rate for electricians in Delaware and across the country.