Des Moines, Iowa, offers candidates several high-quality destinations to receive extensive training as prospective electricians. These include apprenticeship programs that combine classroom instruction with hands-on experience and academic programs that allow students to earn degrees and certificates.
However, more important than the specific training arrangement that a candidate chooses is that they choose a destination that offers robust training, experienced instructors, state-of-the-art facilities, and possible career services.
The list below aims to eliminate the potential stress of finding programs that meet these requirements and introduce students to prominent alternatives to consider. We also provide a quick overview of the steps needed to start an electrician career in Des Moines.
How to Become an Electrician in Des Moines
Becoming an electrician in Des Moines starts with a high school diploma or GED. This is needed to secure admission into a training program.
One flexible part of the process is choosing a training program. Generally, electrical technology programs can be offered by community colleges and technical schools (like the ones listed below) and apprenticeship programs (also listed below).
After education, licensure is the next important issue. Electricians in the morning are expected to have at least a journeyman license to start working professionally. From there, they may become master electricians or even electrical contractors.
Top Electrician Schools Des Moines, Iowa
The following are top-class electrician training programs in and around Des Moines, Iowa.
Des Moines Area Community College
Newton, IA Campus Only
Aspiring electricians in Des Moines who are particularly interested in attending a reputable institution near their homes can consider the program available at Des Moines Area Community College. This institution boasts several experienced instructors and has produced numerous successful graduates.
Tuition
$193 per CreditContact
(800) 362-2127
bttpathway@dmacc.edu
Marshalltown Community College
Marshalltown, IA Campus Only
Marshalltown Community College in Des Moines is another excellent destination for candidates who desire proximity. The school offers a wonderful certificate program in Electrical Maintenance Mechanics at its Marshalltown campus.
Tuition
$203 - $271 per CreditContact
(866) 622-4748
mccinfo@iavalley.edu
Iowa Central Community College
Fort Dodge, IA Campus + Online
Iowa Central Community College offers an Electrical Apprenticeship training program for candidates anywhere in the state. This program is notable for providing a strong theoretical foundation for students and emphasizing robust hands-on training to help them build upon this.
Tuition
$75 - $295 per CreditContact
(515) 574-1018
george@iowacentral.edu
Northwest Iowa Community College
Sheldon, IA Campus + Online
Northwest Iowa Community College in Sheldon boasts several excellent technical programs, including a notable Electrical Technology program through which students can earn an associate degree. Accepted applicants will learn key topics such as the national electric code, safety principles, hazard recognition, and residential wiring.
Tuition
$208 - $221 per CreditContact
(866) 800-9294
admissions@nwicc.edu
Iowa Lakes Community College
Estherville, IA Campus Only
At Iowa Lakes Community College, residents of Des Moines and across the state can enroll in an Associate Degree program in Electrical Technology.
Tuition
$211 - $226 per CreditContact
(800) 242-5106
dzemler@iowalakes.edu
Apprenticeship Training
Of course, aspiring electricians in Des Moines who are particular about apprenticeship programs will also find relevant options to consider here. Arguably, the most prominent are the programs offered through the local Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committees.
These programs usually combine efforts from the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and the National Electrical Contractors.
Candidates can find these JATCs in Des Moines (IBEW Local 347), Cedar Rapids, Burlington, and Waterloo.
For non-union training, the prominent option is the apprenticeship program offered by the Iowa chapter of the Associated Builders and Contractors organization.
Explore detailed steps and the state’s licensing requirements:
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