Several qualities separate great electricians from mediocre ones. However, one of the most important aspects is the quality of training they receive to start their careers.
As with most professions, having a strong knowledge foundation to build upon goes a long way in determining the success of an electrician. Thankfully, candidates in Detroit, Michigan, have several high-quality programs to enroll in to acquire a strong knowledge base and launch a long-lasting career.
Of course, exhausting the list of viable alternatives can be challenging, so we have curated only the most worthwhile below. Along with the names of the schools and the specific programs to consider, readers will also discover the features and qualities they can expect once they secure admission and start their training.
How to Become an Electrician in Detroit
The two most common training arrangements for aspiring electricians in Detroit are those that focus on “on-the-job” training and those that are simply academic. The ultimate objective for an aspiring electrician in the city is to find the right balance between on-the-job and classroom training.
Both training avenues typically require candidates to be at least 18 and have a high school diploma or GED.
The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) is responsible for issuing state licenses to electricians statewide. However, Detroit has a local governing agency that issues electrical licenses.
To qualify for a license, candidates must acquire 8,000 hours of real-world experience learning “on-the-job” and participate in 576 hours of classroom training.
Top Electrician Schools in Detroit, Michigan
Below are some top-quality electrician training programs in and around Detroit, Michigan.
Wayne Community College District
Detroit, MI Online + Campus
Wayne Community College offers what is, without a doubt, the most popular and comprehensive electrical technology program in Detroit. The program has produced numerous successful graduates and continues to do so.
Tuition
$3,263 - $3,998Contact
(313) 496-2600
studentservices@mail.wcccd.edu
Mid Michigan Community College
Harrison, MI Online + Campus
Mid Michigan Community College is another popular community college in Detroit that offers top-class electrical technology training. This program boasts many experienced instructors and a wonderful learning environment.
Tuition
$148 - $427 per CreditContact
(989) 386-6661
admissions@midmich.edu
Henry Ford Community College
Dearborn, MI Online + Campus
Henry Ford Community College in Dearborn offers an associate degree program in electrical technology for interested candidates from all over the state.
Tuition
$5,308 - $7,348Contact
(313) 845-9600
enrollmentservices@hfcc.edu
Lansing Community College
Lansing, MI Online + Campus
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Lansing Community College offers an Electrical Utility Lineworker Certificate program for candidates who would like to specialize as line workers.
Tuition
$114 - $399 per CreditContact
(517) 483-1999
lcc-admissions@lcc.edu
Apprenticeship Programs
Candidates in Detroit can consider several apprenticeship programs for hands-on training, including union and non-union options. For example, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Union (IBEW) offers several union-based apprenticeship programs, including one in Detroit (at the Detroit Electrical Industry Training Center—IBEW local 58).
These programs are organized with the National Electrical Contractors Association and operate through the Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committees.
Other options include the Kalamazoo Electrical JATC—Local 131 and the Lansing Electrical JATC—Local 665.
Notable Mentions
Other notable destinations to receive strong training as aspiring electricians in Detroit include the Electrical Engineering Certificate program at Michigan State University; Macomb Community College’s Electrical Technology program; the Electrical Controls Certificate program at Grand Rapids Community College; the Electronics and Electrical Technologies Certificate program at Mott Community College, and the Advanced Certificate Electrical Program at Delta College, among others.
Explore nearby states for education and training:
Explore detailed steps and the state’s licensing requirements: