The field of electrical technology is an exciting one. Not only do professionals in this discipline perform basic duties such as installing and maintaining wiring and electrical components, but they can also work on large-scale automation systems, including high-level renewable energy setups and smart technology.
Like most states, Oklahoma has a few rules that anybody looking to become an electrician must follow. Even before they start the process, those familiar with these rules will have a straightforward and enjoyable time.
This is why we have provided a detailed outlook exploring these key considerations, as well as more in the sections below.
How to Become an Electrician in Oklahoma
These are the steps necessary to become a successful electrician in Oklahoma.
Basic Requirements
To prepare for their careers as electricians in Oklahoma, candidates must first prepare for the educational requirements. To do this, they must have a high school diploma or GED and some proficiency in Mathematics and physics.
Training requirements
Training is crucial for laying the foundation for success as a future electrician. In Oklahoma, candidates may choose several approaches to education.
For instance, while some choose strictly " on-the-job” training through an apprenticeship, others choose academic training. However, The most common approach is combining academic training with on-the-job training.
The duration of training in each method will depend on the specific license a candidate wishes to pursue. For example, while some licensing categories require 6,000 hours of experience and 2,000 hours of classroom training, some need only 4,000 hours of experience and 1,000 hours of classroom training.
Employment & Career Growth
Those who have completed their education and fulfilled the licensing requirements may follow the steps in the next section to officially become licensed electricians in Oklahoma. They may continue to grow their careers by joining professional organizations, acquiring credentials, and participating in continuing education courses.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
The Oklahoma Construction and Industries Board oversees licensing affairs and sets requirements for electricians in Oklahoma. Currently, electricians must have a license to work in the state.
The basic licensing category is the journeyman license. Before candidates can qualify for a journeyman license, they must have already followed the steps highlighted above.
In Oklahoma, there are two categories of journeyman license: the Unlimited Electrical Journeyman License and the Residential Electrical Journeyman License.
Candidates pursuing the unlimited license must acquire 8,000 hours of experience, of which 2,000 hours can be received in the classroom. Those pursuing the residential license must acquire 4,000 hours of experience, of which 1,000 can be spent in the classroom.
Journeyman electricians in Oklahoma with at least 8,000 hours of experience may go on to pursue an electrical contractor license.
Top Electrician Schools in Oklahoma
Aspiring electricians in Oklahoma may consider the following schools and programs for their education.
Moore Norman Technology Center
Norman, OK Campus Only
Moore Norman Technology Center has a high-quality certificate program in electrical technology to introduce students to the electrical industry. The program is hands-on and boasts excellent instructors.
Tuition
$2,850 - $3,375Contact
(405) 801-5000
dustin.hamer@mntc.edu
Oklahoma State University
Oklahoma City, OK Campus Only
Oklahoma State University's programs for future electricians include an associate degree in power transmission and distribution and a certificate program in the same area.
Tuition
$129 - $241 per CreditContact
(405) 945-3362
terry.clinefelter@okstate.edu
OSU Institute of Technology
Okmulgee, OK Campus Only
OSU Institute of Technology offers an Associate Degree program in Electrical Electronics Technology that can be completed in 24 months and offers internship opportunities.
Tuition
$192 per CreditContact
(918) 293-3817
information@okstate.edu
Explore electrician schools in Oklahoma by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a positive growth trajectory for electrical technology in the upcoming decade and beyond. The specific figure provided by the bureau is a 6% annual growth until 2032, which will see several thousands of jobs open up.
This projection holds in Oklahoma as it does elsewhere in the country.
The average salary electricians in the state can expect depends on their category, based on experience, credentials, specialty areas, and location.
The highest-paid in the state manage an annual average salary of $122,314, while the lowest-paid may expect an annual average salary of $26,810. The midpoint earners can look forward to taking home an annual average salary of $122,314.
As for location, Shawnee and Pryor are the highest-paying destinations for working as an electrician in Oklahoma. Professionals here take home annual average salaries of $66,704 and $62,235 respectively.
Electricians in Oklahoma City make around $58,727 per year.