Anyone looking to start a career in a highly appealing profession that doesn’t just have a rich history but is also set to dominate across the upcoming decade would be well-advised to start a career as an electrician.
Professionals in this field will always be called upon to work on electrical systems in both residential and commercial settings, and they will be needed to oversee projects in automation and smart systems, which are the technology of the future.
Candidates must follow a few steps to start their electrician careers in Utah. A few training programs also give candidates an edge throughout their careers.
We have explored these issues below while shedding light on other important process aspects, such as certification/licensing procedures and salary projections.
How to Become an Electrician in Utah
Successful electricians in Utah often start their careers by choosing among the training options below.
Training Options
All aspiring electricians in Utah are expected to receive on-the-job training. The difference lies in whether candidates complement their on-the-job training with academic training. The requirements for both options are listed below
On-the-Job Training Only
Candidates who want to participate in on-the-job training in Utah have many options. They may, for example, choose union apprenticeship programs offered by the popular IBEW local unions.
The state requires those who would like to receive only this form of training to have at least 8,000 hours of work experience.
On-the-Job & Academic Training
The requirements are quite different for those who would like to receive job training and earn a degree from an academic institution. Instead of 8,000 hours of work experience, they only need 4,000 hours of training.
They will then complement this with 2 years of education from a trade school.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
Prospective electricians in Utah must receive a license before they can start working professionally. They may apply to the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing, which oversees licensure affairs for state electricians.
The steps above (including having 4,000 hours of on-the-job training along with education from a trade school or 8,000 hours of work experience without academic education) are the fundamental requirements. Afterward, candidates may proceed to send an official application and pass the journeyman licensing exam.
The exam includes sections on the national electrical code, electrical theories, and a practical aspect. To renew their license, Journeyman license holders must also complete 16 hours of continuing education every two years.
Once they have 4 years of experience as a licensed journeyman electrician in the state, they may apply for a master’s license.
Top Electrician Schools in Utah
Utah offers the following schools and programs for aspiring electricians in the state.
Davis Technical College
Kaysville, UT Campus Only
Davis Technical College offers a four-year program for future electricians. This program combines classroom and apprenticeship training and is known for relatively affordable tuition.
Tuition
$0 - $95 per CreditContact
(801) 593-2040
admissions@davistech.edu
Mountainland Technical College
Orem, UT Campus Only
Mountainland Technical College boasts an 82% completion rate and 100% graduate placement in its 4-year electrical apprenticeship program. Busy students may take evening classes but should be prepared to spend more time in training.
Tuition
$2,880 per ProgramContact
(801) 753-6282
thomas.stromberg@mtec.edu
Bridgerland Technical College
Logan, UT Campus Only
Lastly, aspiring electricians in Utah may consider Bridgerland Technical College for a top-class education. They can look forward to a serene learning environment and hands-on training.
Tuition
$2,570 per ProgramContact
(435) 753-6780
clara.call@btech.edu
Explore electrician schools in Utah by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
Factors such as experience, credentials, specialty, and capacity of employment can help electricians in Utah earn as much as $111,279. This will make them fall among the highest-paid in the top 10% of the state.
Naturally, electricians just starting their careers in the state may still need to be at this level and may fall among the lowest-paid or the average earners. Those in the average earning category manage an annual average salary of $69,745, while those among the lowest-paid can still expect an annual average salary of $43,714.
Location also plays a role in helping professionals maximize their salaries. The highest-paying cities for electricians in Utah include Provo, with an annual average salary of $79,224; Saint George, with an annual average salary of $72,978; West Valley City, with an annual average salary of $72,725; and Salt Lake City, with an annual average salary of $68,408.
The job outlook for the profession is also very positive, with thousands of openings expected to arise every year for the next 10 years at least.