You may be wondering what kind of career you can pursue that would come with benefits like job security and a great salary.
Well, look no further!
Electricians in Colorado can expect an abundance of career growth opportunities on top of a stable income and a consistent workload.
If that interests you, then keep reading to find out how you can become an electrician in the state of Colorado!
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Electrician Job Duties and Skills in Colorado
The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that electricians should be able to do the following:
- Read blueprints or technical diagrams
- Install and maintain wiring, control, and lighting systems
- Inspect electrical components, such as transformers and circuit breakers
- Identify electrical problems using a variety of testing devices
- Follow state and local building regulations based on the National Electrical Code
And more.
Electricians should also possess the following skills:
- Customer service
- Communication
- Time management
- Adaptability
- Attention to detail
You’ll need to possess a combination of hard and soft skills in order to thrive in this career path!
How to Become an Electrician in Colorado
Becoming an electrician in Colorado isn’t as difficult as it may seem, but you’ll need to make sure to follow all the appropriate protocols.
Failure to meet all the necessary requirements will mean not being able to obtain your electrical license–but don’t worry.
As long as you make sure to follow the guidelines, you’ll be fine.
So, read the steps down below to find out how to officially become an electrician!
Meet The Requirements
To be eligible for an electrical license in Colorado, you must be 18 years old or older.
You must also have a high school diploma or the equivalent.
Make sure you meet these specifications before applying to take the licensing exam!
Complete Your Classroom Hours
You have to make sure you complete 24 classroom hours before you can apply for your electrical license in Colorado.
Be sure you meet this requirement, or you will be unable to get your license!
Complete Your Training
If you do not gain 8,000 hours of on-the-job work experience, you won’t be eligible to receive an electrical license in Colorado.
You can gain all the required hours by participating in an apprenticeship program.
You can also gain working hours while attending some vocational or technical schools and community colleges.
Get Your License
Once you’re sure you’ve met all the requirements, you can apply for your electrical license!
To do this, you need to take and pass the electrical exam.
This exam will be 90 questions.
If you pass the exam, you can get your license!
Training Programs for Electricians in Colorado
Here are some institutions in Colorado that offer electrical training programs.
Emily Griffith Technical College
Emily Griffith Technical College has partnered with a number of different unions and trade organizations to offer apprenticeship programs.
In this program, “You’ll gain experience through on-the-job training and coursework provided by apprenticeship partners.
You’ll learn to install electrical wiring, fixtures and electrical apparatus, as well as install and repair instrumentation and process controls, solar, and photovoltaic systems, and wind turbines.
And you can train as a residential or industrial electrician.”
Denver Joint Electrical Apprenticeship
The Denver Joint Electrical Apprenticeship is sponsored by The National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) and the Local Union #68 of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW).
This sponsorship “Allows apprentices the opportunity to earn wages and benefits while they learn the skills needed to be successful in the electrical industry.”
The apprenticeship is a great option for those who are particularly interested in working within the residential or telecommunications fields.
Colorado Mesa University Tech
Colorado Mesa University Tech offers a program that is great for those who are particularly interested in working in construction.
The program offers plenty of hands-on experience and caters to diverse learning styles.
Coloradomesa.edu states, “The Construction Electrical program at CMU Tech is designed to prepare students for a wide range of opportunities in the construction electrical field.
The curriculum includes coursework in residential, commercial and industrial wiring. Students will also learn about installations, codes, safety, tools, calculations, and print reading.
As a skills-based trade, construction electrical allows graduates to do meaningful work and earn a great living.”
The program also ensures that class sizes will consistently remain small so all students receive adequate instruction and all the extra attention they may need while learning.
Once finished with the program, students can expect to earn a Construction Electrical Associate of Applied Science Degree or a Construction Electrical Certificate.
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Emily Griffith Technical College | 1860 Lincoln Street, Denver, Colorado 80203 |
| Denver Joint Electrical Apprenticeship | 5610 Logan St, Denver, CO 80216 |
| Colorado Mesa University Tech | 2508 Blichmann Avenue, Grand Junction, CO 81505 |
Electrician Salaries in Colorado
Electricians in Colorado can make a very pretty penny!
Your earnings as an electrician in Colorado will vary.
The amount you make depends on several different factors, such as your knowledge, experience, and place of residence.
Check the chart below to see how earnings may vary depending on city.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Denver | $66,324 |
| Colorado Springs | $64,953 |
| Aurora | $66,280 |
| Greeley | $64,149 |
| Fort Collins | $64,007 |
| Arvada | $66,324 |
| Pueblo | $61,240 |
| Westminster | $66,324 |
| Boulder | $66,918 |
| Thornton | $66,324 |
Regional Salary in Colorado
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boulder, CO | 640 | $60,130 | $28.91 | $81,950 | $38,640 |
| Colorado Springs, CO | 1,440 | $57,510 | $27.65 | $80,150 | $35,070 |
| Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, CO | 9,720 | $60,440 | $29.06 | $82,030 | $37,550 |
| Fort Collins, CO | 870 | $58,560 | $28.15 | $79,640 | $35,570 |
| Grand Junction, CO | 350 | $54,590 | $26.25 | $75,710 | $35,610 |
| Greeley, CO | 1,030 | $58,080 | $27.92 | $81,840 | $37,170 |
| Pueblo, CO | 490 | $57,280 | $27.54 | $83,610 | $36,130 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Colorado need electricians?
Yes, Colorado is in need of electricians!
In fact, the electrical field is predicted to grow by more than 20% within the next decade, according to the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment.
What is the hourly rate for electricians in Colorado?
Electricians in Colorado make between $20 to $40 an hour, on average.
Can an apprentice electrician work alone in Colorado?
No.
Apprentices are required by law to work under the supervision of a licensed electrician at all times in Colorado.
Electrician Info by State
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