*This is a G3 Program
Program Code: 221-706-01 , CIP Code: 46-0302
Program Head: Bryan Smith, (540) 863-2893, bsmith@mgcc.edu
Purpose: The Electrical Wiring Fundamentals program is designed to prepare individuals for entry level positions or advancement opportunities in the electrical wiring field. Electricians are skilled workers who are responsible for the construction, repair, maintenance, alteration or removal of electrical systems in accordance with the National Electrical Code (and other state and local codes). This program is designed to prepare individuals for a broad
range of employment opportunities in the field of electrical construction and industrial maintenance. The curriculum provides preparation for the journeyman electrical exam. For those interested, credits earned in this program may also be applied toward the college’s Associate of Applied Science degree in Technical Studies/Electrical and Instrumentation Technology.
Admission Requirements: Students who meet the admission requirements to the College are eligible for enrollment into the program. Individuals are expected to be proficient in basic English, mathematics and reading. Appropriate developmental courses are available for those who need to update their skills.
Program Description: Nearly all residential and commercial buildings have electrical power, lighting, communications and control systems that must be properly installed, maintained and upgraded throughout their lifetime by qualified, competent electricians and technicians. Also, modern manufacturing facilities often utilize complex production systems involving the coordinated interaction of electrical, electronic, mechanical and computer components and devices. To ensure the safety of the public, state and local governments require that electrical power andequipment installations be performed and maintained by appropriately trained, experienced and licensed
personnel. Electrical licensing in Virginia is regulated by the Virginia Board of Contractors/Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR). Licensing is available at the Journeyman, Master and Contractor levels. One of the pathways to journeyman electrical licensure requires 240 clock hours of formal training and four years work experience before taking the journeyman electrical exam.
Residential electricians and (commercial) inside electricians are examples of such types of workers. Residential electricians install wiring and troubleshoot electrical problems in people’s homes. Inside electricians install
wiring and troubleshoot electrical problems in commercial buildings, and may also install, maintain and repair large motors, equipment, and control systems in businesses and factories.
Employment Outlook: Possible job titles include, but are not limited to, residential electrician, inside electrician, commercial electrician, industrial electrician, maintenance electrician, and journeyman electrician.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics has projected that employment of electricians will grow 20 percent from 2012 to 2022. This is far above the projected national overall average occupations growth of 11 percent for the same time period.
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