People train in different ways to become commercial electricians. Community and technical colleges offer associate of applied science degrees as well as certificates that prepare students for entry-level work as an electrician. Additionally, many union-business-government partnerships offer apprenticeships programs mixing on-the-job training with classroom experience.
Earning an electrical associate degree can give students a leg up with employers. Most degree programs focus on coursework and hands-on experience in electrical codes, fundamentals and theory of electricity, and such specifics as fiber optics, electrical motors, programmable controllers, OSHA requirements and safety training.
Apprenticeship programs are comprehensive and qualify participants to do both maintenance and construction work. Apprenticeships usually last four years and require 2,000 hours in annual on-the-job training and 144 hours of classroom instruction in electrical theory and codes, safety, reading blueprints and first aid.
Almost every state requires all electricians to be licensed. Generally, a license requires passing a test that explores the candidate's knowledge of national and state electrical and building codes as well as electrical theory. The license must be renewed periodically, usually by taking another exam.