Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) is a contractor’s association with 52 chapters representing about 80,000 electric workers and over 3,600 company members in the U.S. The IEC has expanded to include almost 14,000 individuals who are in the process of becoming successful electric workers through the apprenticeship program. Furthermore, the IEC offers additional programs as either a steppingstone or a supplement to the apprenticeship program.

These are the training programs and courses offered by the IEC designed to build prominent and productive electric workers:

IEC Apprenticeship Program

The IEC Apprenticeship Program provides the opportunity for aspiring electrical workers to gain experience in the industry while working under and learning from skilled experts.

Benefits include:

• Get paid to learn with on-the-job training during the day and classroom instruction at night.
• Over 70 training locations across the U.S. so that you can find training near you that fits your lifestyle.
• Recognition by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Apprenticeship & Training.
• Earn 41 college credits toward your degree.
• Program costs covered by employer or state funding = no student loans!
  
  

Professional Electricians Program

The Professional Electricians Program is great for individuals who already have a lot of experience but still need the professional training and certifications to build their credibility. It consists of nine courses that are designed to help experienced workers gain professional knowledge in a shorter time frame than those who choose to enroll in the four-year Electrical Apprenticeship Program.

Each course is taught by an industry professional with a supplemental textbook. Due to the students’ experience level, the course will move much faster than that of the apprenticeship program.

Electrical and Systems Training Series

The Electrical and Systems Training Series (ESTS) program is intended to provide a refresher of industry standards and procedures for experienced electricians. The ESTS program is offered for various levels. You can take all of the course levels if you’d like, or you can enroll in just a few. Note that some of the courses have required prerequisites must be fulfilled before completing a module.

New Worker Program

The New Worker Program offered by the IEC is designed to prepare an apprentice for their first hands-on project on a job site. The program is comprised of various two-to-three-hour long modules focused on interactive learning. Students will receive a certificate upon completing modules, each of which consists of a short PowerPoint lecture and hands-on or group activities. Though it is not a prerequisite for the IEC Apprenticeship Program, it is considered a precursor as it is a great way to transition into full apprenticeship.

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The IEC is dedicated to providing the resources necessary to create a strong workforce and boost the electric industry. Some of the most common careers pursued by students who complete the IEC Apprenticeship and additional programs include:

• Apprentice Electrician
• Journeyman Electrician/Master Electrician
• Foreman
• Field Superintendent
• Safety Manager
• Project Management
• Estimating
• Owner

Electricians are highly trained to work in homes, businesses, industrial sites and communities. This stable career choice requires skilled workers who have dedicated themselves to learning how these systems work and safely managing them. This knowledge will help you find work doing what you love and have a career that supports you and your family.

Trades.org wants to see you succeed in your career. We make it easy for your next customer to find you when we highlight your skills and reputation on your website, social media accounts and trade-specific profiles. We’ll help you develop the fulfilling business that provides for your family and gives you opportunities to advance throughout your career.