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Program Overview
Electricians install, connect, test and maintain electrical systems for a variety of purposes, including climate control, security and communications. The electricians use a variety of electrical equipment and apply appropriate techniques, plan wiring installation from blueprints, properly locate boxes and outlets, and test continuity of electrical circuits to ensure compatibility and safety of components following national electrical code and complying with state and local building codes. In addition to wiring a building’s electrical systems, electricians may install coaxial or fiber optic cable for computers and other telecommunications equipment.
Working Conditions
Electrical work can be indoors or outdoors. The work is sometimes physically strenuous requiring prolonged standing in cramped or uncomfortable positions. Electricians may work in dusty, dirty, hot and wet conditions, or in confined areas, ditches or other uncomfortable places. The working environment varies with each job and may include working on ladders and scaffolding. Electricians follow strict safety procedures to prevent injuries from electrical shock, falls and cuts.
Training
- 5-year training program
- 8,000 hours of on-the-job training
- 600 hours of paid related instruction
- Individual program requirements may vary by committee.
In the classroom, apprentices learn blueprint reading, electrical theory, electronics, mathematics, electrical code requirements, and safety and first aid practices.
Learn more from the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development.
Program Details
Electrical Construction Apprenticeship are offered at the Madison - Commercial Avenue campus.
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Program Courses
Here's a sample course sequence that shows how classes for full-time students are typically organized by semester.
Once you're admitted, your full curriculum and sequence—including any pre-requisites—is defined in your Degree Progress Report.
First Semester50-413-530Tech Electrical 1
This course provides foundational training in DC electrical theory, conduit fabrication, construction drawings, and introduces students to the National Electrical Code.4 creditsSecond Semester50-413-531Tech Electrical 2
This course builds on foundational skills with advanced study of the National Electrical Code and code related calculations and includes training on AC theory, AC systems, and transformers.4 creditsThird Semester50-413-532Tech Electrical 3
This course emphasizes electrical safety practices, fire alarm systems, and grounding and bonding in accordance with the National Electrical Code.2 creditsFourth Semester50-413-533Tech Electrical 4
This course provides instruction in transformer applications, test instruments, and rigging and signaling safety.2 creditsFifth Semester50-413-534Tech Electrical 5
This course provides training in building automation, motor theory, and motor control fundamentals.2 creditsSixth Semester50-413-535Tech Electrical 6
This course covers electrical code calculations, health care facility systems, lightning protection, and photovoltaic systems with continued emphasis on applying the National Electrical Code.2 creditsSeventh Semester50-413-570Tech Electrical 7
This course advances knowledge of the National Electrical Code through study of hazardous locations, power quality, and lighting systems.2 creditsEighth Semester50-413-571Tech Electrical 8
This course includes electrical code calculations, distributed generation, electric vehicle charging systems, and professional orientation.2 credits -
How to Apply
1. Apply through the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 159
Get started by submitting the Electrical (Construction) Apprenticeship application.
2. Secure an Apprenticeship Position
Once the committee approves you, you'll need to secure an apprenticeship position with a sponsoring employer. Think of it like applying for a job. You'll apply directly to employers who are hiring apprentices.
3. Apply to Madison College
After you secure an apprenticeship position, apply to the apprenticeship program at Madison College.
Application Dates
- Fall 2027 Application Open
- The application deadline is August 31, 2027
4. Complete the Apprenticeship Contract
Your sponsoring employer will work with the Department of Workforce Development (DWD) to complete the apprenticeship registration process.
5. Get Ready to Start Classes
Once Madison College receives your apprenticeship contract, you'll be admitted into the program and contacted with next steps.
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Career Outcomes
Madison College Electrician Apprenticeship graduates are prepared to:
- Install new wiring and repair old wiring.
- Install receptacles, lighting systems and fixtures.
- Plan and install raceway systems.
- Troubleshoot and repair electrical systems.
- Plan and initiate projects.
- Supervise journeymen and apprentices.
- Establish temporary power during construction.
- Establish power distribution within project.
- Establish grounding system.
- Install service to buildings and other structures.
- Provide power and controls to motors, HVAC and other equipment.
- Install fire alarm systems.
- Install and repair traffic signals, outdoor lighting and outdoor power feeders.
- Establish OSHA and customer safety requirements.
- Install instrumentation and process control systems, including energy management systems.
- Erect and assemble power generation equipment.
- Install security systems.
- Install, maintain and repair lighting protection systems.
- Install and repair telephone and data systems.
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Graduate Summary
Graduate Report Summary Overview
2023 2024 2025 Number of Program Graduates 54 21 39 Number of Surveys Sent Number of Surveys Returned Percent of Surveys Returned Available for Employment 0 0 0 Percent Available for Employment Not in Labor Market Percent Not in Labor Market Available for Employment
2023 2024 2025 Graduates Employed 0 0 0 Percent of Graduates Employed Employed in Related Occupation 0 0 0 Percent Employed in Related Occupation Employed in Unrelated Occupation 0 0 0 Percent Employed in Unrelated Occupation Employed - No Response 0 0 0 Percent Employed - No Response Seeking Employment 0 0 0 Percent Seeking Employment Reaction To Training at Madison College
2023 2024 2025 Student satisfaction Mean (Out of 4) 0 0 0 Number of Satisfaction Responses 0 0 0 Very Satisfied (4) 0 0 0 Percent Very Satisfied Satisfied (3) 0 0 0 Percent Satisfied Unsatisfied (2) 0 0 0 Percent Unsatisfied Very Unsatisfied (1) Percent Very Unsatisfied Primary Reason for Attending Madison College
2023 2024 2025 Number of Primary Reason Responses 0 0 0 Preparation for Getting a Job 0 0 0 Percent Preparation for Getting a Job Career Change 0 0 0 Percent Career Change Improvement of Existing Skills 0 0 0 Percent Improvement of Existing Skills Preparation for Further Education 0 0 0 Percent Preparation for Further Education Personal Interest 0 0 0 Percent Personal Interest Other 0 0 0 Percent Other When Employment was Obtained
2023 2024 2025 Number of When Employment Obtained Responses 0 0 0 Before Enrollment 0 0 0 Percent Before Enrollment While Attending the College 0 0 0 Percent While Attending the College After Training at the College 0 0 0 Percent After Training at the College Location of Employment (related and unrelated)
2023 2024 2025 Number of Employment Location Responses 0 0 0 In College District 0 0 0 Percent In College District In Wisconsin, Not in District 0 0 0 Percent of In Wisconsin Outside of Wisconsin 0 0 0 Percent Outside Wisconsin Employer Location Unknown 0 0 0 Percent Location Unknown Salary Trend 2023 2024 2025 Full Time Employment (Related Job) Full Time Salary Count Average Monthly Wage Average Hourly Wage Average Work Hours per Week Part Time Employment (Related Job) Part Time Salary Count Average Hourly Wage Average Work Hours per Week
