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June 20, 2023

What Topics Are Covered in Electrician Training?

electrician training topics

Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) accept students with no experience in electrical work. A high school diploma, GED or equivalent is enough to get you started. You may also need to pass a basic math test. Once enrolled, you’ll go through many hours of in-class and hands-on training. Our continuing education courses cover all skill levels. Here’s an overview of the topics you may learn in electrician training:

Electric and Power Distribution

Electrician training begins with the foundations of how electricity works, from its generation to distribution. The introductory course also covers national electrical codes and requirements for safety, wiring, grounding, and installing electrical equipment. Students can discover the different requirements for residential, commercial, and industrial electrical work. The course also covers basic safety and OSHA standards and motor control fundamentals.

Basic Trade Math

IEC’s training includes basic math involving decimals, percentages, fractions, and conversions. Electricians use math to calculate various information, including how much wire to run an electrical conduit. Math is also used when converting power and determining safe specifications for electrical components. We focus on the principles and computations required to complete electrical jobs. Some calculations may involve higher-level math.

Safety Topics

We train our electricians on how to provide safety at all times. Some of the safety topics we train on include aerial lifts, confined spaces, asbestos awareness, drug-free workplace safety, and CPR. Our safety course also covers fall protection, first aid, OSHA 10, OSHA 30, and NFPA 70E safety standards. Students will understand shocks and arc flash effects and risk assessment, PPE selection, inspection and maintenance, and emergency response planning.

Hands-on Training

New students and apprentices will undergo hands-on training under a licensed electrician’s guidance. These practical courses allow students to apply their theoretical knowledge to solve real-world problems. Hands-on training involves visiting sites to provide electrician services to paying clients. Below are some of the subjects covered during such outings:

  • Using electrical tools like meters, levers, power tools, testers, pliers, wire strippers, screwdrivers, sawzalls, and wire cutters.
  • Handling electrical conductors, including how to install, maintain, and troubleshoot common problems.
  • Installing electrical components like sockets, circuit breakers, and light fixtures on commercial, residential, and industrial sites.
  • Pulling electrical wires through walls during construction and post-construction installations.
  • Reading blueprints/technical electrical diagrams and calculating electrical circuit quantities
  • Bending conduit and handling live wire safely.
  • Working on electrical sites independently and as part of a team.

Certified Electrician Training Programs in Cincinnati

Electrician courses cover various topics designed for students at different stages. Students can learn the different electrical job tasks required in this trade. Some may end up in manufacturing plants and factories, while others may work in residential homes, commercial property, and government jobs.

At IEC, we offer electrician training for beginners and those who need continuing education. Our facility takes in apprentices each year and trains them. At the end of the course, you can become a journeyman and can work in various firms. We offer certified training programs and electrical job placement in the Greater Cincinnati area.