IEC Texas Gulf Coast Electrician Program

The apprenticeship is a four-year program, combining 8000 hours of on-the-job training with 576 classroom hours. Apprentices are full-time employees working for IEC member contractors, which means students gain real-world experience from day one. Typically, apprentices work a standard full-time schedule, 7 AM to 3:30 PM, Monday through Friday, and attend classes once a week in the evening (5 PM to 9 PM) for 39 weeks out of the year.

The program is structured to provide both practical skills and theoretical instruction. The classes cover topics such as electrical theory, safety practices, conduit bending, wiring systems, grounding and bonding, and the National Electrical Code (NEC), preparing students for both state licensing exams and successful careers in the industry.

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• Be at least 18 years of age.
• Have dependable transportation, as public transit can limit job opportunities.
• Be employed by an IEC member contractor (IEC will assist in scheduling interviews but does not guarantee employment).
• Hold a valid Texas Apprentice Electrician License, which can be obtained through the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR).

Additionally, all applicants must demonstrate proficiency in algebra, as electrical work involves significant mathematical calculations.

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The total cost of the program is $6,880, which is broken down into $860 per semester, with two semesters per school year. The program is competitively priced, and many employers cover part or all of the tuition for their apprentices. For veterans, the program is eligible for VA benefits, allowing qualifying students to receive financial support while attending the apprenticeship.

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The program runs over four years, with students required to work full-time while attending evening classes once a week. This schedule is designed to ensure apprentices can build their skills both in the field and in the classroom simultaneously. By the end of the program, students will have completed the necessary training and experience to sit for the Journeyman Electrician Exam.

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Although the IEC Texas Gulf Coast program cannot guarantee employment, it actively assists apprentices in finding jobs through its network of IEC member contractors. The program offers job placement services, helping students secure positions with local contractors who participate in the apprenticeship. Apprentices are paid for their work, and their wages increase progressively as they advance through the program and gain more experience.

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The instructors at IEC Texas Gulf Coast are highly experienced, many of whom are journeyman or master electricians themselves. These instructors not only bring years of industry experience but also undergo additional training to ensure they are well-prepared to teach and mentor apprentices. The real-world knowledge shared by these professionals provides students with a deep understanding of the electrical trade, making the learning experience both practical and engaging.

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This program is accredited by the U.S. Department of Labor and follows the guidelines of the National Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (NJATC). Graduates from this apprenticeship receive credentials recognized nationwide, providing them with career mobility across the country. In addition to earning state licensure, graduates are also eligible for up to 50 college credits through the American Council on Education (ACE), offering them the opportunity to continue their education and pursue higher degrees if desired.

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Upon completing the four-year program, graduates will be prepared to take the Texas Journeyman Electrician exam. The skills and knowledge gained during the apprenticeship allow them to pursue various career paths, including roles as journeymen electricians, project managers, or even business owners. With the increasing demand for skilled electricians, particularly in a growing city like Houston, graduates can expect excellent job opportunities and competitive wages.

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