Best Electrician Schools in Montana

If you want to become an electrician in Montana, your first step is choosing the right training program.
The state requires professional training before you can get licensed, and the quality of your school matters.

How to Become an Electrician in Montana

Montana licenses electricians through the Montana State Electrical Board. To work legally, you’ll need to complete specific training and on-the-job hours.

Here’s the standard path:

1. Get formal training – through a technical college, trade school, or an apprenticeship.
2. Work under a licensed journeyman or master electrician to gain supervised experience.
3. Pass the Montana electrician licensing exam for your level (residential, journeyman, or master).
4. Keep your license current with approved continuing education.

Licensing Rule: According to the Montana Administrative Rules, you must complete a state-approved apprenticeship or at least 4,000–8,000 supervised hours depending on license type.

The type of license you want will determine how many hours you need.

Best Electrician Schools in Montana

Below are top-rated electrician training programs in Montana. These programs prepare you for entry-level work and help you meet state licensing requirements.

1. Montana State University – Northern (Havre, MT)

Program: Electrical Technology AAS
Length: 2 years full-time
Details: Hands-on training in wiring, troubleshooting, motor controls, and electrical code. Includes lab time and field equipment practice. Graduates are positioned to enter apprenticeships.
Website: https://www.msun.edu

2. Highlands College of Montana Tech (Butte, MT)

Program: Electrical Line Technician Certificate
Length: 1 year
Details: Focuses on electrical systems, safety procedures, and applied math. While geared toward line work, graduates often continue toward residential or industrial electrical apprenticeships.
Website: https://www.mtech.edu

3. Flathead Valley Community College (Kalispell, MT)

Program: Industrial Maintenance (with electrical component)
Length: 2 years
Details: Includes training in electrical maintenance, PLCs, and motor systems. Good option if you want a broader technical skillset.
Website: https://www.fvcc.edu

4. City College at Montana State University Billings

Program: AAS in Electrical Technology
Length: 2 years full-time
Details: Covers residential, commercial, and industrial wiring. Includes NEC (National Electrical Code) coursework and safety training.
Website: https://www.msubillings.edu/citycollege

5. IEC Rocky Mountain (serving Montana through partnerships)

Program: Electrical Apprenticeship
Length: 4 years (part-time while working)
Details: Combines jobsite training with online or evening classes. You can earn wages while working toward your journeyman license.
Website: https://www.ieci.org

Choosing the Right Program

When you compare schools, think about:

• Accreditation – Choose a program recognized by the Montana State Electrical Board.
• Cost and location – Factor in travel or housing if the program isn’t nearby.
• Class schedules – Some offer night or online courses if you’re working.
• Hands-on hours – The more real-world training, the better prepared you’ll be.

Electrical Apprenticeships in Montana

An apprenticeship gives you paid, supervised work experience while you study electrical theory. In Montana, you can find apprenticeships through:

• Local electrical contractors
• IEC Rocky Mountain partner employers
• Union programs (IBEW Local 233 – Helena)

Tip: Apprenticeships in Montana usually run 4 years, combining about 144 classroom hours per year with at least 8,000 job hours for journeyman licensing.

Getting Licensed in Montana

Here’s a breakdown of the general process:

1. Complete approved training through a school or apprenticeship.
2. Submit an application to the Montana State Electrical Board.
3. Schedule and pass the PSI licensing exam.
4. Receive your license and begin work with full credentials.

The official state licensing page with applications and requirements is here: Montana State Electrical Board.

Why Quality Training Matters

Electrical work has strict safety and code requirements. Quality training ensures:

• You work according to the National Electrical Code (NEC).
• You understand state-specific rules.
• You can pass licensing exams with confidence.
• You stay safe on the job.

Poor training can cost you time, money, and even your license.

Next Steps

If you’re ready to start:

1. Decide on school or apprenticeship as your first route.
2. Contact two or three programs from the list above.
3. Ask about start dates, costs, and required tools.
4. Apply early to secure your spot.

The sooner you start your training, the sooner you can start earning while learning.

Bottom line: Montana offers solid electrician training options through technical colleges, community colleges, and apprenticeships. Pick a program that fits your schedule, budget, and career goals, then follow the licensing steps closely. When you combine certified training with hands-on experience, you’ll be ready for a long and steady career in the trade.

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