Best Electrician Schools in Tennessee

If you want to become an electrician in Tennessee, your first step is to get the right training. Employers and clients expect you to have the skills to work safely and meet state code. The fastest way to learn these skills is to attend a good electrician school. The right program will prepare you for licensing and help you find hands-on experience.

This guide will walk you through some of the top electrician schools in Tennessee, along with what you need to know about the state’s licensing process.

Tennessee Electrician Licensing Basics

Before you invest in training, you should understand the state’s requirements.

In Tennessee, the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors regulates electricians. Licensing in the state is broken down into different categories, such as Limited Licensed Electrician (LLE), Journeyman, or full Electrical Contractor.

Tennessee law requires electricians performing work over 5,000 (total project cost) to hold a state contractor’s license with the electrical classification. Smaller-scale electrical work may require a local license, depending on the county or city. Always check local ordinances before starting work.

To work legally and advance your career, you’ll likely follow this path:

Steps to Become a Licensed Electrician in Tennessee

1. Get proper training – Complete an electrical trade school program or apprenticeship.
2. Gain work experience – Most licenses require on-the-job hours under a licensed electrician.
3. Apply for the appropriate license – Submit an application and exam fees to the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors or local licensing office.
4. Pass the exam – Show your knowledge of the National Electrical Code, safety procedures, and Tennessee building codes.
5. Stay current – Renew your license as required and complete continuing education if applicable.

For full requirements, see the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors’ website: https://www.tn.gov/commerce.

Best Electrician Schools in Tennessee

The schools below are known for strong training programs, industry connections, and helping graduates start apprenticeships or entry-level jobs.

1. Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT)

Locations: Multiple across the state
Programs: Industrial Electricity, Electrical Systems Technology
Length: Varies (typically 12–20 months)

Why choose TCAT:

• Hands-on lab work with industry-grade tools
• Multiple campuses across Tennessee for convenience
• Prepares you for entry-level employment and further apprenticeships

Website: https://tcat.edu

2. Chattanooga State Community College

Location: Chattanooga
Programs: Electrical/Electronics Technology A.A.S.
Length: 2 years (Associate Degree)

Why choose Chattanooga State:

• Deep foundation in both electrical theory and applied skills
• Options for specialization
• Career services to help secure apprenticeships

Website: https://www.chattanoogastate.edu

3. Nashville State Community College

Location: Nashville
Programs: Electrical Engineering Technology A.A.S. (with transferable credits to certain universities)
Length: 2 years

Why choose Nashville State:

• Combines academic coursework with hands-on electrical work
• Flexible scheduling, including evening courses
• Network connections in the Nashville area

Website: https://www.nscc.edu

4. Remington College – Nashville Campus

Location: Nashville
Programs: Diploma in Electrical Systems Technician
Length: About 12 months

Why choose Remington College:

• Focuses on preparing students quickly for the workforce
• Practical skills training for residential, commercial, and industrial work
• Small class sizes for better instructor interaction

Website: https://www.remingtoncollege.edu

5. Northeast State Community College

Location: Blountville
Programs: Electrical Technology Certificate and A.A.S. degree
Length: Certificate (12 months), A.A.S. (2 years)

Why choose Northeast State:

• Strong ties to local employers in East Tennessee
• Easy transfer path for advanced degrees if desired
• Day and evening classes

Website: https://www.northeaststate.edu

Comparing Training Options

Choosing the Right Program

When picking your school, here are some key points to consider:

• Location – Choose a campus within reasonable commuting distance or one offering online theory courses.
• Program length – Decide between a short diploma program to get working faster or an associate degree for a broader education.
• Hands-on training – Ensure the school’s labs simulate real job conditions.
• Industry partnerships – Look for programs with strong apprenticeship placement rates.
• Accreditation – Make sure the school is accredited by a recognized body.

Apprenticeships in Tennessee

Completing a trade school program is only part of the process. Most electricians complete an apprenticeship to get the required work hours.

Common sources for apprenticeships include:

• Local union halls of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW)
• Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) chapters
• Employers who partner with community college programs

The IEC of the Mid-South and IBEW Local 429 both offer apprenticeship programs in Tennessee.

Safety and Code Knowledge

Electrical work always carries risk. Your training should cover:

• OSHA safety standards
• National Electrical Code (NEC) updates
• Tennessee-specific building codes

Working without the proper license or training can result in fines and legal penalties. Always follow state and local regulations.

Final Thoughts and Next Steps

If you want to start a career as an electrician in Tennessee, the smartest move is to pick a solid training program now. Each of the schools listed above can help you build skills, prepare for the licensing exam, and connect with employers.

Here’s what you should do next:

1. Review each school’s program details and location.
2. Contact admissions offices to ask about start dates, tuition, and entry requirements.
3. Confirm the program meets state requirements for licensing.
4. Plan for your apprenticeship and work experience hours early.

With the right training and a clear plan, you can build a stable, hands-on career that keeps Tennessee running.

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