Best Electrician Schools in Vermont

If you want to work as an electrician in Vermont, start with the right training program. The state requires licensed electricians to complete approved education and supervised work experience. Choosing the right school can make that process smoother and faster.

In this guide, you’ll find the top electrician schools in Vermont, what to look for in a program, and the steps to get your license.

How Electrician Licensing Works in Vermont

In Vermont, electricians must be licensed through the Vermont Department of Public Safety, Division of Fire Safety. There are several license types, but most new electricians start as apprentices.

“No person shall engage in the business of installing wires, conduits, apparatus, fixtures, or other appliances for carrying electricity… without first receiving a license.” — Vermont Statutes, Title 26, Chapter 15 ¹

Main license levels in Vermont:

1. Apprentice Electrician – You work under supervision while earning experience hours.
2. Journeyman Electrician – You can work independently after meeting training requirements.
3. Master Electrician – You can design systems, pull permits, and supervise jobs.

Steps to Become a Licensed Electrician in Vermont

Here’s the basic process:

1. Find an approved electrician training program. This can be through a trade school, community college, or union apprenticeship.
2. Register as an apprentice with the Vermont Department of Public Safety.
3. Complete required on-the-job training hours (usually 8,000 hours for a journeyman license, spread over 4 years).
4. Pass the state electrician exam for the journeyman level.
5. Continue to master level if desired, after additional experience and testing.

Tip: Vermont allows classroom training hours to count toward your total required hours.

Best Electrician Schools & Programs in Vermont

Below are some of the top programs that meet Vermont’s licensing education requirements. Always confirm with the state licensing board before enrolling.

1. Vermont Technical College – Electrical Engineering Technology

• Location: Randolph Center, VT
• Program Type: Associate Degree
• Length: 2 years full-time
• Details: Strong focus on electrical theory, safety, and code. Includes lab work and applied projects that prepare you for both residential and industrial wiring.
• Website: https://www.vtc.edu/

2. Center for Technology, Essex – Electrical Technology Program

• Location: Essex Junction, VT
• Program Type: Secondary and Adult Technical Education
• Length: 1-2 years
• Details: Offers hands-on training for high school students and adult learners. Covers wiring, circuit testing, and NEC compliance.
• Website: https://www.ctecvt.org/

3. Stafford Technical Center – Electrical and Plumbing Program

• Location: Rutland, VT
• Program Type: Career and Technical Education
• Length: Varies
• Details: Combines electrical and plumbing skills, great for those who want broader building trade knowledge. NEC instruction is included.
• Website: https://www.staffordonline.org/

4. River Valley Technical Center – Electrical Technology

• Location: Springfield, VT
• Program Type: Technical Certificate
• Length: Typically 2 years for high school programs
• Details: Emphasizes safety, residential wiring, and basic electrical troubleshooting. Good entry point for apprenticeships.
• Website: https://www.rvtc.org/

5. North Country Career Center – Electrical Technology

• Location: Newport, VT
• Program Type: Career and Technical Education
• Length: 2 years (high school program) or adult learning schedule
• Details: Practical skills in wiring systems and equipment testing. NEC and OSHA safety covered.
• Website: https://nc3vt.org/

Comparing Electrician Training Programs in Vermont

Questions to Ask a School Before Enrolling:

• Is the program recognized by the Vermont Department of Public Safety?
• Does it help with apprenticeship placement?
• How much of the training counts toward required work hours?
• Are instructors licensed electricians in Vermont?
• What’s the graduation and job placement rate?

Apprenticeship Options in Vermont

Besides classroom programs, you can train through an apprenticeship. This combines paid work with structured learning.

Common apprenticeship providers:

• IBEW Local 300 – based in South Burlington, offers union apprenticeship training.
• Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) affiliates – non-union training.
• Large electrical contractors who directly sponsor apprentices.

Vermont Electrician Exam & Continuing Education

Once you complete your hours, you must take and pass the Vermont journeyman exam. This is a closed-book test based on the National Electrical Code and Vermont amendments.

After passing:

• You must keep your license in good standing with continuing education.
• Vermont requires regular NEC update courses.

Safety & Compliance

Electrical work can be dangerous. Vermont strictly enforces safety codes, inspections, and licensing.

“All electrical installations shall be in accordance with the National Electrical Code as adopted and amended by the Board.” — Division of Fire Safety, Electrical Safety Rules ¹

Always follow OSHA safety standards on job sites, wear required PPE, and verify permits before starting any electrical work.

Final Thoughts

If you want to become an electrician in Vermont, your first step is finding a state-approved training program. The schools listed above have a track record of preparing students for apprenticeships and licensing.

Here’s what to do next:

1. Contact one or two schools that interest you.
2. Ask how their training fits into Vermont’s licensing requirements.
3. Apply and register as an apprentice with the state.
4. Keep accurate records of your hours and training.

With the right training and experience, you’ll qualify to work as a licensed electrician and build a stable career in the trade.

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