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If you want to become an electrician in Colorado, your choice of school matters. You need training that meets state licensing requirements and prepares you for real work in the field. Here's a clear guide to the top schools and what to expect from your training.
How to Become a Licensed Electrician in Colorado
Colorado requires electricians to be licensed through the Colorado State Electrical Board. Before you can take the licensing exam, you need to complete approved education and hands-on work experience.
The main steps to becoming licensed are:
- Enroll in an approved electrician training program or apprenticeship.
- Complete required hours of classroom instruction and supervised work.
- Apply for the licensing exam with the state board.
- Pass the test to earn your license.
- Keep your license current with continuing education.
Colorado licensing rule: To be eligible for the residential wireman or journeyman license, you must complete 4,000-8,000 hours of verified electrical work experience, depending on the license type.
Source: Colorado State Electrical Board
Training Options in Colorado
Electrician training in Colorado comes in two main forms:
- Technical or trade schools with classroom and lab training
- Apprenticeships through unions or independent programs
Many electricians combine both-starting with school to build fundamentals, then joining a formal apprenticeship.
Best Electrician Schools in Colorado
Here are some of the strongest options for electrical training in the state. Always confirm details directly with the school before enrolling.
1. Emily Griffith Technical College - Denver
- Program: Electrical Construction
- Length: About 9 months full-time
- Details: Combination of electrical theory, blueprint reading, and hands-on lab work. Prepares you for entry-level positions or apprenticeships.
- Website: Emily Griffith Technical College
- Program: Electrical Apprenticeship
- Length: 4 years (part-time while working)
- Details: Works with major apprenticeship programs in the Denver area. Classes are scheduled around the workday.
- Website: Red Rocks Community College
3. Pickens Technical College - Aurora
- Program: Construction Electricity
- Length: 2 semesters
- Details: Covers wiring, conduit bending, electrical code, and safety. Strong focus on preparing students for industry certifications.
- Website: Pickens Technical College
4. Independent Electrical Contractors Rocky Mountain (IECRM) - Denver
- Program: Four-Year Electrical Apprenticeship
- Length: 4 years, work plus one night of class per week
- Details: NCCER-accredited, combines paid on-the-job training with classroom learning.
- Website: IECRM
- Program: Electrical Systems Technology
- Length: Certificate and associate degree options
- Details: Focuses on both residential and commercial wiring. Prepares students for entry into apprenticeships.
- Website: Pueblo Community College
6. International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 68 - Denver
- Program: Electrical Apprenticeship (Joint Apprenticeship & Training Committee)
- Length: 5 years, includes paid work and night classes
- Details: Union-based program with strong wage and benefits structure during training.
- Website: Denver JATC
Program Comparison
| School/Program | Length | Type of Training | Apprenticeship Included? |
| Emily Griffith Technical College | ~9 months | Classroom/Lab | No |
| Red Rocks Community College | 4 years | Evening Classes | Yes |
| Pickens Technical College | 1 year | Classroom/Lab | No |
| IECRM | 4 years | Evening Classes + Work | Yes |
| Pueblo Community College | 1-2 years | Degree/Certificate | No |
| IBEW Local 68 JATC | 5 years | Night Classes + Paid Work | Yes |
What to Look for in a School
Before you choose a program, check for these qualities:
- Accreditation and state recognition
- Partnership with local electrical companies
- Instructors with industry experience
- Updated lab equipment and materials
- Support for job placement or apprenticeships
Safety and Code Training
Electrical work carries serious risks. Your school should teach:
- OSHA safety standards
- National Electrical Code (NEC)
- Proper use of tools and meters
- Lockout/tagout procedures
Safety reminder: Electrical training should always follow OSHA guidelines for personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent shock and arc flash injuries.
Source: OSHA
Next Steps
- Research the programs listed above.
- Contact admissions offices to confirm tuition, schedules, and start dates.
- Decide on a path-full-time school, apprenticeship, or both.
- Apply early to secure your spot.
Choosing the right school is the first big move toward your career as an electrician in Colorado. Start with state-approved training, put in your hours, and you'll have a clear path to your license and a long-term future in the trade.
Sources:
Colorado State Electrical Board
OSHA - Electrical Safety
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