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If you want to work as an electrician in Maine, the first step is solid training. The right school will give you the hands-on skills and classroom hours you need for licensing. Maine requires electricians to complete approved education and an apprenticeship before applying for a license. Choosing a school that meets these requirements is critical.
In this guide, I'll walk you through some of the best electrician schools in Maine, what to look for in a program, and how to get licensed.
How Electrician Licensing Works in Maine
In Maine, all electricians must be licensed through the Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation.
Maine requires completion of an approved training program and documented work experience before you can test for licensing.
Source: Maine Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation
The main license types are:
- Apprentice Electrician - Entry-level registration to work under a licensed electrician while completing training.
- Journeyman Electrician - Requires education, work experience, and passing the state exam.
- Master Electrician - Requires additional experience as a journeyman.
Steps to Become a Licensed Electrician in Maine
- Enroll in an approved electrical program at a technical school or community college.
- Register as an apprentice with the state.
- Complete required on-the-job hours under a licensed electrician.
- Pass the journeyman exam after meeting education and hour requirements.
- Gain additional experience and apply for master status if desired.
What to Look for in a Maine Electrician School
When comparing programs, check for:
- State Approval - Must be recognized by Maine licensing authorities.
- Hands-On Labs - Practical, shop-based training on real equipment.
- Qualified Instructors - Licensed electricians with industry experience.
- Flexible Scheduling - Night or weekend classes for working students.
- Apprenticeship Connections - Partnerships that help secure job placements.
Top Electrician Schools in Maine
Here are some of the strongest options for electrical training in the state. Always contact the school directly for current details.
1. Eastern Maine Community College - Bangor
- Program: Electrical and Automation Technology
- Format: Day classes with hands-on lab work
- Highlights: Strong focus on industrial and residential wiring, PLCs, and motor controls.
- Website: emcc.edu
2. Southern Maine Community College - South Portland
- Program: Electrical Engineering Technologies - Electric Power Technology
- Format: Combines classroom theory with real-world lab work
- Highlights: Prepares students for a variety of electrical trade roles; good industry networking.
- Website: smccme.edu
3. Kennebec Valley Community College - Fairfield
- Program: Electrical Technology
- Format: On-campus program with extensive hands-on practice
- Highlights: Covers residential, commercial, and industrial systems.
- Website: kvcc.me.edu
4. Northern Maine Community College - Presque Isle
- Program: Electrical Construction and Maintenance
- Format: Traditional on-campus labs and coursework
- Highlights: Emphasis on safety, NEC code compliance, and working with a variety of electrical systems.
- Website: nmcc.edu
5. Washington County Community College - Calais
- Program: Electrical Technology
- Format: Small class sizes, hands-on projects
- Highlights: Focus on both trade skills and employability.
- Website: wccc.me.edu
Training Program Lengths
Most Maine electrical trade programs take one to two years to complete, depending on diploma or degree track.
| Program Type | Typical Length | Includes Hands-On Lab? |
| Certificate/Diploma | 9-12 months | Yes |
| Associate Degree | 2 years | Yes |
Maine Electrician License Education Requirements
Below is a simplified summary from Maine's licensing board:
| License Type | Education Requirement |
| Apprentice | Enrollment in approved program |
| Journeyman | 576 classroom hours + 8,000 work hours |
| Master | Journeyman license + 4,000 additional work hours |
Note: Classroom hours must be from an approved program or apprenticeship school.
Tips for Succeeding in Electrician Training
- Stay current with NEC updates - Exams are based on the latest codes.
- Develop problem-solving skills - A lot of the work involves troubleshooting.
- Practice safety habits early - Employers look for electricians with excellent safety records.
- Network with instructors and peers - This can lead to job opportunities.
Next Steps
If you're ready to start your electrician career in Maine:
- Review the schools listed above.
- Contact at least two programs to compare schedules and costs.
- Register as an apprentice when you enroll.
- Keep track of all classroom and work hours for your license application.
The work is hands-on and requires attention to detail, but a good training program gives you a clear path from the classroom to a licensed trade career.
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