Best Electrician Schools in Montana

If you want to work with your hands, earn a steady living, and have skills that are widely needed, becoming an electrician in Montana is a solid choice. The first step is getting the right training. In this guide, you’ll find the best electrician schools in the state, along with what it takes to get licensed.

How Electrician training works in Montana

Electricians in Montana must complete training before they can work independently. You either go through an apprenticeship or take formal trade school courses. Both paths combine classroom learning with hands-on experience.

The main goals of training are to teach you:

  • National Electrical Code (NEC) standards
  • Electrical theory and safety
  • Wiring, conduit bending, and installation
  • Troubleshooting and repair methods

You’ll also need to log supervised work hours before you can take the state licensing exam.

Montana Licensing Rule: The Montana Department of Labor & Industry requires at least 8,000 hours of practical experience for a journeyman electrician license, with a portion of those hours spent in classroom instruction. 1

Steps to become a licensed Electrician in Montana

  1. Choose a training path - apprenticeship or accredited trade school.
  2. Complete required classroom instruction - usually 500-1,000 hours.
  3. Log supervised work hours - 8,000 for journeyman, up to 20,000 for master.
  4. Apply for licensing exam with the Montana Board of Electrical.
  5. Pass the exam covering NEC, state codes, and safety.
  6. Maintain your license with continuing education.

Best Electrician schools in Montana

Several schools and training centers in Montana offer electrician programs. Each has its own format, length, and entry requirements. Below are some of the top options.

#1

Montana State University

Bozeman, MT In-state option

Located in Bozeman, MT Montana State University is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Aircraft Mechanic (A&P), Accounting Technology, and Bookkeeper.

Tuition Contact school for pricing
Contact

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#2

Flathead Valley Community College

Kalispell, MT In-state option

Located in Kalispell, MT Flathead Valley Community College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Accounting Technology, Bookkeeper, and Computer Programming.

Tuition Contact school for pricing
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Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

Montana Electrician training comparison

School / ProgramLengthFocus AreaPrepares For
MSU - Billings City College2 yearsElectrical TechnologyApprenticeship, Entry-level
Montana Tech - Highlands College2 yearsElectrical TechnologyResidential and Commercial
Great Falls College MSU1 yearBasic Electrical TrainingApprenticeship
IEC Montana Chapter4 yearsApprenticeship & Classroom ComboJourneyman License
Flathead Valley Community College2 yearsIndustrial MaintenanceIndustrial Electrical Jobs

Choosing the right school or program

Here’s what to look for when picking a school:

  • Accreditation ensures your hours count toward licensing.
  • Hands-on facilities labs and shop space simulate real job sites.
  • career services assistance helps you secure an apprenticeship quickly.
  • Flexible schedules night or weekend classes if you’re working.

If cost is a concern, compare tuition rates and ask about payment options or employer reimbursement.

Montana licensing reminders

The Montana State Electrical Board oversees licensing. Requirements may change, so check the Montana Department of Labor & Industry before enrolling.

Reminder: Unlicensed electrical work can carry fines, penalties, and possible job loss.

Next steps

  1. Review the schools above and compare their schedules, costs, and programs.
  2. Contact the admissions office for current start dates and enrollment requirements.
  3. Decide if you want the “school first” route or to start a paid apprenticeship.
  4. Keep track of both your classroom hours and your supervised work hours for licensing.

Montana offers solid training options for future electricians, whether you prefer a college program or want to earn while you learn. Pick a path, get your hours, and move toward your journeyman license. That’s the fastest way to apply for roles upon completion.



  1. Montana Department of Labor & Industry - State Electrical Licensing Requirements: https://dli.mt.gov/boards/electrical ↩︎