Best Electrician Schools in Montana

If you want to work with your hands, earn a steady living, and have skills that are always in demand, 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 - Billings City College

Program: Associate of Applied Science in Electrical Technology
Length: 2 years
Features:

• Combines hands-on labs with classroom study
• Covers NEC, motor controls, blueprint reading, and circuits
• Prepares you for apprenticeship placement

2. Montana Tech - Highlands College

Program: A.A.S. Degree in Electrical Technology
Length: 2 years
Features:

• Small class sizes with real-world lab setups
• Focus on residential, commercial, and industrial wiring
• Strong ties with local contractors for job placement

3. Great Falls College MSU

Program: Certificate of Applied Science in Electrical Technology
Length: 1 year (full-time)
Features:

• Good option for fast entry into apprenticeship programs
• Evening and weekend classes available for working students
• NEC certification prep included

4. IEC Montana Chapter

Program: Four-Year Electrical Apprenticeship Program
Length: 4 years (paid apprenticeship)
Features:

• Earn while you learn with on-the-job training
• Classroom instruction 1 day per week
• Sponsored by the Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC)

5. Flathead Valley Community College

Program: A.A.S. in Industrial Maintenance with Electrical Focus
Length: 2 years
Features:

• Broad coverage of electrical systems and industrial equipment
• Prepares graduates for diverse electrical roles
• Modern labs and safety-first instruction

Montana Electrician Training Comparison

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.
• Job placement 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 financial aid or workforce grants.

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 start working in the trade.

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