Best Electrician Schools in Tennessee

If you want a steady trade career in Tennessee, becoming an electrician is a smart choice. The demand for skilled electricians continues to grow statewide. The first step is finding the right training program that fits your budget, schedule, and career goals.

In Tennessee, you can train through technical colleges, community colleges, and specialized trade schools. Each option has different program lengths, costs, and certifications. Below, I'll break down the top schools and what to look for so you can start your path toward earning your license.

How to Become an Electrician in Tennessee

In Tennessee, you must meet state and sometimes local licensing requirements before you can work unsupervised.

Basic steps to licensure:

1. Get the right education - Complete an accredited electrical training program or start an apprenticeship.
2. Log supervised hours - Most electrician roles require thousands of on-the-job training hours.
3. Pass required exams - This can include trade knowledge and electrical code tests.
4. Apply for your license - Submit your documentation to the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors.
5. Renew and keep learning - You'll need continuing education to stay licensed.

According to the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors, "An electrician must comply with both state and local authority requirements before contracting electrical services."

What to Look For in an Electrician School

Choosing the right school can save you time and money. Look for:

• State-approved curriculum that meets licensing requirements.
• Hands-on training labs to build real trade skills.
• Journeyman exam preparation as part of the course.
• Strong industry connections to help with apprenticeships.
• Flexible schedules if you need to work while training.

Best Electrician Schools in Tennessee

Here are some of the top programs in the state. Always confirm details directly with each school before enrolling.

1. Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT)

Locations: Multiple campuses across Tennessee
Program: Industrial Electricity or Electrical Systems Technology
Length: Varies from 12 to 20 months depending on specialization
Highlights:

• Fully accredited by the Council on Occupational Education.
• Strong job placement assistance.
• Offers both day and night classes.

2. Chattanooga State Community College

Location: Chattanooga, TN
Program: Electrical Engineering Technology - Concentration in Industrial Electricity
Length: Two-year Associate of Applied Science
Highlights:

• Combines electrical theory with applied hands-on training.
• Internship opportunities with local employers.
• Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

3. Nashville State Community College

Location: Nashville, TN
Program: Electrical Engineering Technology
Length: Two years with workforce-ready certificate options.
Highlights:

• Modern electrical labs for training.
• Certificates that count toward the associate degree.
• Strong ties to local construction and manufacturing industries.

4. Northeast State Community College

Location: Blountville, TN
Program: Electrical Technology
Length: Two years for associate degree; also offers a one-year diploma.
Highlights:

• Focus on residential, commercial, and industrial wiring.
• Prepares students for journeyman licensing exams.
• Flexible course schedule to accommodate working students.

5. IBEW Local Apprenticeship Programs

Location: Multiple locations across Tennessee
Program: Inside Wireman Apprenticeship (through the National Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee)
Length: 4-5 years part-time while working.
Highlights:

• Earn while you learn with paid on-the-job training.
• Tuition often covered by union and industry partners.
• Extensive safety and code compliance training.

Electrician Training Program Lengths in Tennessee

Tennessee Electrician Licensing Notes

The Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors governs most electrician licensing, but some cities and counties have their own licensing requirements. Always check with your local building codes office before starting work.

Common License Types:

• Limited Licensed Electrician (LLE) - For smaller projects, often residential.
• Journeyman Electrician - Requires supervised training hours and passing an exam.
• Master Electrician / Electrical Contractor - For running your own business and larger projects.

Safety and Compliance

Electricians work around live power. State and federal safety laws must be followed to avoid injury and legal issues.

OSHA stresses, "Only qualified persons should work on or around energized conductors or circuit parts." (OSHA Electrical Safety)

Training programs should cover:

• Proper lockout/tagout procedures.
• National Electrical Code (NEC) compliance.
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) use.

Next Steps

Here's what you should do now:

1. Decide on your path - Certificate, degree, or apprenticeship.
2. Research schools - Start with TCAT, community colleges, and IBEW programs listed here.
3. Check admission requirements - Age, education level, and any placement testing.
4. Contact the admissions office - Get tuition costs, start dates, and class formats.
5. Apply early - Some trade programs fill up months in advance.

Getting your training from the right electrician school in Tennessee lays the foundation for a solid career. Once you graduate and get licensed, you'll have the skills to work anywhere in the state - and possibly beyond.

Sources

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