Best Electrician Schools in Vermont

Updated August 13, 2025

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If you want to become an electrician in Vermont, your first step is to get proper training. The state requires electricians to complete a mix of on-the-job experience and classroom learning before you can apply for a license. Choosing the right school can make this process easier and faster.

This guide will help you find the best electrician schools in Vermont and understand what the Vermont licensing board expects from you.

Steps to Become a Licensed Electrician in Vermont

Vermont regulates electricians through the Division of Fire Safety - Electrical Licensing Board. You must follow their rules to work legally.

Here's the general path:

  1. Meet the basic requirements
    • Be at least 18 years old
    • Have a high school diploma or GED
    • Be physically able to do the work
  2. Complete an apprenticeship or technical training program
    This usually takes 4-5 years and combines work experience with classroom hours.
  3. Document your hours
    Vermont requires proof of supervised on-the-job training along with educational instruction.
  4. Apply for the journeyman exam
    Submit your application and fees to the Division of Fire Safety.
  5. Pass the exam
    The test covers the National Electrical Code (NEC) and Vermont amendments.
  6. Renew your license regularly
    Vermont requires continued education for license renewal.

Licensing Rule: Vermont journeyman electrician applicants must complete at least 8,000 hours of on-the-job training, plus 576 hours of classroom instruction.

  • Vermont Division of Fire Safety

Top Electrician Schools in Vermont

While you can meet the requirements through an approved apprenticeship, trade and technical schools are an ideal place to start. They can help with classroom hours and often connect students with apprenticeship sponsors.

1. Vermont Technical College (VTC) - Randolph Center

Program: Electrical Engineering Technology (Associate Degree) and Electrical Apprenticeship Courses
Highlights:

  • State-approved apprenticeship coursework
  • Small class sizes for hands-on learning
  • Strong connections with Vermont contractors

This program is popular for those who want both practical skills and a deeper understanding of electrical systems design.

Website: https://www.vtc.edu/

2. Green Mountain Technology and Career Center - Hyde Park

Program: Electrical Technology
Highlights:

  • Prepares students for entry-level electrical work
  • Offers OSHA safety training
  • Integrates with apprenticeship programs after graduation

Ideal for high school seniors or adults looking to start in the trade.

Website: https://www.gmtcc.net/

3. Stafford Technical Center - Rutland

Program: Electrical & Renewable Energy
Highlights:

  • Combines standard electrical training with solar and renewable technologies
  • Modern lab facilities
  • Focus on safety and the National Electrical Code

This program is a good choice if you want to specialize in renewable energy systems.

Website: https://www.staffordonline.org/

4. Burlington Technical Center - Burlington

Program: Electrical Technology
Highlights:

  • Offers foundation courses for aspiring electricians
  • Includes practical wiring projects
  • Close ties with local trade unions for potential apprenticeships

Website: https://btc.bsdvt.org/

5. North Country Career Center - Newport

Program: Electrical Technology
Highlights:

  • Hands-on shop training
  • Basic residential wiring instruction
  • Opportunity to earn OSHA 10 certification

Website: https://nc3.ncsuvt.org/

Comparing Program Lengths and Formats

School / Program Typical Length Includes OSHA Safety Prepares for Licensing Hours
Vermont Technical College 2 years (degree) or per apprenticeship schedule Yes Yes
Green Mountain Technology 1-2 years Yes Yes
Stafford Technical Center 1-2 years Yes Yes
Burlington Technical Center 1 year Yes Yes
North Country Career Center 1-2 years Yes Yes

Note: Some programs require you to arrange your own apprenticeship after completing classroom work. Always confirm with the school before enrolling.

Tips for Choosing the Right Vermont Electrician School

When deciding where to study, look at:

  • State approval - Make sure the program meets Vermont licensing board requirements.
  • Placement help - Schools that help connect you to apprenticeships save you time.
  • Facilities - Hands-on labs and real wiring projects make a big difference.
  • Location and schedule - Evening or part-time classes can help if you work during the day.

Apprenticeship vs. Full-time School

Both paths work in Vermont.

Apprenticeship:
You work full-time under a licensed electrician and take classes part-time. This is the most common route and lets you earn while you learn.

Full-time school:
You focus on classroom and lab training first. Then you enter the workforce with credits toward your licensing hours.

There's no single right choice-it depends on your financial situation and schedule.

Staying Compliant After Licensing

Once you are licensed, you must keep up with Vermont's continuing education requirements. This usually means attending NEC update courses every licensing cycle.

Safety Rule: Working on electrical systems without a valid Vermont license can result in fines or loss of future licensing opportunities.

  • Vermont Division of Fire Safety

Next Steps

If you're ready to start, here's what to do:

  1. Check the Vermont Division of Fire Safety's licensing requirements.
  2. Contact one or more of the schools listed above.
  3. Ask about start dates, tuition, and any apprenticeship placement help.
  4. Apply to the program that fits your needs.
  5. Begin logging your training and classroom hours from day one.

Starting your training now means you can be ready to apply for your journeyman license in as little as four years. The sooner you meet licensing requirements, the sooner you can work legally and independently in Vermont.




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