Milwaukee Area Technical College
Milwaukee Area Technical College is a Public, 2-year in Milwaukee, WI. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across WI.
- 700 W State St Milwaukee, WI 53233-1443
- (414) 297-6282
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If you want to become an electrician in Wisconsin, the best way to start is by getting proper training at a reputable school. A quality program will teach you the electrical skills, safety procedures, and code knowledge you need to succeed in the trade.
Wisconsin requires electricians to be licensed through the Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS). To qualify, most people complete an apprenticeship or graduate from an approved trade or technical program, then meet supervised work hour requirements.
Here’s what you need to know about choosing the right school and starting your path toward becoming a licensed electrician.
Before looking at schools, understand the licensing process. This will help you choose a program that meets state requirements.
Basic steps to become a licensed Journeyman Electrician in Wisconsin:
Wisconsin DSPS rule: Journeyman Electrician applicants must show proof of at least 8,000 hours of electrical work experience, including specific hours in residential, commercial, and industrial wiring, unless they graduate from a recognized program.
For the most accurate requirements, always check the Wisconsin DSPS Electrician licensing page.
When picking a training program, look for:
Here are some respected options for electrical training in the state.
Milwaukee Area Technical College is a Public, 2-year in Milwaukee, WI. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across WI.
Madison Area Technical College is a Public, 4-year in Madison, WI. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across WI.
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College is a Public, 2-year in Green Bay, WI. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across WI.
Western Technical College is a Private for-profit, 4-year in El Paso, TX. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across TX.
Waukesha County Technical College is a Public, 2-year in Pewaukee, WI. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across WI.
| School | Location | Program Length | DSPS Approved | Hands-On Labs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee Area Technical College | Milwaukee | 1-2 years | Yes | Yes |
| Madison Area Technical College | Madison | 1 year | Yes | Yes |
| Northeast Wisconsin Technical College | Green Bay | 1-2 years | Yes | Yes |
| Western Technical College | La Crosse | 1 year | Yes | Yes |
| Waukesha County Technical College | Pewaukee | 1 year | Yes | Yes |
You don’t necessarily need to attend school full-time to become an electrician. Many start with a paid apprenticeship through a union or employer.
Benefits of an apprenticeship:
In Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Bureau of Apprenticeship Standards oversees these programs. You can find more information through local International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) unions or non-union contractor associations like the Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC).
Whether you go to school or complete an apprenticeship, you’ll still need to pass the licensing exam.
Tips for exam success:
If you want to work as an electrician in Wisconsin:
Starting with the right training program will help you compare options in Wisconsin’s electrical trade. Choose a school or apprenticeship that matches your career goals, and focus on gaining the knowledge and hours you need to get licensed.
Sources [^1] :Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services - Electrician Licensing Requirements [^2] :U.S. Department of Labor - Apprenticeship Programs [^3] :NCCER - Electrical Program Overview
Learn more about this career, including national salary data and certification paths, in our Electrical & Energy Systems career guide.