Best Electrician Schools in Wisconsin

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.

Electrician licensing in Wisconsin

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:

  1. Meet education or experience requirements - Either complete an apprenticeship program, graduate from an electrical trade school, or work in the electrical field under supervision with documented hours.
  2. Apply for the exam - Submit your DSPS application, proof of experience, and any required documentation.
  3. Pass the state exam - The exam tests your knowledge of the National Electrical Code (NEC), state-specific rules, and safety standards.
  4. Get licensed - Once you pass, you’ll receive your Journeyman Electrician license.
  5. Advance your career - After additional work experience, you may qualify for the Master Electrician license.

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.

How to choose the best Electrician school in Wisconsin

When picking a training program, look for:

  • State approval. Make sure it’s recognized by the Wisconsin DSPS for licensing credit.
  • Hands-on training Labs, simulators, and on-site. Practice are essential.
  • Experienced. Instructors Teachers with years in the field make a big difference.
  • Career services. Schools with strong apprenticeship or employer connections can may support your job search.
  • Location and schedule Pick a program you can realistically attend, whether full-time or part-time.

Top Electrician schools in Wisconsin

Here are some respected options for electrical training in the state.

#1

Milwaukee Area Technical College

Milwaukee, WI In-state option

Located in Milwaukee, WI Milwaukee Area Technical College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Aviation Maintenance Technology, Appliance Repair, and Auto Body and Collision Repair.

Tuition Contact school for pricing
Contact

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#2

Madison Area Technical College

Madison, WI In-state option

Located in Madison, WI Madison Area Technical College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Auto Body and Collision Repair, Automotive Technician, and Automotive Technology.

Tuition Contact school for pricing
Contact

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#3

Northeast Wisconsin Technical College

Green Bay, WI In-state option

Located in Green Bay, WI Northeast Wisconsin Technical College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Auto Body and Collision Repair, Automotive Technician, and Automotive Technology.

Tuition Contact school for pricing
Contact

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#4

Western Technical College

El Paso, TX In-state option

Located in El Paso, TX Western Technical College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Aerospace Technology, Aircraft Mechanic (A&P), and Computer Support Specialist.

Tuition Contact school for pricing
Contact

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#5

Waukesha County Technical College

Pewaukee, WI In-state option

Located in Pewaukee, WI Waukesha County Technical College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Automotive Technician, Automotive Technology, and Beauty Cosmetology.

Tuition Contact school for pricing
Contact

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

Electrical training program comparison

SchoolLocationProgram LengthDSPS ApprovedHands-On Labs
Milwaukee Area Technical CollegeMilwaukee1-2 yearsYesYes
Madison Area Technical CollegeMadison1 yearYesYes
Northeast Wisconsin Technical CollegeGreen Bay1-2 yearsYesYes
Western Technical CollegeLa Crosse1 yearYesYes
Waukesha County Technical CollegePewaukee1 yearYesYes

Apprenticeships as an Alternative

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:

  • Earn while you. Learn.
  • Get supervised, real-world training on job sites.
  • Often includes classroom instruction paid by the sponsor.

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).

Preparing for the Electrician Exam

Whether you go to school or complete an apprenticeship, you’ll still need to pass the licensing exam.

Tips for exam success:

  • Study the current edition of the NEC.
  • Use DSPS-provided exam outlines to focus your efforts.
  • Get familiar with time limits and multiple-choice format.
  • Take. Practice exams to build speed and confidence.

Next steps

If you want to work as an electrician in Wisconsin:

  1. Review Wisconsin DSPS licensing requirements.
  2. Decide if you’ll attend a DSPS-approved school, an apprenticeship, or both.
  3. Visit at least two campuses (or apprenticeship offices) to compare options.
  4. Apply early, especially to programs with limited seats.
  5. Start building work hours toward your journeyman license.

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