The Electrical Construction and Maintenance program provides students with training and practical experience in the installation of circuits, switches, conduits, circuit breakers, and other electrical devices. Instruction includes the proper use and care of hand tools and equipment used to install electrical systems on a construction site. Students learn to connect and disconnect electrical equipment and determine proper installation and operation of electrical work, apply procedures used in interior circuits and outlets, and troubleshoot electrical malfunctions. Special emphasis in placed on the National Electrical Code Specifications used in residential, commercial, and in industrial electrical construction projects. They work indoors and outdoors and may work in dusty, hot, or wet conditions.
Electricians often work in confined areas.
Most work a standard 40-hour week with overtime sometimes required. If an electrician works for a company that operates 24 hours a day, their shift may vary and sometime they may have to work nights, weekends, or be on call. Safety procedures must be closely followed to avoid injury on the job. Some electricians specialize in either construction or maintenance and many today can do both. Upon completion of the electrical systems technology program, students should have the qualifications to enter apprenticeship programs offered by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Independent Electrical Contractors, or local contractors.