Electrician schools in Ohio provide apprenticeship programs for students interested in becoming electricians. To apply for an electrician program, students need to possess a high school diploma or GED and score high enough on the required aptitude test that covers basic writing, reading and math skills. Students should expect keen competition for limited openings in this hands-on learning environment. Prospective students should enjoy working with their hands and have a high level of technical acumen. Coursework covers a wide range of topics such as electrician fundamentals, Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), circuit operation, devices and loads, installing conduit, construction math, special wiring applications, the National Electrical Code (NEC), and schematic reading.
Programs require students dedicate their full schedule to the program because of the amount of required hours. Students spend the majority of their time working in the field as part of a paid apprenticeship. State regulators, electrical contractors and unions help establish program guidelines. Licensure is usually required by each state. The Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board (OCILB) can provide state information on licensing. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that job opportunities for electricians will grow 12% by 2018.