We all need electricians, and electricians need extensive training to safely install and service electrical systems. If you want to join the electrician workforce, you'll be glad to know training is readily available throughout the Sunflower State. The growing demand for skilled trades in Kansas makes it an excellent time to enter the field.
We've put together everything you need to know to get started.
Electrician Career Overview in Kansas
The job market for electricians in Kansas is robust. According to CareerOneStop, there is a projected 9% growth rate for electricians in Kansas over the next decade. Demand is driven by new construction, industrial modernization, and the need for skilled tradespeople to maintain aging infrastructure.
There is critical demand for both commercial and residential electricians, with commercial service companies expanding rapidly across the state.
Daily responsibilities typically include:
Installing electrical systems, lighting controls, and security systems.
Interpreting electrical prints and schematic diagrams.
Performing diagnostic troubleshooting on AC/DC motors and transformers.
Adherence to OSHA safety training and the updated National Electrical Code (NEC) standards.
Kansas Electrician License Requirements
Unlike many states, Kansas handles electrical licensing at the local level (cities and counties) rather than issuing a single statewide license. However, state statutes establish minimum standards that municipalities must follow. The International Code Council (ICC) or Prometric typically administer the required exams.
Common license classes include:
Journeyman electrician: Requires 4,000 hours of on-the-job training (approximately 2 years) under the supervision of a licensed electrician and 240 hours of classroom instruction.
Master electrician: Generally requires two additional years of experience as a journeyman.
Electrical contractor: Allows you to run a business and hire other electricians. Requirements often include liability insurance and a business law exam.
Residential electrician: Some municipalities, like Wichita, offer specific licenses for residential work.
Always check with your specific city or county board (such as the City of Wichita or Sedgwick County) for local licensing details.
Electrician Training Pathways: Degrees vs. Certificates
Aspiring electricians in Kansas have several academic routes to gain the necessary classroom hours and hands-on skills.
Certificate programs: These short-term programs (6–12 months) focus on core skills like residential wiring and conduit bending. They are ideal for quick entry into the workforce as an electrical helper.
Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.): A 2-year degree that includes general education and advanced technical training in areas like programmable logic controllers and industrial electronics. This degree often counts toward the education requirements for the journeyman exam.
Pre-apprenticeship: Programs like the Home Builders Institute (HBI) PACT curriculum prepare students with foundational knowledge before they enter a formal apprenticeship.
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Top Electrician Schools in Kansas
Several accredited institutions offer comprehensive training. Tuition for these programs typically averages around $3,484 per year for in-state students.
Johnson County Community College (Overland Park): Offers an Electrical Technology Certificate (30 credits) and Associate of Applied Science degree; focuses on commercial wiring and industrial safety.
Kansas City Kansas Community College (Kansas City): Features an Electrical Technology Certificate (44 credits) and degrees in Electronics Engineering Technology.
WSU Tech (Wichita): Offers an Electrical Technology program that aligns with NCCER certifications and prepares students for the Journeyman Electrician exam.
Hutchinson Community College (Hutchinson): Provides an Electrical Apprenticeship pathway and Industrial Electronics training.
Salina Area Technical College (Salina): Offers a 9-month Technical Certificate and a 2-year Associate degree.
Northwest Kansas Technical College (Goodland): Focuses on hands-on training in renewable energy and electrical distribution.
Coffeyville Community College (Coffeyville): Offers a comprehensive Electrical Technology certificate program.
North Central Kansas Technical College (Beloit): Rigorous program covering commercial and residential electrical systems.
Typical Curriculum and Coursework
Electrical technology programs combine theory with practical application. You can expect to cover:
Theory: Direct current and alternating current fundamentals.
Systems: Motor controls (A/C and D/C), low-voltage alarms, and fire alarm systems.
Documentation: Print reading and blueprint reading.
Compliance: National Electrical Code (NEC) standards.
Electrician Apprenticeship Programs in Kansas
Apprenticeships are a common path to licensure, combining paid work with education. In Kansas, you can choose between union and non-union programs.
Union Apprenticeships (JATC)
These programs are partnerships between the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA). They offer a structured union apprenticeship path.
Kansas City JATC (Local 124)
Topeka Electrical JATC (Local 226)
Wichita Electrical JATC (Local 271)
Hutchinson Electrical JATC (Local 661)
Non-Union Apprenticeships
Non-union or merit shops also offer excellent training. Options include the Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) of Kansas or employer-sponsored programs.
Salary and Career Outlook for Kansas Electricians
Before investing in your education, it's helpful to know the potential return. Salaries vary by experience and location. According to Indeed, the median electrician salary in Kansas breaks down as follows:
Experience Level | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
Entry-level (<2 years) | $61,174 |
Intermediate (2-4 years) | $74,417 |
Senior (4-6 years) | $80,615 |
Supervisor (>7 years) | $90,503 |
Learn more about how to become a licensed electrician in Kansas.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become an electrician in Kansas?
It typically takes 4 to 5 years to become a journeyman electrician in Kansas. This generally requires 4,000 hours of on-the-job training and 240 hours of classroom instruction.
Do electricians in Kansas need a state license?
No, Kansas does not issue a single statewide electrician license. Instead, licenses are issued by local municipalities (cities and counties), though they must comply with minimum standards set by the state legislature.
How much does an electrician school cost in Kansas?
Tuition for an electrical technology program at a Kansas community college averages around $3,484 per year for in-state students. Apprenticeship programs often cover these costs, though students may need to pay for books and tools.
Can I take electrician classes online in Kansas?
While some general education courses are available online, electrical trade training requires hands-on lab work. Skills like wiring and conduit bending must be practiced in person at a training facility or on the job.
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