Why Choose North Island College?
- State of the art facilities. Our labs use new computers with state of the art simulation software, AC DC power supplies, oscilloscopes, meters and two framed mock-up buildings for hands on installations.
- Be recognized for what you know. On securing an apprenticeship, graduates will receive credit for the first year of their apprenticeship technical training. In addition, a time credit is granted toward the required time to complete the apprenticeship.
- A future of possibilities. Completion of an Electrical Apprenticeship and obtaining an Interprovincial (Red Seal) certification opens many doors and is the first step to a rewarding career. Obtaining additional certification in electronics will open doors to even higher paying positions. See also Electronics Core and Industrial Automation programs.
- Be in demand. Most employers prefer to employ people with foundation training, this can also set you on the path towards your apprenticeship.
- Industry Recognized Training. North Island College is an Industry Training Authority (ITA approved) training provider for this entry-level program in the Interprovincial Red Seal trade of construction or industrial electrician.
Program Highlights
The Electrical Foundation program, which consists of two blocks of training, provides students with strong technical knowledge while they develop the fundamental skills that electricians require.
During the first 8-week block, students gain generic trade skills and knowledge, preparing them for further study. In the second block, which lasts for 16 weeks, students participate in an Enhanced Year I Electrical Apprenticeship training session. Here, they develop both the theoretical and practical skills required of a first-year apprentice.
Students learn the safe and correct use of common hand tools, power tools, and other equipment used in the trades, with particular emphasis on use in the electrical trade. They also learn basic theoretical and practical knowledge of residential and commercial wiring techniques; theoretical and practical knowledge of electrical codes; and a comprehensive knowledge of many of the electrical components used in the trade.
Graduates of the program possess a good theoretical understanding of electricity and many of its residential, commercial and industrial applications.
Career Opportunities
You will find employment opportunities in residential, commercial and industrial electrical construction, electrical maintenance and service, industrial electrical and electronic process controls, marine electrical work, utilities and others. Career positions may include, but would not be limited to: construction electrician, industrial electrician, electrical maintenance and servicing and marine electrical servicing.
Construction electricians install equipment and wiring in new housing, shopping centres, condominiums, townhouses, office buildings, schools, hospitals, factories, processing plants, mills, mines, manufacturing plants, sub stations, etc. Industrial electricians perform maintenance, upgrades and process control modifications in all types of heavy and light industrial settings. Top paying jobs also require knowledge of computer applications and software, PLC systems and electronics (see Electronics Core and Industrial Automation programs).
Supply List
REQUIRED
• Scientific Calculator (Sharp EL546VB or equivalent recommended)
• Binder/Papers/Pens/Pencils
• Digital Multimeter (wait for instructions from the Instructor on 1st day of class before purchasing)
• Steel-toed footwear
• Hard hat
OPTIONAL
• Electrical Circuit Template (Optional – (wait for instructions from the Instructor on 1st day of class before purchasing)
Admission Requirements
- A minimum C+ grade in English 11 or NIC ENG 052, TPC 12 or equivalent, or successfully complete North Island College assessment testing in English; and
- A minimum C+ grade in Principles of Math 11 or Applications of Math 12, or NIC MAT 053 or equivalent, or successfully complete NIC assessment testing in Math; and
- A minimum C grade in Physics 11 or NIC PHY 050; and
- A successful assessment of mechanical and spatial reasoning. For more information, check the mechanical and spatial reasoning information sheet.
To Be Successful
• Students are encouraged to contact the instructor for an in-person or telephone interview. The purpose of the interview is to provide advice, answer questions about the program and discuss various career fields and choices.
• Many employers require grade 12 completion as an employment standard. If you do not meet this requirement we encourage you to contact a Student Advisor to discuss upgrading or grade 12 completion options offered at NIC. In addition to the stated prerequisites secondary school equivalent courses in Science and Drafting are considered an asset.
• The most important key to success is the desire to become a quality trades person. The traditional values of hard work, reliability, positive attitude and the desire to do quality work are essential to succeed in the program.
• Prospective students should be aware that trades programs require good hand/eye coordination, good binocular vision, strong abilities in spatial and mechanical reasoning along with good math and communication skills.
• There is also an expectation of physical activities such as lifting, working on ladders and scaffolding or in confined spaces and under various weather conditions. Prospective students should also have the ability to stay focused for prolonged periods.