Download the Guide!
New Mexico has thousands of electricians, and yet even more are needed to keep the Land of Enchantment running — journeyman electricians, master electricians, electrical engineers. Fortunately, New Mexico has everything you need to become a member of this essential and skilled workforce.
The growing demand for electricians in New Mexico means you can feel confident that the time you put into training will pay off. In fact, the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) job search website,CareerOneStop, projects a 16% growth rate for electricians in New Mexico as compared with the 6% expected growth rate nationwide over the next decade. There’s definitely evidence to support this on job boards. There are hundreds of electrician jobs in New Mexico posted on Indeed.com and Zip Recruiter.
If you want to find your place in this expanding workforce, we’ve got all the information you need.
Accredited New Mexico Electrician Training Programs
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), “Most electricians learn their trade in a 4- or 5-year apprenticeship program. For each year of the program, apprentices typically receive 2,000 hours of paid on-the-job training as well as some technical instruction. Workers who gained electrical experience in the military or in the construction industry may qualify for a shortened apprenticeship based on their experience and testing. Some electricians start out by attending a technical school. Many technical schools offer programs related to circuitry, safety practices, and basic electrical information. Graduates of these programs usually receive credit toward their apprenticeship.”
Most people entering the electrical industry in the state of New Mexico learn on-the-job as an apprentice electrician. Formal education is not required by law in New Mexico to become an electrician although it can be applied toward the experience requirement for licensing. Technical education can also help you land that first entry-level job or the apprenticeship you want. In general, there’s a direct correlation between formal training and higher long-term earnings. So, though it’s not required to get started in electrical work, an apprenticeship with classroom instruction or a college certificate could pay off in the long run.
According to the BLS, some electricians enter apprenticeship programs after working as an electrician helper. The Home Builders Institute offers a pre-apprenticeship certificate training (PACT) program for eight construction trades, including electricians, and there are pre-apprenticeships offered at community colleges and through other trade organizations.
The most common ways to get electrician certification are to complete a union apprenticeship through your local Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee (JATC) or a nonunion apprenticeship through a trade organization, attend a technical college and work for a licensed electrician, or lean on-the-job working for a licensed electrical contractor.
New Mexico Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committees (JATC) are alliances between the local International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) chapters and the New Mexico chapter for the National Electrical Contractors Alliance (NECA).
IBEW has 2 jurisdictions in New Mexico and two Joint Apprentice Training Committees (JATC) that offer electrical apprenticeships.
El Paso Electricians JATC associated with Local Union 583 in El Paso
New Mexico JATC associated with Local Union 611 in Albuquerque
The local Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc (ABC) and the Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) chapters in and around New Mexico each have nonunion electrical apprenticeship programs that are four years long and meet US Department of Labor standards.
If you choose to start your journey with some kind of electrician education rather than a union or non-union apprenticeship, several New Mexico colleges offer certificate, diploma, or associate degree programs:
Central New Mexico Community College in Albuquerque
Luna Community College in Las Vegas, New Mexico
Navajo Technical University in Crownpoint
Northern New Mexico College in Espanola
Western New Mexico University in Silver City
More details on these programs below.
Electrician Degrees & Certificates
As you weigh the benefits of formal training at a trade school or technical college, you may want to speak with people in the field in the state where you plan to work. The licensing requirements vary from state to state, and some insist on a minimum amount of education. Other states have no educational requirements to get started, and it may make more sense to simply get an entry-level position and get on-the-job-training rather than attending one of the electrician schools.
If you plan to work in New Mexico, there is no classroom instruction required for licensing, only an experience requirement. However, sometimes getting a little technical education before you find work can help you compete for apprenticeship opportunities or make you a more attractive hire.
There’s typically a range of degree and certificate programs, but again most electricians enter an apprenticeship rather than a college program. Some electrical contractors may allow you to get hands-on training with them while also attending a college program at night or on the weekend. If you choose to start at a technical college, the time it takes to complete each kind of program and the cost of each are the most significant differences. The most common programs are:
Certificate Program – three to six months
Associate’s Degree – two years
Bachelor’s Degree – four years
Obviously, the longer the program, the more it costs. If you wish to be an electrical engineer, you’ll need a four-year bachelor’s degree. If this is a path that interests you, you may want to explore the Electrical Engineering Bachelor of Science degree at one of the four-year universities in New Mexico such as:
New Mexico State University in Las Cruces
New Mexico Tech in Socorro
University of New Mexico in Albuquerque
As stated earlier, formal education can pay off in the form of higher wages, but if your interest lies in being a journeyman or master electrician, a college degree is not necessary. However, for many of the approved programs above you will have the option of completing not only your apprenticeship but a college long-term certificate or associate’s degree.
The #1 newsletter for the trades.
Typical Courses in Technical College Programs
Electrical programs at technical colleges are all intended to prepare students for careers in commercial, industrial, or residential electrical applications. All combine theory and the practical skills needed to do the job. Most encourage students to work in their field of interest while attending school. Some are intended to give students a base of knowledge to prepare them to be helpers and get that first job with a licensed electrician. Typically, they include coursework in the fundamentals of the electrical trade. Classroom and laboratory experiences allow students to become proficient in the installation and maintenance of electrical wiring, transformers, A/C and D/C motor control circuit, instrumentation, and programmable logic controllers used in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. They all cover safety and the National Electric Code. Among the most common classes offered in these degree programs are:
Foundations of Mathematics
Industrial Safety Procedures
Direct Current
Alternating Current
Electrical Prints, Schematics, and Symbols
Commercial Wiring
Residential Wiring
Industrial Wiring
Electrical Controls
Diagnostic Troubleshooting
School Selection Criteria
There are a lot of things to consider when picking the right school and program.
Cost
Cost is, of course, at the top of the list. According to Community College Review, tuition at New Mexico community colleges on average is $2,058 per year for in-state students and $4,616 for out-of-state students. However, many of the electrician programs listed here are apprenticeships, which are often covered by the employing member contractor. There will be some variations in fees at each school, so be sure to review all the costs involved.
There are also always costs for books and tools, but those tools are yours to keep as you enter your field. All students who are interested in receiving federal (Pell Grant) and any state grants apply by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form online.
Program Length
As noted above, you can choose from a certificate or an associate’s degree. The certificates require as few as 13 credit hours. Associate’s degree programs typically take two years and require 60 credits or more. Most apprenticeships are four to five years long.
Benefits
There are benefits to formal education if you want to be an electrician. The National Electrical Code (NEC) and the state electrical code can be complex and classroom instruction can help apprentice electricians to comprehend the nuances of each. Also, oftentimes that formal education can be applied toward a college degree, such as an associate of applied science in Electrical Construction Technology. Technical training is also usually rewarded with higher starting pay and lifelong earnings.
Online vs in-person
You may choose to get electrician training through an online certificate program. Only you know if this type of independent curriculum will work for you. Both Penn Foster and Ashworth College offer online electrician classes. The University of New Mexico offers both an Electrical Technician and Residential Electrician online course.
Online programs are ideal for people looking for entry-level jobs or for entry-level workers who are looking to increase their salaries. If your learning style relies on personal instruction, more traditional in-person classes are accessible throughout the state.
Level of difficulty
Electrician training programs are designed to prepare graduates for entry-level positions in commercial, industrial, or residential sectors as an electrical technician. The BLS says technical instruction for apprentices includes electrical theory, blueprint reading, mathematics, electrical code requirements, and safety and first-aid practices. Students may also receive specialized training related to soldering, communications, fire alarm systems, solar systems, programmable logic controls, and elevators.
School Comparison: At a Glance
There are many technical training programs available in New Mexico to learn about the electrical field. New Mexico Career and Technical Education offered in high schools throughout the state is a great place to start. The New Mexico Public Education Department offers a state approved electrical training course through its Architecture & Construction Pathway. Among the school systems with this program are:
Many of these programs allow students to earn dual credit simultaneously toward high school graduation and a postsecondary (college) degree or certificate. Check with your high school CTE coordinator to find the nearest program if it is not offered at your school.
Many New Mexico Community Colleges have certificate or degree programs in Electrical Technology. Each has different tuition and fees, but all offer students financial aid in the form of grants and loans. Some only offer online courses.
Central New Mexico Community College Electrical Trades (AAS), Photovoltaic (PV) Concentration | 70 credits Electrical Trades (AAS), Programmable Logic Controls (PLC) Concentration | 67 credits Electrical Trades, Certificate of Completion | 42 credits Programmable Logic Controls (PLC) Systems, Certificate of Completion | 52 credits Residential Wiring, Certificate of Completion | 28 credits Solar Electric (PV), Certificate of Achievement | 13 credits
Luna Community College Electrical Wiring Technology | Certificate | 34 credits
Navajo Technical University Electrical Trades | Certificate | 34-35 credits
Northern New Mexico College Electrical Technology | AAS | 60 credits Electrical Technology | Certificate | 35 credits
Western New Mexico University Electrical Technology | AAS | 71 credits Electrical Technology | Certificate | 31 credits Electrical Technology | Fast Track Certificate | 16 credits
Albuquerque Job Corp Electrical Pre-Apprenticeship | Free career training and education for 16-24-year-olds
Apprentice options are listed in the apprenticeship section below.
Steps for Enrollment in New Mexico
Every college has its own way of doing things, but in general the process begins with applying for admission on the school’s website or in person. Some require an application fee and provide several documents. Some apprenticeships require that you interview and you may be placed on a waiting list. In general, the application process has the following steps:
Complete your application.
Pay the application fee (if applicable).
Provide proof of residency to qualify for in-state tuition.
Have sealed official high school transcript or GED scores sent.
Submit placement test scores.
Interview if necessary for apprentice opening.
Obtain an apprentice license through the state.
If you choose to start with an apprenticeship, you will want to contact the JATC, Local Union, or IEC or ABC chapter closest to you. Each organization has a slightly different application process, but the application requirements in general are:
Must be at least 18 years of age.
Must be a high school graduate, senior scheduled to graduate or have earned a GED certificate. Applicants will be required to provide a copy of their diploma or GED certificate, and an official transcript of their grades following submission of the application.
Must have a valid driver’s license.
Have passed high school algebra or an equivalent post-high school algebra class with a “C” or better or pass an aptitude test.
Pass a drug screen and criminal background checks.
Electrician Career Requirements in New Mexico
As mentioned earlier, New Mexico does not have an educational requirement to legally perform entry-level electrical work in the state. Entry-level professionals just need to meet employer expectations, but often employers expect applicants to have some kind of postsecondary training. College education in the field can also be used in place of part of the experience requirement for licensing through the Electrical Bureau of the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department Construction Industries Division.
The process of becoming an electrician begins with an apprenticeship, trade school or on-the-job training in an entry-level position working for a licensed electrical contractor. There is no license or registration necessary to be an electrical apprentice, but you must document your work experience. Some journeyman electrician license classifications require two years (4,000 hours) experience or equivalent. They are:
ES-1J Electrical Signs and Outline Lighting
ES-2J Cathodic Protection and Lightning Protection
ES-3J Sound and Intercommunication and Electrical Alarm Systems
ER-1 Residential
ES-7J Telephone Communication Lines
Two journeyman electrician license classifications require four years (8,000 hours) experience or equivalent:
EE-98J Electrical (includes all ESJ Specialties)
EL-1J Electrical Distribution Systems, including transmission lines
Electrical Contractor Licenses also require two to four years of experience depending upon the classification. To be awarded a contractor license, you must also pass a Business and Law Exam. A journeyman can provide electrical services but must work for a licensed contractor. Only a contractor can bid on jobs because they have the license to contract out services as an electrician.
For a detailed explanation of New Mexico’s Electrician licensing requirements and how to fulfill them, check out our essential guide to getting your New Mexico Electrical License.
Salaries for Electricians in New Mexico
Before paying for technical education as an electrician apprentice, you’ll want some idea of the potential return on your investment of time, effort, energy, and money. In other words, what can you expect to make as an electrical professional in New Mexico? Payscale.com data provides an answer based on your experience. The median electrician salary in New Mexico for 2023 is:
Entry level <2 years: $49,900
Intermediate 2-4 years: $59,500
Senior 4-6 years: $66,100
Supervisor > 7 years: $94,300
For more information about electrician salaries, visit this state-by-state guide.
Industry Apprenticeships
As we said earlier, most electricians get their training through a formal apprenticeship. Most apprenticeships are four-to-five-year programs and combine hands-on training with classroom instruction. To meet U.S. Department of Labor standards, you must accumulate 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of classroom instruction over four years. Most also require you to be at least 18 years of age, have a high school diploma or a GED, a valid driver’s license, and have passed high school algebra or an equivalent post-high school algebra class with a “C” or better.
The electrical union apprenticeship programs in New Mexico are offered by local chapters of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) in coordination with the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA). Together they make up the Electrical Training Alliance.
Joint Apprenticeship Training Committees (JATC)
El Paso Electricians JATC associated with Local Union 583 in El Paso
New Mexico JATC associated with Local Union 611 in Albuquerque
Nonunion apprenticeships like those offered by the Associated Builders and Contractors and the Independent Electrical Contractors are similar to the union programs.
These nonunion and union programs culminate in journeyman status as directed by national standards. Apprentices work for member contractors with an opportunity for increased wages each year until reaching journeyman status.
Some companies will provide the training themselves — creating an in-house apprenticeship. A typical model of that is pairing a new employee with an experienced, licensed electrician for the hands-on part of training and sometimes requiring new hires to attend classes at night at a local community college or sometimes taught through the company itself. You can find these opportunities on job boards, and all will typically prepare you for the license exam.
The state also has a website dedicated to registered apprenticeships for job seekers.
Other School Options
We’ve highlighted many New Mexico electrician training programs so far, but there are more.
There are programs throughout the state that may be more accessible to you based on where you live. In addition to all those already mentioned, each of the schools below has an electrical technology program.
New Mexico State University in Las Cruces
University of New Mexico in Albuquerque/Gallup
Southeast New Mexico College in Carlsbad
New Mexico has campuses across the state with electrical programs. You can find the training you need to excel as an electrician in New Mexico. The opportunities are all around you!
ServiceTitan Electrical Software
ServiceTitan is a comprehensive electrical business software solution built specifically to help service companies streamline their operations, boost revenue, and achieve growth. Our award-winning, cloud-based platform is trusted by more than 100,000+ contractors across the country.
