Ecmweb 3215 505ecm19pic1
Ecmweb 3215 505ecm19pic1
Ecmweb 3215 505ecm19pic1
Ecmweb 3215 505ecm19pic1
Ecmweb 3215 505ecm19pic1

Three Keys to Educating Electricians

May 1, 2005
The education market may be a little soft, but Fort Worth Electric (FWE) still found a way to make a little scholastic scratch by teaching. Texas electricians need four hours of state-certified CEUs per year to retain their licenses, but instead of sending his staff to classes at a training agency, FWE's president, Tracy Aaron, decided to save money by getting certified to do the teaching himself.

The education market may be a little soft, but Fort Worth Electric (FWE) still found a way to make a little scholastic scratch — by teaching. Texas electricians need four hours of state-certified CEUs per year to retain their licenses, but instead of sending his staff to classes at a training agency, FWE's president, Tracy Aaron, decided to save money by getting certified to do the teaching himself. Now his competitors come to him for their annual CEUs. And he learned a few things about offering an A+ electrical ed program along the way. Take notes.

The instructor — Finding someone who can engage students in the discussion is important, so it helps if they're crazy for the Code. And instructors in Texas aren't required to have an electrical license, but Aaron says it lends credibility.

The courses — When submitting courses to the state for approval it helps to be detailed — right down to when you'll take breaks. And Texas electricians can only take any given class once, so adding new choices regularly will increase your chances of getting repeat students.

The revisions — Requirements can change without warning, so see if the state provides e-mail updates. Aaron got on the e-notification list in Texas, and it didn't take long for it to pay off — the state made a revision before he held his first class.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of EC&M, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations

Electrical Conduit Comparison Chart

CHAMPION FIBERGLASS electrical conduit is a lightweight, durable option that provides lasting savings when compared to other materials. Compare electrical conduit types including...

Fiberglass Electrical Conduit Chemical Resistance Chart

This information is provided solely as a guide since it is impossible to anticipate all individual site conditions. For specific applications which are not covered in this guide...

Considerations for Direct Burial Conduit

Installation type plays a key role in the type of conduit selected for electrical systems in industrial construction projects. Above ground, below ground, direct buried, encased...

How to Calculate Labor Costs

Most important to accurately estimating labor costs is knowing the approximate hours required for project completion. Learn how to calculate electrical labor cost.