How to Become an Electrician in Central Louisiana
What electricians do, what they earn, and how Central Louisiana students can start.
Electricians at a glance
National figures. Pay in Central Louisiana varies with the employer, your experience and the type of work.
Median pay
a year ($30.38 an hour).
Job outlook
projected growth from 2025 to 2035, much faster than average.
Apprenticeship
about 2,000 paid on-the-job hours a year plus classroom.
To start
a high school diploma or equivalent is the typical entry requirement.
What electricians do
Electricians install, maintain and repair the wiring, lighting and electrical systems in homes, businesses, factories and construction sites. They read blueprints and wiring diagrams, follow electrical codes and work both indoors and outdoors. Almost all electricians work full time, often with some evening, weekend or overtime hours. Safety comes first: the main injury risks are electrical shocks, falls and burns, which is why training starts with safety.
How to get started
Finish high school
Most programs ask for a high school diploma or GED. Electrical apprenticeship programs also look for one full year of high school algebra with a passing grade, so take algebra if you are thinking about this trade.
Choose a path
A paid apprenticeship. In an IBEW and NECA apprenticeship you earn while you learn. Applicants submit an application and transcripts, take an aptitude test (algebra and reading comprehension), and interview with a committee of union and contractor representatives. Applicants are ranked, and a name stays on the eligibility list for two years. Some local programs add a minimum age, a drug test or a driver's license requirement. In Alexandria, the Alexandria Electrical JATC is listed in Louisiana's apprenticeship directory at 6703 Masonic Drive, Alexandria, LA 71301, phone (318) 443-5811. Call to ask about age, testing and when applications are open.
A technical college. CLTCC's Electrician Technology program on the Alexandria Main Campus offers a Career and Technical Certificate (Electrician Helper), a Certificate of Technical Studies (Residential Electrician) and a Technical Diploma. Students learn shop safety, electrical codes and standards, blueprint reading, wiring diagrams and installation techniques.
Get licensed
Most states require electricians to pass a test and hold a license, and the requirements vary by state. Ask your apprenticeship or training program what Louisiana and your parish or city require.
What the Chapter does for aspiring electricians
With a grant from Cleco, the Student Chapter bought building wire and gave it to the electrical classes at three Central Louisiana high schools last year, so students could practice wiring instead of watching. At Cenla Trades Day on Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2026, students can ask electricians' union apprenticeship representatives how to get started. The event is free, informational and not a job fair. RSVP by Nov. 6.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook: Electricians
- Electrical Training Alliance: The Application Process
- Central Louisiana Technical and Community College: Electrician Technology
- Louisiana apprenticeship directory: current apprenticeship programs
Last reviewed Oct. 30, 2026. Pay and growth figures are national. Program requirements and dates change, so confirm them with the program.