Becoming an Electrician in British Columbia, Canada: A Beginner's Guide

Cooper Electrical Contracting Ltd. • February 10, 2023
CONTACT US
  • an electrician wearing a blue hard hat is working on a electrical box

Determine the type of electrician you want to become: In British Columbia, there are four main categories of electricians: Construction Electrician, Industrial Electrician, Maintenance Electrician, and Traffic Signal and Control Electrician. Choose the type that best fits your interests and skills.


Get an education: You will need to complete a high school education and an electrical apprenticeship program that is recognized by the Industry Training Authority (ITA) of British Columbia.


Start an apprenticeship: An electrical apprenticeship typically lasts four years and consists of on-the-job training and in-school technical training. You will be paid while you learn and gain practical experience.


Pass the certification exams: After completing your apprenticeship, you will need to pass a certification exam administered by the ITA. You will also need to complete additional training and exams if you wish to become a Master Electrician.


Obtain a license: To work as an electrician in British Columbia, you will need to obtain a license from the Safety Standards Branch of the Technical Safety BC.


Stay current: Electricians in British Columbia are required to participate in ongoing training to stay current with changes in the electrical code and industry standards.


Good luck!

a kitchen with wooden cabinets, granite counter tops, and stools

Common Mistakes Made By DIYers When Doing Electrical Work In Their Homes

By Cooper Electrical Contracting Ltd. • June 10, 2023
Electrical work can be dangerous and should only be performed by a licensed professional, however, many homeowners attempt to do it themselves to save money. Here are some of the most common mistakes made by DIYers when doing electrical work in their homes.
an electrician in a hard hat is kneeling down next to a box of tools

Busting Myths About Electricians: Separating Fact from Fiction

By Cooper Electrical Contracting Ltd. • May 10, 2023
When it comes to electricians, there are many myths and misconceptions that persist. Here are some of the most common myths about electricians and the facts that dispel them.
a close up of a light bulb hanging from the ceiling in a dark room

General FAQ About Electricity

By Cooper Electrical Contracting Ltd. • April 10, 2023
Read the answers of general FAQs about the electricity in this post.