How to Become an Electrician in Alaska

Alaska is one of the best places in the world to become an electrician.

There are more jobs for electricians than there are for electricians, which means those who work in the electrical industry get to reap the benefits.

These benefits include steady work and an excellent yearly salary!

So, if you’re searching for a stable career, here is how you can become an electrician in Alaska.

Electrician Job Duties and Skills in Alaska

The Bureau of Labor Statistics states, “Electricians must be able to read blueprints that include technical diagrams of electrical systems and show the location of circuits, outlets, and some other equipment. 

They use different types of hand tools and power tools, such as conduit benders, to run and protect wiring. 

Other commonly used tools include common tools like screwdrivers, drills, and saws.”

An electrician’s job duties may also include (but are not limited to):

• Reading blueprints or technical diagrams
• Installing and maintaining wiring, control, and lighting systems
• Inspecting electrical components, such as transformers and circuit breakers

Plus more.

Electricians need to possess some soft skills in order to thrive in the electrical industry, much like other jobs.

Some of these soft skills that an electrician should possess include:

• Communication
• Time Management 
• Computer Skills
• Customer Service
• Flexibility
• Patience
• Empathy

Overall, you should be willing to broaden your knowledge and skillset as much as possible when entering this career field.

How to Become an Electrician in Alaska

So, how should you go about becoming an electrician in Alaska? 

It’s not a short process, but it isn’t difficult either.

Just follow the steps down below, and you will be well on your way!

Meet The Requirements

To be eligible for an electrical license in Alaska, you have to be 18 years old or older. There are no exceptions to this.

You must also make sure to have a high school diploma or a GED.

Make sure you meet these requirements before applying to take the licensing exam!

Get Your Classroom Hours

All future electricians must complete at least 1,400 classroom hours before they can apply for their electrical license in Alaska.

Be sure you meet this requirement or, once again, unfortunately, you will not be able to get your license.

Complete Your Training

Similarly, if you do not make sure to gain 4,000 hours of hands-on work experience before applying to take your licensing exam, you won’t be eligible to receive an electrical license in Alaska.

So, be sure you get all 4,000 necessary work hours.

You can do this by completing one of Alaska’s apprenticeship programs.

You can also try to gain more working hours while attending some technical schools and community colleges in Alaska.

Apply for the License

Once you’re absolutely sure that you’ve met all the necessary requirements, you can go ahead and apply for your license!

To do this, you’ll need to take and pass an electrical exam.

This exam will have 25 questions, and you must score 70% or higher to pass. 

Training Programs for Electricians in Alaska

Here are some of the institutions in Alaska that offer electrical training programs.

Alaska Vocational Technical Center

Alaska Vocational Technical Center’s Industrial Electricity program teaches students all the necessary information for becoming an electrician. 

The program prioritizes teaching students how to use sharp critical thinking skills and mathematical abilities to develop an understanding of electrical theory and practical applications of electrical circuits.

Avtec.edu says “They apply what they learn to wire up, characterize, and test electrical motors, transformers, renewable energy systems, efficient power distribution systems, and other systems while making sure to use the National Electrical Code and follow the electrical safety standards during the process.”

Alaska Joint Electrical Apprenticeship and Training Trust

According to Alaska Joint Electrical Apprenticeship and Training Trust, “The AJEATT is dedicated to producing Alaska’s best trained and most qualified electrical workers.”

This apprenticeship is a joint partnership between The Alaska Chapter of the National Electrical Contractors Association and The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 1547.

The partnership grants students the opportunity to earn a wage while working as an apprenticeship, like many apprenticeships.

It’s one of the best programs for students in Alaska who are interested in becoming electricians.

Ilisagvik College

Ilisagvik College offers The Construction Technology program.

This program trains students in Carpentry, Electrical, Plumbing, welding, and more.

Ilisagvik states, “The degree, certificates, and endorsements in the program are purposefully designed to prepare our students for entering the workforce–or to provide those currently employed with an opportunity to upgrade their current skill level.”

Electrician Salaries in Alaska

An electrician’s salary will vary depending on several factors, including experience, expertise, and specialization.

However, all electricians, regardless of these factors, are likely to make a livable wage while working as an electrician.

In Alaska, it’s no different.

In fact, Alaskan electricians are amongst some of the highest-paid electricians!

Check out the chart below to see how much you can make as an electrician in Alaska.

Annual Salary Range: Annual Salary by Location:

Location	Avg. Annual Salary
Anchorage	$72,582
Fairbanks	$72,282
Juneau	$71,936
Kenai	$71,603
Kodiak	$71,603
Bethel	$71,603
Wasilla	$71,603
Barrow	$71,303
Sitka	$70,957
Ketchikan	$70,957

Regional Salary in Alaska

* Salary information based on the May 2023 Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) Survey for Electricians, OCC Code 47-2111, BLS.
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does an electrician make per year in Alaska?

Electricians can be very highly paid in Alaska.

While the yearly salary of an electrician depends on work experience and expertise, electricians can make between $50,000 and $150,000 in Alaska.

Are electricians in demand in Alaska?

Yes.

Electricians are much needed in Alaska, and the demand far outweighs the supply.

How many classroom hours does it take to become a licensed electrician in Alaska?

You will need to complete 1,400 classroom hours before you’ll be eligible to take the electrical licensing exam in Alaska.

Electrician Info by State