If you're aiming to launch a career in electrical trade in Fort Worth, TX, by 2025, you'll need a Journeyman Electrician license after completing at least 8,000 hours of supervised training, which typically takes about 4 years through an apprenticeship program like those offered by IEC Fort Worth/Tarrant County, with costs varying from free apprenticeships to program fees around $500–$2,000 per semester. Career prospects are strong, with median salaries near $60,000 annually and 11% job growth projected nationally from 2023 to 2033, driven by construction and renewable energy demands in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, so starting with an apprenticeship via Gild can set you on a path to earning up to $100,000 as a Master Electrician. This guide outlines the steps, requirements, and opportunities to help you navigate becoming a licensed electrician in this thriving market.
Electricians are essential professionals who install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. In Fort Worth, TX, this includes working on wiring for new constructions, troubleshooting power systems, and adapting to emerging trends like renewable energy installations, such as solar panels, to meet the city's growing infrastructure needs1. With the Dallas-Fort Worth area seeing a 1.3% increase in nonfarm employment by February 2025, electricians play a key role in supporting urban development and energy efficiency initiatives, making it a rewarding career with hands-on problem-solving and technical expertise.
Yes! In Fort Worth, TX, you must obtain a license through the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR)2 to work legally as an electrician, with levels ranging from Apprentice to Master Electrician. For unsupervised work, you'll need at least a Journeyman Electrician license, which requires passing an exam after accumulating 8,000 hours of on-the-job training3. All electrical work must be performed under a licensed contractor's supervision until you're fully qualified, ensuring safety and compliance with local regulations.
According to TDLR, an electrical apprenticeship in Texas typically lasts 4 to 5 years, during which you'll gain practical experience while earning a wage. Here's a breakdown of key apprenticeship paths available:
| Apprenticeship Type | Required Hours | Duration (Years) | Key Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apprentice Electrician | 0 (entry-level) | 4 | Basic training and supervision2 |
| Journeyman Electrician | 8,000 total | Up to 4 | Advanced skills and exam preparation3 |
| Master Electrician | 12,000 total (after Journeyman) | 2 additional | Supervision and business management4 |
To find an apprenticeship, use Gild to search for openings in Fort Worth, or explore programs at IEC Fort Worth/Tarrant County2, which offers earn-while-you-learn opportunities. Joining local unions or checking with Tarrant County College can also connect you to programs that provide both classroom instruction and on-site experience.
To start, you must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and be able to read and understand English. Enrolling in foundational courses in math and electrical safety can boost your readiness, with many programs available through local institutions like Remington College5.
While not mandatory, programs at IEC Fort Worth/Tarrant County or Tarrant County College offer hands-on training in electrical safety, wiring, and troubleshooting, preparing you for the demands of 2025's energy trends2. Search for these on Gild to find affordable options that fit your schedule.
Begin with an Apprentice Electrician license from TDLR3, which allows you to work under supervision. Complete at least 8,000 hours of training over about 4 years, combining on-the-job experience with classroom learning. Use Gild to discover apprenticeships that provide this pathway, helping you build skills in renewable energy and smart systems.
After your apprenticeship, apply for the Journeyman exam through TDLR2, requiring verified experience and passing a test on electrical codes. This license enables independent work, with many in Fort Worth earning median salaries of $60,0004—take prep courses via IEC to increase your success rate.
Advance by gaining 2 more years of experience as a Journeyman and accumulating 12,000 total hours, then pass the Master Electrician exam. This level allows you to supervise projects and start your own business, capitalizing on Fort Worth's projected 11% job growth6 in electrical trades by 2025.
By 2025, renewable energy in Texas, including Fort Worth, will drive demand, with solar power accounting for nearly 30% of electricity generation1. However, challenges like workforce shortages mean electricians must adapt through ongoing training, such as courses on energy-efficient systems, to meet the needs of growing infrastructure projects—check Gild for opportunities addressing these trends.
Starting as an electrical apprentice in Fort Worth, TX, offers a pathway to a stable, high-demand career with strong salary growth and opportunities in renewable energy. Whether you're new to the field or transitioning careers, use Gild to find apprenticeships and training programs that align with your goals, setting you up for success in this dynamic industry by 2025.
