Before diving into the steps, it's essential to understand what working in the electrical trade entails. Electrical professionals in Ketchikan install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings, often involving work with the National Electrical Code (NEC). This includes working on power distribution, lighting, transformers, and utility infrastructure; for more on NEC training, visit resources here. With KPU’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP) planning major upgrades like generator rewinds, breaker replacements, and grid modernization, electricians will play a critical role in ensuring reliable power delivery in this remote Alaskan city 1.
Yes! To work as an electrician in Ketchikan, you must obtain a state-issued license through the Alaska Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development. Visit the official application form here for certification details. There are two primary certifications:
Both require a combination of work experience, classroom training, and passing a state exam.
To become a licensed electrician in Ketchikan, you must complete an apprenticeship or a combination of on-the-job training and technical education. The Alaska Joint Electrical Apprenticeship & Training Trust (AJEATT) offers a 4- to 5-year apprenticeship program that includes 8,000 hours of work experience and 1,400 hours of classroom instruction 54. Learn more about apprenticeship applications here.
| Apprenticeship Type | Duration | Work Hours | Classroom Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrician Apprentice | 4–5 years | 8,000 | 1,400 |
| Pre-Apprenticeship (AVTEC/Ilisagvik) | 6–12 months | N/A | 500–1,000 |
To find an apprenticeship:
To begin your journey in the electrical trade, you must meet the following criteria:
While not mandatory, completing a pre-apprenticeship program can give you a competitive edge. Programs at AVTEC and Ilisagvik College offer foundational electrical training, including safety protocols, basic wiring, and code compliance 4.
An apprenticeship is the most common path to becoming a licensed electrician. Through AJEATT, you’ll receive paid on-the-job training and classroom instruction over 4 to 5 years. During this time, you’ll learn how to install and maintain electrical systems, work with transformers and generators, and follow the National Electrical Code (NEC) 54.
After completing your apprenticeship, you can apply for your Journeyman Electrician License or Residential Electrician Certificate. The process includes:
For those looking to start their own business or manage electrical projects, obtaining an Electrical Administrator License is the next step. This requires additional experience, references, and passing an administrator exam 4. Find related job postings here.
The job outlook for electricians in Ketchikan is positive, with KPU’s Capital Improvement Program driving demand for skilled workers. Nationally, electrician employment is projected to grow by 11% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations 7. In Ketchikan, electricians and electrical technicians are needed for grid upgrades, generator maintenance, and utility infrastructure projects 1. For detailed salary comparisons, refer to sources here.
| Job Title | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level Electrical Engineer | $88,853 |
| Electrical Engineer | $124,300 |
| Senior Electrical Engineer | $140,000–$160,000 |
| Journeyman Electrician | $70,000–$90,000 |
Salaries in Ketchikan are 3.8% higher than the Alaska average, reflecting the high cost of living and the demand for skilled labor in a remote location 26.
Working as an electrician in Ketchikan comes with unique challenges, including:
However, these challenges also create opportunities for career advancement, specialized training, and contractor roles. With KPU’s planned investments and the state’s push for renewable energy integration, electricians with advanced skills in grid modernization, smart systems, and renewable energy will be in high demand 4.
Starting a career in the electrical trade in Ketchikan, AK, is a promising path for those seeking a stable, well-paying job in a growing industry. Whether you're just finishing high school or considering a career change, following these steps will set you on the path to success. As you gain experience and build your credentials, the opportunities in the electrical trade will only continue to grow.
To begin your journey, explore electrical apprenticeship opportunities in Ketchikan through Gild, check salary data here, or visit additional resources like electrical training options. Start building a rewarding career in one of Alaska’s most essential trades.
https://www.ketchikan.gov/media/Finance/2024%20Budget%20Proposed/2024-2028%20Proposed%20KPU%20CIP%20-%20Digital.pdf ↩ ↩2 ↩3
https://www.ahtna.com/kanas/become-a-certified-electrician/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
https://www.contractornerd.com/electrician-insurance/alaska-license/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7 ↩8 ↩9
https://alaskaelectricalapprenticeship.org/how-to-apply/ ↩ ↩2
https://www.prairielectric.com/electrician-careers/electrician-job-outlook/ ↩
