Quick Summary
If you’re looking to start a solid career in Olympia, becoming an electrician is a strong choice. To get licensed, you’ll register as an electrical trainee, train through a state-approved apprenticeship or college program, complete 8,000 hours of on-the-job training, take 96 hours of electrical coursework, and pass the state EL01 journeyman exam.
Olympia doesn’t have as many training centers as larger cities, but you still have great pathways — including IBEW Local 76, South Puget Sound Community College, and nearby regional apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs. If you’re consistent, motivated, and show up ready to learn, you can build a career here that pays well and grows with you.
Electricians keep homes powered, businesses running, and essential services operating. And as Olympia continues to grow with residential construction, government buildings, schools, and green-energy projects skilled electricians are only becoming more valuable.
If you’re someone who likes working with your hands, solving problems, and building skills that actually matter, the electrical trade might be exactly what you’re looking for.
Here’s how to get started in Olympia.
Do You Need a License to Work as an Electrician in Olympia?
Yes — all electricians in Olympia must be licensed through Washington State Labor & Industries (L&I). That means you’ll follow the same training and exam requirements as electricians across Washington, but you’ll train locally and in nearby programs.
Requirements to Become an Electrician in Olympia
To earn your electrician license, you will:
- Register as an Electrical Trainee
- Enroll in an approved apprenticeship or training program
- Complete 8,000 hours of paid on-the-job experience
- Complete 96 classroom training hours
- Pass the EL01 Journeyman Exam
You’ll earn a paycheck during training — which is one of the best parts about this career path.
Where to Train as an Electrician in Olympia
Olympia offers strong entry points into the trade, even if training happens nearby.
IBEW Local 76 — Olympia-Area Union Apprenticeship
This is one of the most respected electrician paths in the region. The training includes classroom learning plus paid on-the-job hours in commercial and industrial electrical work.
Why people choose it:
- Get paid while you learn
- Union wages and benefits
- Clear career progression
- Real-world experience from day one
This is a great option if you want a long-term trade career with stability and growth opportunities.
South Puget Sound Community College (SPSCC)
SPSCC offers training that helps prepare students for electrical careers and future apprenticeship entry.
Perfect for students who want:
- Hands-on foundation skills
- Help preparing for apprenticeship tests
- Academic support and structure
A strong start if you’re newer to trades or want more prep before jumping into a full apprenticeship.
Regional Electrician Programs Near Olympia
While Olympia doesn’t have a large apprenticeship center in-city, many locals apply to nearby programs, including:
- Southwest Washington Electrical JATC
- Puget Sound Electrical JATC (Renton)
- Regional Workforce and TRAC programs
It’s normal to apply to multiple programs — electrician apprenticeships are competitive and high-value.
Pre-Apprenticeship Options for Olympia Residents
If you want help preparing — especially with math, hand tools, and electrical concepts — pre-apprenticeships are a great starting point.
Olympia students often apply to:
- ANU / ACI Pre-Apprenticeship
- WorkSource Thurston workforce programs
- Regional trades readiness programs
These help build confidence and increase your chances of getting accepted into a paid apprenticeship.
Step-by-Step: Becoming an Electrician in Olympia
1. Register as an Electrical Trainee
Do this before you start clocking electrical work hours.
2. Get Accepted Into Training
Choose union apprenticeship, college, or pre-apprenticeship.
3. Complete Hours & Training
Earn:
- 8,000 hours of paid supervised work
- 96 hours of electrical coursework
4. Pass the EL01 Test
This open-book exam covers electrical code, safety, and calculations.
Once you pass, you’re a licensed journeyman electrician in Washington.
Electrician Pay in Olympia
Electricians in the Olympia-Thurston County area earn strong wages:
| Level | Typical Pay |
|---|---|
| Apprentice | ~$26/hr + overtime |
| Journeyman | ~$39–$40/hr + overtime |
| Master Electrician | ~$52+/hr |
And many jobs include benefits, retirement, and ongoing raises as you build experience.
How Long Does It Take?
Most people complete training in 4–5 years, but remember — you’re earning while you train, not taking on student debt.
Why Choose the Electrical Trade in Olympia?
Olympia is a great place to break into this career because it’s:
- Growing in construction and infrastructure
- Home to state and government facilities
- Close to multiple apprenticeship hubs
- Expanding in renewable energy and electrification
If you show up, work hard, and stay curious, you can build a career here that supports you and your family for life.
About the Author
Lester Burkes is a skilled-trades educator and founder of LearnSkilledTrades.com. Based in Washington State, he helps people explore practical pathways into high-earning trades careers like electrical, HVAC, and construction. His mission is to make workforce training more accessible, especially for first-generation students, career-changers, and adults building a better future through skilled work.