Summary
Becoming an electrician in Spokane is a strong career path if you want reliable work, good pay, and hands-on skills. To get licensed in Washington, you will register as an electrical trainee, complete 8,000 hours of supervised on-the-job experience, complete 96 hours of classroom training, and pass the EL01 journeyman exam. Spokane provides multiple entry points including IBEW Local 73, Spokane Community College, and regional pre-apprenticeship programs. You earn income while you train, making this a practical and accessible pathway into a respected trade career.
Electricians keep Spokane working. From residential homes and commercial buildings to industrial facilities and energy systems, this region depends on skilled electrical workers. Spokane continues to grow, and so does the demand for trained electricians. With new construction, infrastructure upgrades, manufacturing operations, and renewable energy expansion, now is a great time to enter the field.
If you enjoy solving practical problems and want a career that offers stability, growth potential, and real purpose, becoming an electrician in Spokane may be the right fit for you.
Do You Need a License to Work as an Electrician in Spokane
Yes. All electricians in Spokane must be licensed through Washington State Labor and Industries. The licensing process is structured and paid, meaning you earn money as you learn.
Requirements to Become an Electrician in Spokane
To become a licensed electrician in Spokane, you will complete the following:
• Register as an electrical trainee
• Join a state-approved apprenticeship or training program
• Complete 8,000 hours of supervised work experience
• Complete 96 hours of classroom instruction
• Pass the Washington EL01 journeyman exam
This process typically takes four to five years, and you receive wages throughout your training period.
Electrician Training Programs and Apprenticeships in Spokane
IBEW Local 73 Electrical Apprenticeship
IBEW Local 73 and the Inland Empire Electrical Training Trust operate an electrical apprenticeship serving Spokane and surrounding counties. This is a well-known and respected pathway in Eastern Washington.
Benefits include paid training, classroom instruction, experienced mentorship, union wages and benefits, and strong job placement support. This route is ideal for individuals interested in commercial and industrial electrical careers.
Spokane Community College
Spokane Community College offers trade preparation and technical training programs that help students build foundational electrical knowledge. SCC is a helpful starting point for individuals who want to gain skills and prepare for apprenticeship entry, especially if they would like structured classroom learning before applying to a union program.
Pre-Apprenticeship and Workforce Programs in Spokane
Pre-apprenticeship programs help applicants prepare for apprenticeship entry by focusing on electrical fundamentals, math skills, tool handling, safety, and interview preparation. Spokane residents often access support through:
• WorkSource Spokane
• Regional construction and trades-readiness programs
• ANEW-affiliated offerings
• Community workforce development initiatives
These programs help individuals become more competitive candidates for electrical apprenticeship programs.
Step-by-Step Path to Becoming an Electrician in Spokane
Step One: Register as an Electrical Trainee
This registration allows you to legally begin working in the field and recording hours.
Step Two: Enter a Training Program
Apply to apprenticeship programs, Spokane Community College, or pre-apprenticeship pathways. Many applicants apply more than once, so persistence is important.
Step Three: Complete Work and Classroom Requirements
Earn 8,000 supervised work hours and complete 96 hours of classroom training.
Step Four: Pass the EL01 Exam
The exam covers safety, electrical code, wiring, calculations, and Washington electrical laws. Passing the exam grants your journeyman license.
Electrician Salary in Spokane
Electricians in Spokane earn competitive wages, particularly when compared to other entry-level fields.
| Level | Typical Earnings |
|---|---|
| Electrical Apprentice | Approximately $26 per hour plus overtime |
| Journeyman Electrician | Approximately $39 to $40 per hour plus overtime |
| Master Electrician | Approximately $52 per hour or more |
Many electricians receive additional benefits if working in union or public-sector positions.
Why Spokane is a Great Place to Build an Electrical Career
Spokane offers a healthy mix of residential construction, commercial development, manufacturing, and energy-related work. The region is expanding and modernizing, which means consistent demand for skilled electricians. If you are motivated, reliable, and ready to learn a trade, Spokane is an excellent place to begin.
Final Thoughts
Becoming an electrician in Spokane requires commitment and effort, but it is a path that offers financial stability, long-term opportunity, and meaningful work. You gain valuable skills, avoid college debt, and build a future with real earning power and career flexibility.
About the Author
Lester Burkes is a skilled-trades educator and the founder of LearnSkilledTrades.com. Based in Washington State, he helps students and career-changers explore practical pathways into high-demand trade careers such as electrical work, HVAC, welding, and diesel technology. He is committed to expanding access to high-quality training opportunities and supporting individuals who want to build strong futures through skilled work.