J.F. Drake State Community and Technical College
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Alabama / J.F. Drake State Community and Technical College
J.F. Drake State Community and Technical College – Huntsville, AL
Programs Offered
- Electrical Technology (Short-Term Certificates, Certificate, Associate of Applied Science Degree)
Program Overview
J.F. Drake State Community and Technical College offers an Electrical Technology program designed to prepare students for real electrical work in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. The curriculum covers electrical theory, wiring methods, motor controls, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and the National Electrical Code. Students learn how to install and maintain electrical systems, read drawings and schematics, troubleshoot problems safely, and work to industry standards. Multiple training paths are available, from short skills-based certificates to a full associate degree, so students can enter the workforce quickly or continue training for more advanced roles.
Hands-On Training
Training happens in dedicated electrical labs that simulate job-site conditions. Students practice bending conduit, wiring outlets and panels, installing lighting and motor controls, and working with test equipment. Courses are built around doing the actual work an entry-level electrician or industrial tech would do on site, not just classroom theory.
Certification & Licensing Prep
- Introduces students to Alabama electrical code and safety expectations used on licensed job sites.
- Teaches National Electrical Code fundamentals and safe work practices needed to move toward electrician licensing and advancement to journeyman-level roles.
- Includes coursework in industrial systems and controls for students interested in plant and manufacturing environments, not just residential wiring.
Career Paths & Salary Outlook
- Electrical Apprentice / Helper: Assist licensed electricians in installing and maintaining wiring, lighting, panels, and control systems in homes and commercial buildings.
- Industrial Electrical Technician: Maintain and troubleshoot electrical equipment, control systems, and motors in factories and manufacturing facilities.
- Maintenance Electrician: Perform preventative maintenance and repairs on electrical systems in hospitals, schools, and other large facilities.
- Journeyman / Licensed Electrician: With additional required on-the-job hours and licensing, graduates can progress into higher-paid independent work and supervision roles.
Program Length
- Short-Term Certificates: Focused training in specific skill areas that can be completed quickly.
- Certificate in Electrical Technology: Typically about 1 year of full-time study.
- Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Electrical Technology: Generally about 2 years of full-time study.
Admission Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED
- Basic math and reading ability to work with measurements, diagrams, and safety instructions
- Willingness to work in active shop and field environments using hand tools and power tools
Cost & Financial Aid
As part of Alabama’s community college system, Drake State offers affordable tuition compared to private technical schools. Students may qualify for federal financial aid, state workforce grants, scholarships, or employer-sponsored tuition support. Many students start earning while training by taking on entry-level electrical work alongside their coursework.
Location
Drake State is located in Huntsville, Alabama, an area with strong demand for skilled technical workers in construction, advanced manufacturing, aerospace support, and facility maintenance. The Electrical Technology program is aligned with local employer needs, helping students move directly from training into paid work.
Cost & Career Outlook
Based on publicly reported data for J. F. Drake State Community and Technical College (Huntsville, AL) — U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Program Type: Trade or Technical Training
In-State Tuition
Out-of-State Tuition
Median Earnings (10 yrs)
Time to Earn It Back
ROI Grade
About this data: Tuition and earnings are averages from federal College Scorecard data for comparable programs at J. F. Drake State Community and Technical College. Actual costs may vary by program length, residency, and supplies. Earnings reflect median salaries ten years after entering the institution. This helps estimate how quickly your training can pay off in real-world wages.