Mat-Su College
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Alaska / Mat-Su College
Mat-Su College – Palmer, AK
Programs Offered
- Electrical Apprenticeship Program (Residential, Commercial, and Industrial Systems)
Program Overview
Mat-Su College offers a comprehensive Electrical Apprenticeship Program that combines classroom instruction with real-world, on-the-job training. The program is designed to prepare students for professional careers in the electrical trade, focusing on installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of electrical systems. Coursework covers electrical theory, blueprint reading, conduit bending, code compliance, and safety procedures in both residential and commercial environments.
This program is affiliated with the University of Alaska Anchorage system, ensuring students receive high-quality instruction and access to industry partnerships that support apprenticeships, licensing, and employment opportunities across Alaska.
Hands-On Training
Students gain valuable field experience working under licensed electricians while completing coursework at Mat-Su College. Lab training reinforces key concepts such as wiring, motor control, circuit design, and diagnostics. The apprenticeship model allows students to earn while they learn, gaining hands-on experience in real job settings that mirror professional electrical work.
Certification & Licensing Prep
- Program prepares students for state-recognized electrician trainee and journeyman pathways.
- Curriculum aligns with the National Electrical Code (NEC) and Alaska Department of Labor apprenticeship standards.
- Graduates accumulate apprenticeship hours required toward journeyman electrician licensing in Alaska.
Career Paths & Salary Outlook
- Electrical Apprentice: Work under the supervision of licensed electricians to install and maintain wiring systems. Apprentices earn competitive wages and advance toward journeyman status.
- Journeyman Electrician: Perform independent electrical installation, service, and repair work in residential, commercial, or industrial environments. Journeyman electricians in Alaska earn strong salaries and enjoy steady demand.
- Electrical Contractor or Supervisor: With additional experience and certification, graduates may progress into leadership, inspection, or project management roles.
Program Length
- Apprenticeship Program: Approximately 4 years (includes coursework and supervised on-the-job training)
Admission Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED
- Strong background in mathematics and physics
- Enrollment in or eligibility for a registered electrical apprenticeship program
- Ability to complete supervised field hours under licensed electricians
Cost & Financial Aid
Mat-Su College is a public institution within the University of Alaska Anchorage system, offering affordable tuition and financial aid options. Students may qualify for federal financial aid, Alaska Performance Scholarships, workforce development grants, and veteran education benefits. Apprenticeship programs often include paid on-the-job training to offset education costs.
Location
Located in Palmer, Alaska, Mat-Su College serves students across the Matanuska-Susitna Valley and surrounding regions. The campus offers small class sizes, modern electrical training facilities, and close partnerships with local employers and trade unions to support apprenticeship placement and career advancement.
Cost & Career Outlook
Based on publicly reported data for College of San Mateo (San Mateo, CA) — U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Program Type: Primarily Certificate or Associate Programs
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 College of San Mateo. 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.