Northwest Arkansas Community College
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Arkansas / Northwest Arkansas Community College
Northwest Arkansas Community College – Bentonville, AR
Programs Offered
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Electrical Technology
- Technical Certificate in Electrical Technology
Program Overview
Northwest Arkansas Community College (NWACC) offers an Electrical Technology program that prepares students for entry-level careers in the electrical trade. The curriculum blends classroom learning with hands-on laboratory instruction, providing practical experience in electrical installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting. Students gain the technical knowledge and safety awareness necessary to work in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
The program emphasizes electrical theory, the National Electrical Code (NEC), motor controls, and renewable energy concepts. Graduates are equipped to pursue employment in construction, manufacturing, or facilities maintenance, or continue toward apprenticeship programs for professional licensure.
Hands-On Training
Students train in modern lab environments that simulate real-world job conditions. Coursework and lab projects include:
- Residential and commercial wiring
- Motor controls and programmable logic controllers (PLCs)
- Electrical panel installation and troubleshooting
- Conduit bending and layout
- Electrical blueprint reading and system design
Certifications & Career Preparation
- Prepares students for industry-recognized certifications, including OSHA and NCCER credentials
- Provides foundational training applicable to electrical apprenticeships and journeyman pathways
- Focuses on NEC code compliance and safe electrical work practices
Students also receive guidance on career development, resume preparation, and interview skills through NWACC’s workforce readiness programs.
Career Paths & Employment Opportunities
- Residential or Commercial Electrician
- Electrical Maintenance Technician
- Industrial Controls Technician
- Facilities or Construction Electrician
Graduates can find employment with electrical contractors, utility companies, industrial plants, and construction firms across Northwest Arkansas and surrounding regions.
Program Length
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS): Approximately 2 years (full-time study)
- Technical Certificate: Typically 1 year
Admission Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED
- Basic math and reading proficiency
- Ability to safely operate tools and equipment
- Completion of health and safety orientation prior to lab work
Financial Aid & Student Support
Northwest Arkansas Community College offers financial assistance through federal aid, workforce scholarships, and state-supported training grants. Students also have access to academic advising, tutoring, and career placement services to support their success during and after the program.
Location
Located in Bentonville, Arkansas, NWACC serves students throughout the rapidly growing Northwest Arkansas region. The Electrical Technology program is housed within modern training facilities designed to provide real-world experience and prepare students for high-demand skilled trade careers.
Cost & Career Outlook
Based on publicly reported data for NorthWest Arkansas Community College (Bentonville, AR) — 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 NorthWest Arkansas Community 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.