Pima Community College
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Arizona / Pima Community College
Pima Community College – Tucson, AZ
Programs Offered
- Associate of Applied Science in Electrical Technology
- Certificate in Electrical Installation and Maintenance
- Certificate in Residential and Commercial Wiring
Program Overview
Pima Community College in Tucson offers a hands-on Electrical Technology program designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in the electrical trades. The program blends classroom learning with extensive lab experience, giving students the knowledge and practical skills necessary to install, maintain, and troubleshoot electrical systems safely and effectively. Coursework emphasizes modern electrical practices, blueprint reading, and compliance with the National Electrical Code (NEC).
Students also gain exposure to renewable energy systems, industrial controls, and advanced troubleshooting techniques—skills that make graduates valuable in residential, commercial, and industrial sectors across Arizona.
Hands-On Training
Training is conducted in fully equipped electrical labs that simulate real-world jobsite conditions. Students work directly with wiring systems, control panels, and testing equipment while learning to diagnose and repair electrical circuits. Core areas of instruction include:
- Electrical theory and circuit analysis
- AC/DC power systems and transformers
- Residential and commercial wiring methods
- Motor controls, relays, and programmable logic controllers (PLCs)
- Blueprint reading and load calculations
- Occupational safety and NEC code compliance
Certification & Career Preparation
- Prepares students for Arizona state electrician licensing exams
- Meets National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) standards
- Offers pathways to apprenticeships with local electrical contractors and unions
Career Paths & Employment Opportunities
- Residential and Commercial Electrician
- Industrial Maintenance Technician
- Electrical Controls or Instrumentation Technician
- Electrical Contractor or Project Estimator (with experience)
Graduates are qualified for employment in construction, utilities, and manufacturing industries throughout Arizona and the Southwest. Many continue into registered apprenticeship programs or pursue journeyman licensing to advance their careers.
Program Length
- Associate of Applied Science in Electrical Technology: Approximately 2 years (65 credits)
- Certificate Programs: 9–12 months (depending on specialization)
Admission Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED
- Basic math and reading proficiency (placement test may be required)
- Interest in electrical systems, tools, and technology
Financial Aid & Student Support
Pima Community College provides several forms of financial and academic support, including:
- Federal Financial Aid (FAFSA)
- Arizona state workforce development grants
- Scholarships for technical and trade students
- Veteran and military education benefits (GI Bill® eligible)
- Career services, résumé workshops, and apprenticeship placement assistance
Location
Located in Tucson, Arizona, Pima Community College serves students throughout Pima County and southern Arizona. The Electrical Technology program is primarily offered at the Downtown Campus, featuring modern electrical labs, simulation equipment, and partnerships with local industry employers for field experience opportunities.
Cost & Career Outlook
Based on publicly reported data for Pima Community College (Tucson, AZ) — 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 Pima 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.