Electrical Systems Technology

The Electrical Systems Technology curriculum is designed to provide training for those interested in the installation and maintenance of electrical systems found in residential, commercial, and industrial facilities.

What You Will Learn

Training, most of which is hands-on, will include such topics as AC/DC theory, basic wiring practices, programmable logic, controllers, industrial motor controls, the National Electric Code, and other subjects as local needs require. Upon completion of the program, you will be able to:

  • read and interpret prints, diagrams, and schematics that relate to the electrical industry
  • choose wiring methods that would be appropriate to the electrical conditions
  • interpret and apply the local, state, and national codes as they relate to any given electrical conditions; the possible conditions would be residential, commercial, and industrial environments
  • perform energy management calculations
  • install simple and complex electrical control wiring, using both relay logic and programmable logic controllers
  • program programmable logic controllers to perform simple control functions as well as advanced functions such as sub-routines, math functions, and data moves

Graduates of this program should qualify for a variety of careers in the electrical field as an on-the-job trainee or apprentice.  

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Why Choose Central Piedmont

The benefits of studying electrical systems technology at Central Piedmont include affordable tuition, day/evening classes, student support services, dedicated and experienced instructors, the opportunity to gain career-ready skills in two years or fewer, a friendly, diverse campus environment, and paid work-based learning programs available for those who qualify. Our program is approved for workplace learning opportunities while you are in school — Central Piedmont has an entire department dedicated to connecting students with applicable work based learning opportunities such as cooperative education, internships, and/or apprenticeships. Instead of attending “class” in a traditional classroom, during a workplace learning course you work with an employer in a position directly related to electrical systems technology for a semester. You will also have the opportunity to participate in the student Electrical Systems Society. 

Real World Education

At Central Piedmont, your education goes beyond what you learn in class. We offer numerous opportunities for you to enhance your learning — and to make friends, network, and pursue your passions — through clubs and organizations, sports, events and activities, leadership opportunities, job experience, volunteer experiences, visual and performing arts, and even international experiences.

Electrician Careers and Average Salaries

Graduates should qualify for a variety of electrician jobs as an on-the-job trainee or apprentice, assisting in the layout, installation, and maintenance of electrical/electronics systems. Getting into the electrical trade without school is possible, but advancement opportunities will be slow. With training at Central Piedmont, advancement, including raises and additional job responsibilities, will be easier to come by. The electrical trade is a licensure craft, which means you must pass an exam to receive a license. There are few people who can pass the state contractor exam or local journeyman exam without formal training. When entering the trade, students may enter an approved apprenticeship program, and the contact hours earned in this program will count toward the required hours. Employers include local, statewide, and out-of-state electrical contractors, government industrial and manufacturing companies, electrical manufacturers, and wholesale houses. Benefits vary widely within this industry. Careers that are in high demand are commercial electricians, residential electricians, industrial electricians, control electricians, maintenance electricians, estimators, supervisors, and inside and outside sales associates. Visit Central Piedmont’s Career Coach for detailed electrician career opportunities, salary information, and job openings.

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