New for fall 2006, South Texas College is offering an Electrician Assistant certificate program. The one year program offers students the opportunity to gain practical hands on experience in electrical work, including proper installation of electrical conduits, appropriate wiring procedures, and troubleshooting electrical circuits.

"This is a wonderful opportunity for those interested to break into a good and growing job market," said Lupe Hernandez, Chair for the Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Program for STC. "There are many construction projects across the Valley and they all need qualified electrical workers to keep up a steady pace. It is also a great stepping stone for those interested in becoming journeymen or master electricians."

In addition to the classroom work, students will be required to complete an 8,000 hour apprenticeship under the supervision of a master electrician. South Texas College will assist students in finding a qualifying apprenticeship with area companies.

Upon completion of classroom work and the 8,000 hours of apprenticeship, students will be qualified to take the state exam to earn their journeyman's license. South Texas College's Partnership for Workforce Training and Continuing Education offers courses to prepare students for the journeyman's and master electrician's exams.

For additional information about the program, please contact the program office at 956-872-6111 or for more information about STC, please visit www.southtexascollege.edu.

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