CAREER DEVELOPMENT SERVICES
Electrician Fundamentals
Tuition-Free Electrician Fundamentals Training in San Jose | 5-Week Program
Hands-on training to jumpstart a career in electrical work.
Launch a stable, well-paying career with industry certifications and direct employer connections.
Our no-cost, 5-week Electrician Fundamentals Program provides hands-on training and prepares you for in-demand electrical and construction roles in Silicon Valley.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
✓ 160 hours of free training
✓ Industry certifications included (OSHA 10, NCCER, CPR/First Aid)
✓ Job placement support from ABC NorCal
✓ No prior experience required
What You’ll Learn:
Our accelerated program combines classroom instruction with hands-on practice to prepare you for entry-level electrical and construction roles:
Construction Fundamentals (80 hours)
- Construction math, tools, safety
- Blueprint reading and measurement
- Electrical awareness and installation
- OSHA standards and workplace safety
- Leadership and workplace readiness
Electrical Training (80 hours)
- Electrical theory and awareness
- Installation techniques and procedures
- Hands-on practice with electrical tools and equipment
- Rigging techniques and safety protocols
Career Readiness
- Workplace professionalism
- Resume building and interview skills
- Sexual harassment and substance abuse awareness
Certifications Earned:
Graduate job-ready with industry-recognized credentials:
- OSHA 10
- NCCER Construction Core
- CPR/First Aid
- ABC NorCal Pre-Apprenticeship
- CA Electrical Trainee Card
After Graduation
Job Placement Support:
Graduates receive job placement support from ABC NorCal and are prepared to step into entry-level roles in the construction and electrical trades.
Typical Entry-Level Roles:
- Electrical Trainee
- Construction Laborer
- Apprentice Electrician
Course Details
Schedule: Monday–Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Duration: 5 weeks
Location: Goodwill of Silicon Valley, 1600 Technology Drive, San Jose
Cost: Free!
Upcoming Sessions:
Spring 2026: April 20 – May 22
Apply by April 17 | Orientation: April 13–17
Summer 2026: July 6 – August 7
Apply by June 5 | Orientation: June 29–July 2
Fall 2026: September 28 – October 30
Apply by August 28 | Orientation: September 21–25
This program is in high demand, and space is limited. Apply early to secure your spot.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for anyone ready to start a skilled trade career, including:
- People seeking stable, well-paying work
- Career changers
- Those unemployed or underemployed
- Military veterans
- Second-chance job seekers
Basic Requirements:
Our mission is to help individuals who currently face barriers to employment launch a rewarding new career. To ensure every participant has the best possible chance of reaching graduation and securing a job, you must meet the following criteria to be considered for enrollment:
- Must be a resident of Santa Clara County*
- Must be 18 years old or older
- Currently unemployed or underemployed (e.g. earning less than $52,000/year)
- Able to learn and communicate effectively in English**
- Have reliable transportation
- Authorized to work in the U.S.
- Pass pre-assessment in basic computer literacy, math skills & measurements
- Have a High School Diploma or GED (preferred but not required)
- In good physical health; ability to stand for 6-8 hours and lift up to 50 lbs
- Availability to attend Mandatory Orientation prior to session start date
- Availability to attend Mandatory Career Readiness Workshops
- Able to arrive on time at, and actively participate in, all class sessions and activities
- In a stable living situation (a safe, consistent place to stay)
- Have a solid plan in place for caregiving responsibilities
- If justice-impacted: not currently awaiting trial or sentencing for a charge that could result in incarceration
- Committed to securing employment in the field in which you receive training
*We will consider residents of adjacent counties (San Benito, San Mateo, Alameda, and Santa Cruz) for enrollment on a space-available basis and provided other requirements are met.
**All of our courses are taught exclusively in English, and unfortunately, we don’t have the capacity to provide translation for those who cannot learn and communicate in English.
Not sure if you qualify?
If you’re facing challenges in any of these areas or have questions about your specific situation, please reach out to us via email: cte@goodwillsv.org. Our team is here to talk through your options and may be able to connect you with resources to help you get ready for a future session.
