Inside Wiremen

DSC_0362Inside Wiremen install conduit, electrical wiring, fixtures, and electrical apparatus inside commercial buildings and in a multitude of industrial settings. Major duties for Inside Wiremen include:

  • Planning and initiating projects
  • Establishing temporary power during construction
  • Establishing grounding systems
  • Installing service to buildings and other structures
  • Establishing power distribution within a project
  • Planning and installing raceway systems
  • Installing new wiring and repairing old wiring
  • Providing power and controls to motors, HVAC and other equipment
  • Installing receptacles, lighting systems and fixtures
  • Troubleshooting and repairing electrical systems
  • Installing and repairing traffic signals, outdoor lighting and outdoor power feeders
  • Installing fire alarm systems

In performing these duties, Inside Wiremen must use many different kinds of tools, ranging from simple one and two-hand tools (such as pliers, screwdrivers, and cable-cutters) to power assisted tools like electric drills and cable pullers. They occasionally operate heavy equipment such as trenchers and aerial lifts.

Over the course of the five-year Inside Wiremen apprenticeship program, apprentices must acquire a wealth of technical knowledge. A recent job analysis identified 83 specific knowledge areas that are important for successful job performance. A few of the most important ones are knowledge of:

  • The national electrical code
  • How to work with energized circuits
  • Blueprints (including symbols used)
  • Electrical schematic diagrams
  • State and local electrical codes
  • First aid
  • Hazardous materials
  • Specific job safety rules

Some of the most important skills to be learned are:

  • CPR
  • Reading a wire table to determine conductor size required
  • Terminating aluminum or copper cable
  • Terminating high voltage cable
  • Splicing high voltage cable

Contact Northern Nevada Electrical Training Center to learn more about becoming an Inside Wiremen.