vcc.ca
ELCO 1001: Construction Electrician Apprenticeship Level 1
Effective date
May 2026
Department
Construction Electrician Appr
School
Trades, Technology and Design
Description
This course provides foundational training for electrical apprentices, establishing a strong basis in electrical theory, safety protocols, and professional practices. Students will analyze DC and AC circuits, apply the principles of electromagnetism, and work with basic electronic components.
Focus is placed on creating a safe work environment through the correct use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), lock-out/tag-out procedures, and the comprehensive application of the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC) from technical drawings and specifications.
Hands-on skills are developed across a wide range of applications, including the installation and maintenance of single-phase services, metering, grounding systems, and protective devices. Learners will install raceways, branch circuitry, lighting controls, motor starters, and low-voltage voice/data/video (VDV) communication systems using industry-standard tools and testing equipment.
Credits
16.5
Year of study
1st Year Post-secondary
Prerequisites
Active STBC Apprentice Identification Number.
Corequisites
None
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Apply fundamental electrical theory and circuit concepts to analyze and interpret DC, AC, and electronic circuits, including the principles of electromagnetism.
- Adhere to and promote a culture of safety by consistently using personal protective equipment (PPE), executing lock-out and tag-out procedures, and maintaining a safe work environment in accordance with industry standards.
- Install, test, and maintain electrical systems and components, including raceways, conductors, enclosures, and single-phase consumer/supply services and metering equipment, using appropriate tools and testing equipment.
- Interpret and apply the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC) along with plans, drawings, and specifications to effectively organize and execute electrical installations.
- Install and maintain bonding, grounding, and protection systems, including ground fault, arc fault, and surge protection devices, to ensure system safety and reliability.
- Install and maintain branch circuitry and associated devices, encompassing the installation of luminaires, wiring devices, and various lighting controls.
- Install, maintain, and troubleshoot motor starters and controls to ensure proper operation and functionality of electrical motors.
- Install and service communication and low-voltage distribution systems, including voice/data/video (VDV) infrastructure and related distribution equipment.
- Employ effective communication and mentoring techniques in the workplace.
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
Methods of assessment may include a challenge exam, submission of a product or portfolio for review, or a practical demonstration. Please contact the Department for details.
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 188
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 62
Practicum, Self-Paced, Individual Learning: 50
Total Hours: 300
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 62
Practicum, Self-Paced, Individual Learning: 50
Total Hours: 300
Instructional Strategies
A combination of lecture, demonstration, simulations, problem solving, practical activities and reflective discussion will be used throughout this course.
Grading System
Percentages-STBC
Passing grade
70
Evaluation Plan
|
Type |
Percentage |
Assessment activity |
|
Participation |
10 |
|
|
Assignments |
30 |
|
|
Quizzes/Tests |
30 |
|
|
Final Exam |
30 |
|
Course topics
- Workplace Safety, Professional Practices, and the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC)
- Fundamentals of Electrical Circuits and Electromagnetism
- Service, Metering, and Distribution
- Grounding, Bonding, and System Protection
- Raceways, Enclosures, and Conductors
- Branch Circuitry and Wiring Devices
- Luminaires and Lighting Controls
- Motor Starters and Control Systems
- Communication and Data Systems
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/. - To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.