vcc.ca
ELCO 3001: Construction Electrician Apprenticeship Level 3
Effective date
May 2026
Department
Construction Electrician Appr
School
Trades, Technology and Design
Description
This course provides comprehensive training in the installation and maintenance of complex electrical systems. Students will learn to analyze AC and electronic circuits, interpret technical drawings, and utilize specialized testing equipment. The curriculum covers the installation of power generation systems, transformers, and low-voltage distribution systems. A major focus is placed on practical applications, including the installation and maintenance of AC/DC motors, variable speed drives, and their control systems. The course also establishes a strong foundation in safety protocols through hands-on work with bonding, grounding, fault detection systems, and the installation of branch circuitry.
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:
- Analyze AC and electronic circuits and interpret plans, drawings, and specifications to inform work organization.
- Safely and effectively utilize measuring and testing equipment for installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
- Install and maintain three-phase consumer/supply services, metering equipment, and low-voltage distribution systems.
- Install and maintain bonding, grounding, and ground fault detection systems.
- Install and maintain both AC and DC power generation systems.
- Install low-voltage three-phase and high-voltage transformers.
- Install and maintain AC and DC motors, their starters, controls, and associated drives.
- Install wiring devices for branch circuitry.
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
- Electrical Safety, Tools, and Technical Documentation
- Circuit Analysis: AC and Electronics
- Power Service, Metering, and Distribution Systems
- Grounding, Bonding, and Fault Protection
- AC and DC Power Generation Systems
- Transformer Theory and Installation
- Installation and Maintenance of AC & DC Motors
- Motor Starters, Controls, and Drives
- Branch Circuit Wiring
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.