Western Electrical Contractors Association (WECA)
Overview
Established in 1929, Western Electrical Contractors Association (WECA), an NCCRS member since October 2018, is an independent electrical contractors’ association that provides innovative training and apprenticeship programs, critical business services, governmental advocacy, and responsive customer support to its members, students, and the electrical and low voltage industries in California.
Students and admissions representatives please note: NCCRS does not provide transcripts. Transcript requests and inquiries should be directed to the organization offering the courses, examinations or apprenticeship. See the Source of Official Student Records in the sidebar near the top right side of this page.
Source of Official Student Records
Descriptions and credit recommendations for all evaluated learning experiences
5 years, includes 800 hours of classroom instruction and 8,000 hours of field experience.
September 2013 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the program, students will be able to: recall and apply the fundamental laws of electrical circuit theory to solve problems and analyze series, parallel, and combination circuits; construct, simulate and analyze electrical circuits and systems; apply the National Electric Code (NEC) to basic residential and commercial electrical installation projects; design and install electrical power and lighting branch circuits, using necessary National Electrical Code (NEC) calculations, lighting controls, and lamp/fixture/equipment information; recall and utilize conduit bending techniques and conductor fill calculations; Identify and apply safety, operation, and maintenance practices for scissor and boom lifts; discuss and analyze requirements for residential and commercial branch circuits, feeders, and services, using load, parallel conductor, grounding, derating, and motor size calculations; develop proficiency in using NEC tables, articles, measurements, and terminology related to conductor properties; and apply it to simulated field scenarios; apply conduit bending techniques, NEC code, and best practices to size equipment and conductors for the installation of electric motors; discuss, differentiate and explain advanced electrical theory principles, including peak voltage, RMS voltage, inductance, impedance, capacitance, reactive power, voltage drop, true power, apparent power, VARs, waveforms, phase angle, R-L parallel circuits, and R-C Parallel circuits; apply appropriate electrical theory, engineering techniques and calculations to solve advanced electrical circuit problems; construct, simulate, measure, test, and analyze advanced electrical circuits; read, interpret, and examine a complete set of construction drawings, in combination with other construction documents (i.e. specifications, submittals, RFI’s, change orders, and job logs), ensuring compliance with the National Electrical Code; Use construction documentation to install a simulated electrical system in a large commercial project; Demonstrate that all documents, codes, and drawing sections have been cross-referenced to avoid construction errors; Recall and use electrical fundamentals, quantities, the National Electrical Code, NFPA 70E and OSHA safety standards, and best practices to design and evaluate motor controls and circuits, and electrical distribution systems within building premises; define and recall the attributes and uses of switchgear, transformers, solenoids, contactors, relays, timers, motors, and motor starters, and evaluate systems, equipment, and circuits using measurement tools and troubleshooting techniques; interpret basic ladder and wiring diagrams and reference manufacturer data sheets to install basic two-wire and three-wire control circuitry; explain the theory and methods used for motor starting and motor braking control; recognize and contrast the connecting schemes for transformers, motors, manual control devices, electromagnetic control devices and electronic control devices; interpret and apply advanced control diagrams to install control circuitry for motor starting and motor stopping applications; recall and explain the function and components of Programming Logic Controls (PLCs) and Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), applying concepts by programming, simulating, and operating a PLC and a VFD; Evaluate solid-state and electro-mechanical control device functionality by constructing basic electronic circuits; Apply the National Electrical Code (NEC) to analyze and evaluate photovoltaic (PV) installations; identify the sections and major topics included in the California Certification Exam, and explain the proper procedures for taking the exam; demonstrate knowledge of electrical fundamentals, principles, formulas, calculations and code interpretations relevant to the California General Electrical Certification Exam; demonstrate proficiency using the practice of subject indexing to quickly and accurately locate the National Electrical Code (NEC) article related to any given electrical installation question; define a foreman’s primary job and safety-related responsibilities and demonstrate best practices in project estimation and preparation of jobsite documentation; demonstrate communication, conflict resolution, and motivational techniques used in leadership positions; and explain the concepts and theory behind security and fire alarm systems.
Instruction is offered via classroom and includes supplemental readings, quizzes, homework, lab required interaction with instructor, and final exams. Major topics include: Electrical Safety; PPE; First Aid and CPR; Harassment Prevention; Basic Electrical Theory; Electrical Fundamentals; Math; Electrical Engineering Calculations; DC Systems; AC Systems; Circuit Wiring Schemes; Single-phase Systems; Three-phase Systems; Tools and Electrical Test Equipment; Material Handling; Electrical Symbols and Schematics; Electrical Code Navigation; Electrical Raceways; Electrical Device Layout; Electrical Installation Methods; Power Distribution Systems; Transformers; Generation and Power Supplies; Electrical Distribution Circuits; Single-phase Equipment; Three-phase Equipment; Electromechanical Devices, Solid-State Sensors; Coordinating Conductor Ampacity; Electrical Blueprints; Construction Documentation; Electrical Control Diagrams; Motor Starting and Stopping Methods; Motor Speed Control Logic, Variable Frequency Motor Drives; Programmable Logic Controllers; System Control; Automation and Energy Management; Basic Electronics: Solar Energy Introduction; Preventative/Predictive Maintenance; Electrical Code Interpretation; Specialty Systems; Fire Alarm Systems; Foremanship; Communication; and Personal Development.
In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 66 semester hours in Electrical Construction and Maintenance, distributed as follows: 3 semester hours in Introduction to Electrical Systems, 3 semester hours in DC systems, 3 semester hours in AC Systems, 3 semester hours in Introduction to Industrial Safety, 6 semester hours in Technical Math, 4 semester hours in Electric Codes, 3 semester hours in Blueprint Reading, 6 semester hours in Basic Electrical Troubleshooting and Maintenance, 3 semester hours in Motors and Controllers, 3 semester hours in Introduction to Electronics, 3 semester hours in Basic Electronic Troubleshooting and Maintenance, 2 semester hour in Construction Management, 3 semester hours in High Voltage Systems, 3 semester hours in Circuit Logic, 3 semester hours in Programmable Controllers, 3 semester hours in Solid State Devices, 3 semester hours in Advanced Industrial Safety, 3 semester hours in Advanced Electrical Troubleshooting and Maintenance, 3 semester hours in Advanced Electronic Troubleshooting and Maintenance, 1 semester hours in Introduction to Supervision, and 2 semester hours in Introduction to Project Planning (10/18). NOTE: Credit shall only be awarded upon full completion of the apprenticeship program.
640 hours of classroom instruction and 8,000 hours of field experience (over 4 years).
January 2021 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the program, students will be able to: Recall and apply the fundamental laws of electrical circuit theory to solve problems and analyze series, parallel, and combination circuits; Construct, simulate and analyze electrical circuits and systems; Apply the National Electric Code (NEC) to basic residential and commercial electrical installation projects; Design and install electrical power and lighting branch circuits, using necessary National Electrical Code (NEC) calculations, lighting controls, and lamp/fixture/equipment information; Recall and utilize conduit bending techniques and conductor fill calculations; Identify and apply safety, operation, and maintenance practices for scissor and boom lifts; Discuss and analyze requirements for residential and commercial branch circuits, feeders, and services, using load, parallel conductor, grounding, derating, and motor size calculations; Develop proficiency in using NEC tables, articles, measurements, and terminology related to conductor properties; and apply it to simulated field scenarios; Apply conduit bending techniques, NEC code, and best practices to size equipment and conductors for the installation of electric motors; Discuss, differentiate and explain advanced electrical theory principles, including peak voltage, RMS voltage, inductance, impedance, capacitance, reactive power, voltage drop, true power, apparent power, VARs, waveforms, phase angle, R-L parallel circuits, and R-C Parallel circuits; Apply appropriate electrical theory, engineering techniques and calculations to solve advanced electrical circuit problems; Construct, simulate, measure, test, and analyze advanced electrical circuits; Read, interpret, and examine a complete set of construction drawings, in combination with other construction documents (i.e. specifications, submittals, RFI’s, change orders, and job logs), ensuring compliance with the National Electrical Code; Use construction documentation to install a simulated electrical system in a large commercial project; Demonstrate that all documents, codes, and drawing sections have been cross-referenced to avoid construction errors; Recall and use electrical fundamentals, quantities, the National Electrical Code, NFPA 70E and OSHA safety standards, and best practices to design and evaluate motor controls and circuits, and electrical distribution systems within building premises; Define and recall the attributes and uses of switchgear, transformers, solenoids, contactors, relays, timers, motors, and motor starters, and evaluate systems, equipment, and circuits using measurement tools and troubleshooting techniques; Interpret basic ladder and wiring diagrams and reference manufacturer data sheets to install basic two-wire and three-wire control circuitry; Explain the theory and methods used for motor starting and motor braking control; Recognize and contrast the connecting schemes for transformers, motors, manual control devices, electromagnetic control devices and electronic control devices; Interpret and apply advanced control diagrams to install control circuitry for motor starting and motor stopping applications; Recall and explain the function and components of Programming Logic Controls (PLCs) and Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), applying concepts by programming, simulating, and operating a PLC and a VFD; Evaluate solid-state and electro-mechanical control device functionality by constructing basic electronic circuits; Apply the National Electrical Code (NEC) to analyze and evaluate photovoltaic (PV) installations.
Instruction is offered via classroom and includes supplemental readings, quizzes, homework, lab required interaction with instructor, and final exams. Major topics include: Electrical Safety; PPE; First Aid & CPR; Harassment Prevention; Basic Electrical Theory; Electrical Fundamentals; Math; Electrical Engineering Calculations; DC Systems; AC Systems; Circuit Wiring Schemes; Single-phase Systems; Three-phase Systems; Tools and Electrical Test Equipment; Material Handling; Electrical Symbols and Schematics; Electrical Code Navigation; Electrical Raceways; Electrical Device Layout; Electrical Installation Methods; Power Distribution Systems; Transformers; Generation and Power Supplies; Electrical Distribution Circuits; Single-phase Equipment; Three-phase Equipment; Electromechanical Devices, Solid-State Sensors; Coordinating Conductor Ampacity; Electrical Blueprints; Construction Documentation; Electrical Control Diagrams; Motor Starting and Stopping Methods; Motor Speed Control Logic, Variable Frequency Motor Drives; Programmable Logic Controllers; System Control; Automation and Energy Management; Basic Electronics: Solar Energy Introduction; Preventative/Predictive Maintenance; Electrical Code Interpretation; Specialty Systems; Fire Alarm Systems.
In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 61 semester hours in Electrical Construction and Maintenance, distributed as follows: 3 semester hours in Introduction to Electrical Systems, 3 semester hours in DC systems, 3 semester hours in AC Systems, 3 semester hours in Introduction to Industrial Safety, 6 semester hours in Technical Math, 4 semester hours in Electric Codes, 3 semester hours in Blueprint Reading, 6 semester hours in Basic Electrical Troubleshooting and Maintenance, 3 semester hours in Motors and Controllers, 3 semester hours in Introduction to Electronics, 3 semester hours in Basic Electronic Troubleshooting and Maintenance, 3 semester hours in High Voltage Systems, 3 semester hours in Circuit Logic, 3 semester hours in Programmable Controllers, 3 semester hours in Solid State Devices, 3 semester hours in Advanced Industrial Safety, 3 semester hours in Advanced Electrical Troubleshooting and Maintenance, 3 semester hours in Advanced Electronic Troubleshooting and Maintenance (1/21). NOTE: Credit should only be awarded upon full completion of the apprenticeship program.
3 years, includes 480 hours of classroom instruction, 133 lab hours, and 4,800 hours of supervised field experience.
June 2021 - Present.
Low Voltage Fundamentals: Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: recall and apply construction safety codes and standards to minimize accidents and properly aid a person injured in a work environment; use electrical theory and engineering calculations to predict and explain changes in circuit variables with different types of circuits; demonstrate proficiency in recalling procedures for navigating the National Electric Code, correctly differentiating between codes and standards, and identifying the roles of various regulatory organizations; demonstrate the ability to apply networking theory and knowledge of hardware to create a closed network; demonstrate the ability to apply telephone theory and knowledge of system components to install a commercial building telephone system; and recall the sections, common symbols, and types of drawings to determine material types and quantities in a given project. Structured Cabling Systems: students will be able to: explain theoretical concepts governing signal theory and accurately identify and install all components to a structured cabling system using copper, optical fiber, and wireless transmission media; successfully test installation of datacom systems via testing equipment (e.g. OTDR, TDR, wire map tester, pass/fail test, etc.) and recall processes for commissioning a system; recall and apply practices for grounding and bonding; and demonstrate safety procedures and proper use of aerial work platform equipment. Fire Alarm Systems: students will be able to: read, interpret, and examine a complete set of electronic construction drawings, in combination with other construction documents (i.e., specifications, submittals, RFIs, change orders, and job logs), ensuring compliance with the National Electrical Code and other relevant regulating agencies; perform a code/standard-compliant installation for both conventional and addressable fire alarm systems, including troubleshooting and programming; and recall and apply common electrical terms, units, and formulas of electronics theory to the practical integration of electronic sensors and relays, including mechanical and non-mechanical devices, in various control circuit applications. Specialty Systems: students will be able to: identify and install the components of various specialty systems, including paging and mass notification, intrusion, access control, CCTV, Sound Reinforcement, and A/V systems; design and create an estimate for specialty system installations using electronic construction and project management software; and recall and apply relevant theory and regulations related to each specialty system. Comprehensive Low Voltage Application: students will be able to: develop personal management skills and apply them effectively to mock workplace scenarios; develop leadership skills and apply them to hypothetical workplace scenarios; recall tools and methodologies used by construction foremen and demonstrate their effective execution; and demonstrate the execution of a complete project, including layout, estimating, and installation for several Low Voltage systems through rigorous end-of-program performance-based assessments.
Instruction is offered via classroom and includes supplemental readings, quizzes, homework, lab required interaction with the instructor, and final competency exams. Major topics include (classroom): Safety; DC and AC Theory; Codes and Standards; Network Systems and Computer Literacy; Telephone Systems; Construction Drawings; Structured Cabling; Aerial Work Platforms; Fire Alarm Systems; Low Voltage Code; Specialty Systems; Personal Development; Leadership Skills; Foremanship; and Comprehensive System Installation; (supervised field experience): 4,800 hours of supervised field experience.
In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 30 semester hours distributed as follows: 18 semester hours in Building Electrical Systems; 6 semester hours in Construction or Personnel Management; and 6 semester hours in Construction, Construction Internship, or Co-op experience in Construction (6/21). NOTE: Credit shall only be awarded upon full completion of the apprenticeship program.
3 years, includes 480 hours of classroom instruction and 4,800 hours of field experience.
September 2013 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the program, students will be able to: recall and apply the fundamental laws of electrical circuit theory to solve problems and analyze series, parallel, and combination circuits; construct, simulate and analyze electrical circuits and systems; apply the National Electric Code (NEC) to basic residential and commercial electrical installation projects; design and install electrical power and lighting branch circuits, using necessary National Electrical Code (NEC) calculations, lighting controls, and lamp/fixture/equipment information; recall and utilize conduit bending techniques and conductor fill calculations; identify and apply safety, operation, and maintenance practices for scissor and boom lifts; discuss and analyze requirements for residential and commercial branch circuits, feeders, and services, using load, parallel conductor, grounding, derating, and motor size calculations; develop proficiency in using NEC tables, articles, measurements, and terminology related to conductor properties; and apply it to simulated field scenarios; apply conduit bending techniques, NEC code, and best practices to size equipment and conductors for the installation of electric motors; discuss, differentiate and explain advanced electrical theory principles, including peak voltage, RMS voltage, inductance, impedance, capacitance, reactive power, voltage drop, true power, apparent power, VARs, waveforms, phase angle, R-L parallel circuits, and R-C Parallel circuits; apply appropriate electrical theory, engineering techniques and calculations to solve advanced electrical circuit problems; construct, simulate, measure, test, and analyze advanced electrical circuits; identify the sections and major topics included in the California Certification Exam, and explain the proper procedures for taking the exam; demonstrate knowledge of electrical fundamentals, principles, formulas, calculations and code interpretations relevant to the California General Electrical Certification Exam; demonstrate proficiency using the practice of subject indexing to quickly and accurately locate the National Electrical Code (NEC) article related to any given electrical installation question; define a foreman’s primary job and safety-related responsibilities and demonstrate best practices in project estimation and preparation of jobsite documentation; demonstrate communication, conflict resolution, and motivational techniques used in leadership positions; and explain the concepts and theory behind security and fire alarm systems.
Instruction is offered via classroom and includes supplemental readings, quizzes, homework, lab required interaction with instructor, and final exams. Major topics include: Electrical Safety; PPE; First Aid and CPR; Harassment Prevention; Basic Electrical Theory; Electrical Fundamentals; Math; Electrical Engineering Calculations; DC Systems; AC Systems; Circuit Wiring Schemes; Single-phase Systems; Three-phase Systems; Tools and Electrical Test Equipment; Material Handling; Electrical Symbols; Basic Electrical Drawings; Electrical Code Navigation; Residential Energy Code; Electrical Raceways; Electrical Device Layout; Electrical Installation Methods; Power Distribution Systems; Transformers; Generation and Power Supplies; Electrical Distribution Circuits; Single-phase Equipment; Three-phase Equipment; Basic Lighting Control; Electrical Code Interpretation; Specialty Systems; Fire Alarm Systems; Foremanship; Communication; and Personal Development.
In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 40 semester hours in Electrical Construction and Maintenance, distributed as follows: 3 semester hours in Introduction to Electrical Systems, 3 semester hours in DC systems, 3 semester hours in AC Systems, 3 semester hours in Introduction to Industrial Safety, 6 semester hours in Technical Math, 2 semester hours in Electric Codes, 1 semester hour in Introduction to Project Planning, 3 semester hours in Blueprint Reading, 6 semester hours in Basic Electrical Troubleshooting and Maintenance, 3 semester hours in Motors and Controllers, 3 semester hours in Introduction to Electronics, 3 semester hours in Basic Electronic Troubleshooting and Maintenance, and 1 semester hour in Construction Management (10/18). NOTE: Credit shall only be awarded upon full completion of the apprenticeship program.
